Frequently Asked Questions:
Will this shifter work on my vehicle?
Why would I want manual control?
If you have to ask, you probably don't need. Although I love many aspects of automatic transmissions I have a strong dislike for when they choose to shift. On a steep grade they seem to never choose a gear they want to stay in. Offroad they shift at the most inoportune time. For maximum acceleration they often shift too early. Around town they go to overdrive far too quickly. They don't use the torque convertor lock to it's full potential. Using the floor shifter can help some, but it does nothing to prevent unwanted downshifting, and some like the Jeep AW4 don't have a position for 2nd gear. The bottom line is I like to drive the vehicle, not let it drive me; if you can identify with that statement you will love one of these shifters, if not, don't worry about it and have a nice day.
Can I use your controller as a stand-alone in place of the factory transmission computer (TCM/TCU)?
Yes, but it will be full time manual control. In fact the first controller was made in order to simplify my own transmission swap and I prefer full-time manual control anyway. The controller is actually the exact same, so if you decide later to add a TCM you can use the same controller and switch between auto and manual.
Does it really give total control? When I put it in 3rd, will it go to 2nd and 1st as I slow down?
When in the manual mode, it gives FULL control. The transmission will go only to the gear you select and will remain there until you select another or go back to auto.
Are there any potentially harmful effects on the transmission?
None. This controller controls the electronic shift solenoids in the same way the factory computer does and so the transmission is simply obeying those signals like it always does without any clue that the signals are coming from a controller rather than the factory computer. However like a manual transmission there is the possibility of shifting wrong; just like a manual, don't shift into 1st gear at 70mph or try starting from a stop in 4th gear.
What's the difference and/or advantage of this shifter versus B&M type shifters?
B&M shifters and others similar are mechanical only and offer no significant advantage over the stock shifter for electronically controlled transmissions. This shifter controls the electronics and provides for genuine manual control.
Is it easy to install? Should I have a mechanic or electrician install it?
Maybe you should have a chimpanzee help install it, because I've received several emails back from customers saying they think a chimp could do it. The wiring portion of the install is VERY easy, and mounting the switches, joystick, or paddles can be as easy or difficult as you want to make it. Buttons would be easiest and all you would do is need to drill a few holes wherever you decide to locate the buttons and LEDs.
What tools do I need for the install?
The wiring of the controller only requires a pair of pliers to squeeze the quick splice connectors. The mounting of buttons, switches, etc may require drilling or more complicated things if you choose, and the wiring to them may require the use of a soldering iron and electrical tape or heat-shrink tube.
Can I switch to auto or manual at any time?
Yes. When you initially switch from auto to manual it will start in 4th gear. This is a safety precaution so that you can switch at high speeds and not over-rev your engine. If you switch to manual at slow speeds you will want to downshift to the appropriate gear within a few seconds as being in 4th gear won't hurt anything immediately, but will begin to build extra heat in the transmission. You can switch to auto at any time also, and if power to the controller is ever disrupted, the system will revert back to auto control.
Are there any complications with the factory electronics?
Some newer models (like the 97+ XJs) have more comprehensive electronic systems which will activate a Check Engine light when the manual mode is activated. This will affect nothing else and exists simply because the vehicle is aware the transmission is not receiving commands from the factory computer.
What does the torque convertor lock do?
When you lock up the torque convertor it takes the "slip" out of the transmission making it more efficient and run cooler. The factory computer will lock it up under medium to light throttle in third and fourth gears, basically to gain efficiency when cruising on the highway. Some people use it offroad for extra compression braking, and although I can't recommend that because it's not designed for it and will likely reduce the life of your torque convertor, many people do it and I've never heard of a failure.
Do I still need the factory floor shifter?
Yes. This shifter is only electronic and has no provisions to control the manual selection of park, reverse, neutral or drive. The controller can remain on in the other positions with no harm, but only controls the transmission in the drive positions.
Can I use multiple shifting methods?
Yes. Because the shift source is a momentary input, you can use more than one of the shifting options provided. For example, you could mount paddle shifters and buttons on your console, and shift using whichever is more convenient at any given moment.
That's all for now... no doubt this will be an ever-expanding section...
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