Riboflavin

So I bought a graphite/engraved 'Type R' style weighted shift knob from TWM Performance a few weeks ago, and thought I'd post a couple pics.

Finished product:


I weighed the new shift knob against the OEM 6-spd knob, and found the OEM weighs 140 grams, while the weighted TWM knob weighs 400 grams.



The only real problem with installing aftermarket shift knobs on the TL is finding a way to keep the shift boot from flopping around, since there are clips underneath the OEM knob to keep it on. Luckily I happen to run a 3D printing lab at work (I'm a mechanical engineer), so I was able to design and 3D print a small insert to sit inside of the top ring of the shift boot to keep it centered on the threads, keeping it from flopping laterally. It keeps itself up due to a bend in the threaded rod just underneath the silver ring, so it also doesn't fall down due to not being clipped to the knob.



3D printed insert


Room for extra floppage without the OEM knob


Part inserted, floppage removed.


Installed close-up

So far, I love the feel of the shifting, definitely feels easier to shift into 2nd and 3rd. I also like the sort-of matte graphite finish, since it blends in with the other greys and blacks of the interior and center console really well.

I'm just waiting until the middle of August when I accidentally burn a 6-spd shift pattern in the middle of my right hand...

justnspace

iTrader: (1)

awesome!!

i agree with you, the graphite color looks AWESOME!!!!!!

TacoBello

That insert gets an A++++ from me. Good job on that. It's nice to see a well thought out solution. Congrats!

JM2010 SH-AWD

Looks great. And I still really like the looks of our 4G interiors (especially with 6MT).

(But of course, those extra grams of weight will cost you dearly in 0-60 launches).

Riboflavin

Yep, that's why I just toss my shoes out of the window before I launch... expensive, but worth it.

Blaze9

Wow that look beautiful dude, much better than the chrome finish on the stock. Awesome choice.

zmt

Nice! Do you have an stl file for those of us with printers that might want to change knobs in the future?

Riboflavin

Yeah, I can do that. It's on my work computer, so I'll upload it on Monday.

jefflikesbagels

Awesome work man. What material did you print it in? I'd imagine PLA is good enough unless you live in hotter climates like Florida. PETG is a pretty awesome material, its higher melting temperature should help withstand the summer heat a lot better.

Riboflavin

Thanks, it's actually a blend of 90% polycarbonate and 10% elastic material from a high-end multi-jet type 3D printer (3D Systems 5500X), not a typical FDM style printer with plastic spools.

And I've done tests with printed prototypes using the same materials at 265 F with no problems, so it'll hold up pretty well. Besides, if the inside of my car hits 265 F, I've got bigger problems lmao.

Rancher2005

That first photo is sharp. Saw the Mettler Toledo and figured you would be up to some engineering. AQE here in north NJ with a '10 SH-AWD M/T as well.

Riboflavin

I attached a .zip file with the .stl and an IGES file if anyone needs to regenerate the .stl for themselves.

Thanks! Nice, it's weird how not-uncommon 4G 6MT TLs are up here... I missed out on buying like 3 of them from local dealerships before I found mine.

alxhastngs

I got one of these knobs last year and had a similar problem, was looking into engineering something along the lines of what you did, but found an acceptable solution from TWM.

They make a retainer insert that threads into the bottom of the knob and holds the boot up. It replaces the factory one.

It involves taking apart the center console area to access the bottom of the boot
​
Here is the part: https://www.twmperformance.com/boot-retainers/boot-retainer

I can post a picture of the finished result tomorrow when I get home.

Riboflavin

Wow, nice! I didn't even know they made those, especially not for a 4G TL. Good to know.

SAYPHONSCOTT

Here's mines but with a Civic Type R knob.

alxhastngs

As promised, here is mine with the TWM adapter: