So obvioulsy this is hands down the single most popular shift **** on the forum, and I LOVE how they look, but I have a couple of questions before I order a freakin' $100+ shift ****.

1. I understand how the Whalen attaches, but nobody ever seems to talk about the **** spinning. Does it? I don't quite see how it couldn't since it's not glued on or screwed on or anything.

2. How on Earth does a shift **** make shifting so much better? I gotta say, the R56 6 speed is buttery smooth, and shifts like a dream. How does a measly shift **** improve this?

3. Are any of the finishes less prone to heat/cold? I know the pool ***** are, but I want metal.

Thanks in advance for any responses!!!

 

Same way the OEM one does, there is a slotted keyway in the top of the shifter.

It's been a few years since physics calss, but I think it's due to the mass, the large mass at end of the fulcrum dampenss small vibrations smoothing the motion. Then again I could be wrong.

 

On the R53 there is the slotted keyway so the **** doesn't spin. I don't know about the 07s. I have an 8ball **** and I think gnatster's theory may be right. It feels so much better than the OEM ****. Your right, $100.00 is a lot of money for a **** but Doug's wokmanship is worth it.

 

1. The Whalen shift ball sits a bit lower than the original.
2. The weight of the ball makes shiftng throws easier.

I have not heard a single complaint about hot/cold on any of the metal shifters from Doug and if there was a problem, I am certain he would quickly address it.

 

3) All the metal is the same and I'm sure there are no differences in heat from finish to finish. If you're worried about the heat and cold, all you have to do is slip it off and take it with you on extreme days.

I was very skeptical of paying so much money for a shift ****. However, if you think about it, it's one of the mods that you will experience the most when driving your car. It is one of my favorite mods yet.

 

Actually, it only sits lower when installed on a BMW. On a MINI, it actually sits about 1/2" HIGHER than stock.
(Yes, I know. Technically, a MINI is a BMW; but not for our purposes in this case. )

 

Oops...

Anyway I was right about the rest.

This is probably my next purchase.

 

It sits 1/2" higher than stock??? Thats odd I never noticed that on the ones Ive seen. Well, anyway, I'm probably going to be contacting you soon to purchase one.

But, I am curious about one thing, is it very simple to reinstall the stock **** in case I ever want to return things to an OEM look?

 

Stock one just slides on. This I know for sure as I have changed my shift boots. Shold be as simple as taking one off and putting the other on.

 

Daflake is correct; the stock one just slides right on and snaps into place.

The only thing to be aware of is the fact that stock BMW and MINI ***** tend to "loosen up" a bit (or maybe a LOT) when installed and removed several times.
The plastic snaps don't keep their "set" real well.

 

That is because they are CHEAP!

 

Good to know, and glad to see the you checking out my thread Doug!

So do your ***** loosen up at all if they are removed and re-installed on a regular basis, like dickdavid suggested on super hot/cold days?

Also, is it possible to order one of the ***** that have been custom designed and are in your gallery, or do you scrap the plans after the **** has been manufactured?

 

The locking mechanism on the **** is like an air hose quick disconnect. I don't see how they can become loose after several removal/installs. Living in the heat of Las Vegas I almost always remove mine for the day after arriving at work.

 

My attachment mechanism is bullet-proof. Everything is stainless steel, and should last forever.

I save all of the designs that I've engraved. There have only been two or three designs that the customers asked me to keep exclusive.

 

NICE!!! PM sent

 

I've had my OEM **** off three times. First to install OEM chrome bezel. Second, custom blue leather e-brake and shifter boots. Third my new Checkered Whalen. The third time is the charm!
The first time I pulled off the OEM **** it was a real hard pull. It seemed to be easier the second and third times.
I've only had the Whalen a week. It is a beautifully crafted polished ball with an Aesthetic Creations checkered with mini wings logo inlay. A great collaboration of artists! It do not think it felt hotter to the touch than the OEM **** when I was out in the heat last week. I'll see about it in the WI winter, burrrr. Although I don't drive the MCS when it's really nasty out (PT Cruiser has heated seats).
The shifting is smoother. It looks fantastic. It feels so right in the car and my hand. I don't regret a single penny spent for this ****. Thanks again Doug!

 

I wouldn't trade my Whalen for anything! I love it. But I can say, left in the sun for long periods, it does get H.O.T. Ouchie!

I haven't yet become so weiry of frying my hand that I've actually taken the **** off and taken it with me, but I am considering getting a little sock to cover it when I'm out of the car.

Uhhh, Doug...I need a custom sockie please!

 

I bet an iPod sock would fit perfectly! Plus you could color match it to your interior! (well, for the most part)

 

Custom sockie?? That's w-

No, what I mean to say is that I don't work with fabrics.
I've seen a few posts from folks who have made their own, though.
Maybe do a search for "**** cozies".

 

Outmotoring has a cool option:

 

haha that cover is kind of cool looking. As I was walking into work carrying my Whalen I got thinking, if I needed to use a cane it would be cool to take the shifter off and use it on a cane shaft. I know... crazy random thoughts that go through my head.

 

Cane **** - great idea! OH, so dapper.
iPod sock - unfortunetly the only one I have has a SCION badge on it (it was free as a friend of mine is a Scion sales manager, what can I say!). I have no iPod so at least it would have a purpose. Keep that Whalen cool...or warm... or cool...

 

Someone at the Dragon was trying to talk Tüls into putting his Whalen on a Carbon Fiber shaft to use as a cane

 

One idea...

http://www.newministuff.com/new/shop...uctshow&id=317

 

^^^^^^^^ you're such a doll, Doug.

I'm ordering one right now.