Originally posted by s1ngle
how does it affect shifting? is the movement smoother, or do the bushings just strengthen the shifting linkage and prevent future breakage?
Both, I think.
The bushings are in two pieces, each replacing one factory part. I did the front one, where the rods reach the tranny, first. Just did the rear one, where the shifter comes down through the floorpan, this last weekend.
The urethane used in these parts is noticeably softer than that used in suspension bushings. You can bend and flex it easily in your hands.
These do change the dynamics of the shifter, though, because they are stiffer than the OEM rubber. I can feel subtle movements of synchro engagement now that were previously soaked up in the bushings. Feels smoother, too, but the change is not radical. I found the improvement in feel and handling to be much greater with the poly suspension parts.
Note that if you install only half the set, odd things may happen. I drove for two weeks with urethane in front, factory rubber in back, and when I got the tach over 7K, the shifter would buzz very loudly. Now that the rear bushing is also urethane, that is gone.
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