Hey Guys,
This weekend I decided to do my second modification to my SWP 2011 WRX Hatch.
The reason that I wanted to do a short throw was solely because I though the throw was a little long and mushy compared to my Audi S4 that I just sold prior to this car.
I'll rate the install a 5 out of 10. Mainly because of the difficulty of the rear bushing removal and installation.
Total time was about an 1-1/2 hours from start to finish. (using floor jack & stands)
If this works out well for you, check out my 2011 WRX build thread over
here! I have many more install threads...
Before picture of the stock shifter
Lift the e-brake and remove the cover to reveal the phillips screw holding the rear portion of the console.
Remove the 2 phillips / 10mm screws in the arm rest compartment.
Remove the rear section of the console then gently lift the rear of the front section of the console. When it unclips, gently pull back the front console to separate it from the lower dashboard. No screws on the front section.
Remove the two white plastic screws and reveal the stock shifter.
You must remove the snap-ring before you proceed. Use http://www.amazon.com/Snap-Circlip--Clip-Retaining-Pliers/dp/B003R6K1BC/ref=sr_1_9?s=power-hand-tools&ie=UTF8&qid=1315752125&sr=1-9 tool if you want to do it properly.
Once you remove the snap ring, remove the 12mm bold connecting the stock shifter to the shift linkage. From there, all you need is to gently pull the shifter up and release it from the cup below the snap ring.
The stock VS the Kartboy
Remove the plastic grease bushings and transfer them to the new shifter.
Take a break and wash your hands off of the grease. Haha, not really but I did because my car has 200 miles on it and the grease that they use stinks so I didn't want to replace my new car scent with whatever that smell is.