I have one recommendation for buying a Miata short shifter for an '86 RX-7 that my son has. Any others done this mod? Just a simple bolt in? What one did you buy? Thanks guys, mark

 

archived write up

https://www.rx7club.com/2nd-gen-archive-72/miata-short-throw-shifter-writeup-445801/

 

good writeup... i think more people should know about this so they dont end up spending 200$ on a short shifter when they can get one as cheap as $30 if you look in the right places... mine works great. got it off ebay and it slips right in and feels much better

 

Thanks! With the link and matts recommendation I have my son's Christmas gift picked out! Thanks again guys, Mark

 

The only minor issue was the overall length.
The E-bay copy I got was about 1/16" too long at the bottom.
Easy fix - I just filed 1/16" off the bottom tip & it bolted right in.

I no longer have any trouble nailing 3rd.

 

Yeah you just file down the nylon works great only problem is the shift **** you will need a new one.

 

With the stock shift lever, I preferred an old school wood ball.

With the short throw lever, I actually prefer the stock ****.
I used a sleeve & set screw to secure it.

 

Doesn't the miata shifter have the same threads as the S5 shifter?

 

Depending on the year.

In my case the stock S5 **** threads were worn out, but I liked the weight & shape, so it was worth rescuing it.
A 3/8-18 set screw holds nicely.

 

the S5 is an M10x1.25, as are most Miata's, so it should.

 

do these Miata short shifters feel better than the Mazdatrix ones? I bought a Mazdatrix one used for a good price (like $80), and it's way better than stock, but it's pretty notchy and rather laborious for daily driving.