BL/SS impressions

[Rich Beebe <rich@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Everyone,

As one of the latest to install a BL/SS kit in my car, I thought
I'd send this list my impressions of the kit and the results.

First off, the kit is very well put together. What I mean by this
is you can option this kit so that you have all new components or
you can simply order the components you need. Since my stock shifter
had 108K on it, I opted for the 'send me everything new' kit. The kit
also comes with the most detailed set of instructions that I have
ever received for an aftermarket product. The instructions describe
every step and are accompanied by very clear corresponding photos.
Kudos to UUC Motorwerks on this portion.

Now the shifter and installation. The car being upgraded was my 
88 M5 and I opted for the BL/SS 3 w/ERK. The shifter I was replacing
was quite worn out, so anything was going to feel better, but I
never imagined how short the throws would be. Installation was a
snap, with the hardest part getting the old cup out of the receiver,
as I chose not to remove my exhaust. This made arm movement from
below a little difficult, but still not a problem. With the cup
out, the new ERK drops right in the receiver and bolts down. The
instructions note that this will be much easier with the receiver
arm out, but I found little difficulty in securing the bolts in the
ERK from under the car with nothing removed. From there, the new cup
and lever snap right in to the ERK 'riser'. One note on the quality of
the ERK riser, it's terrific. Beautifully machined and I saw no need
for improvement. Last thing was to connect the rod to the shifter, and 
that was it. The circlip is a tight fit if you opt for the 2 new
washers at the base of the shifter.

I waited to post the results, as I wanted to give the stiffness of
the shifter a chance to wear in. It's been about 2 weeks, and we don't
drive this car much in 2 weeks (I work @ home), and the end result
is a much smoother shift. It's still a bit notchy, but I like that.
It 'snicks' into each gear. How short is the reduced throw? Let's just
say I couldn't believe I was actually putting it into gear. As soon
as you push/pull the shifter through neutral, you're immediately into
the next gear. Very cool.

My overall impression of the BL/SS kit, including instructions,
installation and results, is very high. UUC has done a wonderful job.

Rich Beebe
NCC
usual disclaimers apply

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