Cable vs. shaft gearchange

[witko999]

Hello.

I'm planning on modifying the gear linkage on my mid engined (Alfa boxer) Clan Clover. It currently uses a fairly crude solid shaft mounted under the engine and gearbox which directly transmits the movement from the gearstick. I am wanting to use either a cable set up (a la z-cars and such) or a set up involving sliding shafts and ball joints (as I believe Ultimas have). I would like to see any pics or advice (pro's/cons) on either of these set ups, particularly the cable set up, as I don't think I fully understand how these work, having never observed one in the flesh.

Thanks in advance.

[350matt]

Cable shifts just work a push pull with a linkage to transmit the side to side ( across the gate action into fore-aft down the cable) usually two cables are required, one for into gear the other for side to side.

VW golfs use them


Matt

[Sam_68]

If you are even thinking about a cable shift in a mid-engined car, drive a Series 1 Elise. The gearchange is seriously awful. Then ask yourself 'do I think I'll be able to make a better job of it than Lotus?'

I had a Raffo Tipo 12 with a mid mounted Alfa Boxer engine which used a fairly simple rod change; properly adjusted and in good condition, it worked fine - much better than the cable shifts I've used.