heat seeker

iTrader: (5)

Well fellas I had been looking for a Dual Gate shifter for quite some time, then realized why pay $400 or more, for an old shifter, when there are newer ones that work just as good, if not better. Now I understand that many want to keep the stock console, but I wasn't really concerned with that. Mine was beginning to fall apart, so i figured why not take a shot at updating the interior some.

So I decided to find a cheap 4th gen Firebird console and to install a used B&M Pro Ratchet shifter, and I'm quite pleased with the turnout. It does require some cutting and drilling, aligning, shimming, measuring and re-cutting.....basically it takes patience. It's not that bad of a job..........and it's worth it.

I re-installed my window switches on top and the mirror switch is hidden inside the console arm rest. (I don't adjust my mirrors that often) So for any of you who don't like the B&M (rubber boot) Megashifter, and want a nice ratchet shifter, this is an option.

Anyways, just throwing this idea out there........not too bad for $200 job.

rarebmx

iTrader: (6)

Pictures don't show up for me. Curious how it looks. I think the demand for the Hurst shifters are: A. They are no longer made and B: they are by far the best looking shifter (almost look stock to most people).
Not sure about function but I am sure other shifter work just as well if not better.

heat seeker

iTrader: (5)

Alright, I think they're showing now.......

I agree the Hurst shifter looks really good. But now that I've done this install, I think this one looks so much more up-to-date. It's definitely not the way to go if you want the stock look.

The Dual-Gate is so hard to find.....I figure why not show some other, cheaper, options.

rarebmx

iTrader: (6)

Looks good. I could use one in my 4th gen.... but hands down, I think the Hurst looks better with 3rd gen console

heat seeker

iTrader: (5)

Ya know, I could never find any pics of the Dual-Gate in a 3rd gen Firebird, just the Camaro. The Camaro is a clean install, no argument there.

Also, on the B&M shifter.....you can paint the aluminum cover gloss black and get a black shifter ****. I was tempted to do it, but the silver accent matched my gauges.

rarebmx

iTrader: (6)

I do have a picture of a Hurst Dual Gate in a Firebird. From the research I have done they fit but there is more cutting of the shiftplate and you need to shim the mount up 3/4".

heat seeker

iTrader: (5)

That makes sense. I had the Megashifter and had to cut my console also....and it looks okay. But after a while I got tired of the rubber boot and the annoying trigger lockout.

I was just looking for anything better than what I had, so I came up with this.

rarebmx

iTrader: (6)

Yep.... The Dual Gates are out there (or were). I have aquired 5 of them in the last couple of months. They aren't cheap though and I had every intention on having them remade but I am going to wait and see what happens within the next few months.
I agree for the price the Megashifter is a good alternative. However it is a different shifter and only goes up one gear at a time. I like the dual gate because you can shift it form first into 3rd of overdrive... I guess it doesn't make much sense but you have options with it.

heat seeker

iTrader: (5)

Yep, the dual gates were out there.......but i think you have them all! Seeing that I race, I need to only go one gear at a time.

Actually I spoke to you on the phone, and almost bought one......you refered me to a guy in San Antonio. Hope you guys work something out with the shifters.....alot of people would jump on them for the right price.

Catch ya later man.......

rarebmx

iTrader: (6)

ohm yeah. We did talk. I understand that another solution needs to be made or worked out. Glad you found what works for you and that you are happy with it. It does look good in your console and WAY better than the B&M boot!
Take care.

t-top havoc

iTrader: (3)

You did a great job-- it looks real nice!!

So where do I deliver my Camaro to get it done??

Thumbs up here

heat seeker

iTrader: (5)

Thanks man.......ship it down here, I'll knock it out!!

RS Chris

That is clean my friend. Looks like it was supposed to be that way form the factory. Whats funny is most people not familiar with third-gens will look right past the fourth-gen console and focus on the shifter. Thats when you know you did a good job, people look past the big obvious difference to try and spot the little ones. Nice.

heat seeker

iTrader: (5)

Thanks man, that's what I was shooting for. Sometimes just small details or changes to our cars, can really make a difference. I think this shifter accomplishes that, and gives it a unique look.

I actually saw this done on LS1tech to a 5th gen Trans Am, and figured why not give it a shot.

Cadaver Puncher

iTrader: (1)

That looks badass! Once everything else is done and it's interior time...I'm going that route.
Hopefully in my 91 Camaro, it will look just as good.

GRYHAWK

does anyone know if the fourth gen console will work with the thrid gen shifter or would i have to change that out also?

heat seeker

iTrader: (5)

Not sure about that.....maybe someone else can chime in.