N isn't just for Neutral: GrpN shift-linkage for the MY06 Subaru STI S204

We've sworn to keep the S204 as stock as possible, and to be fair the workshops we frequent in Singapore (Espace and Applied Performance) also tell us the same, but then we'd been hearing a lot of good things about STI's GpN shift-linkage (STI: 350104S050 / Gear Shift Link), so we placed an order for it from Japanparts, together with a hard-pillow mount (STI: ST35036ST000) to use with it.

(yeah, that's the S204 in the background)

We can't say this enough times: This isn't just a short-shift kit. What it does is to replace all the soft, squishy bits in the S204's original linkage with hard-points so there's less flex and give, which returns fantastic feel, precision and weighting during shifting that is more mechanical than the original's slightly-rubbery.

(original S204's shift linkage is on top, the GpN part is below)

(left is the GpN part, right is original)

Best of all, each gear is now engaged with a satisfying 'snikt' (it's pretty hard to discern the shift quality from the video, but you can just about hear it.

As far as upgrades go, and coupled to the relatively low JPY versus the SGD when we ordered it, this is possibly the best S$500 I've ever spent. There's slightly more vibration and you feel everything a lot more, but then we're not buying these cars to drive slowly and quietly so that wasn't a huge deal-breaker for me.

Trust me when I say this 'simple' mod will make you want to drive your car so much more. Of course, it's not just applicable to the S204; I'd reckon it's the same kit for the 'hawkeye' 'pig-nose' generation of STIs with the 6spd manual transmission, but naturally, check with your respective garages/workshops/tuners to be safe.

Custom Knob Jobs

well, i'm sure most of us M/T monkeys (that's Manual Transmission) would have encountered this 'problem' at some point in the course of our car ownership.

We're sick of the factory shifter and are desperately searching for that 'perfect' knob to suit our styles.

You've been through the gear catalogues of countless online merchants, only to discover that there's always that ONE thing that results in a FAIL.

Well, a friend just pointed me to this site:

http://store.lathewerks.com/

Apart from the rather eclectic range of gear-knobs he has on offer, a buyer in search of his holy grail can even customise the knob to his heart's content!

Shape, size, material, dimensions, finishing and even weighting can be specified to suit your personal preferences.

A custom knob for a JDM STI is currently a WIP; will post up more photos when it arrives.

NISMO showdown: JDM S-Tune vs. USDM

well, i'll let the pictures speak for themselves:
(Photo Credit: 370zblog, Nissan North America, NML)

JDM:
http://www.nissan.co.jp/OPTIONAL-PARTS/NISMO/

USDM:
http://www.nissanusa.com/microsite/nismo/?intcmp=NismoZ.Promo.ZCoupe.Home.P2

Front
JDM S-Tune:


USDM NISMO 370Z:


The fangs are 'gone' with the USDM version, which achieves a cleaner look for those who didn't quite appreciate the 370Z's 'toothy' look.

Back:
JDM S-Tune:


USDM NISMO 370Z:


SIDE:
JDM:


USDM:


Close-up of JDM S-Tune rims:


Close-up of the Nismo USA rims:


USDM NISMO Gauges:


I think it's interesting that NNA SVG (Specialty Vehicles Group) is at least attempting to build up the NISMO brand into a strong contender that (hopefully) can rival the kind of appeal Mugen has achieved amongst the Honda owners.

The Z looks continue to polarise opinion, but it's heartening to note that NNA has collaborated with Autech to create a look that addresses some of the points of contention, one being the 'fangs' that were retained on the JDM S-Tune package and the rather old-school alloy design of the S-Tune.

Apart from chassis/suspension upgrades, the USDM Nismo 370Z is available as a complete car and features close ratio 6spd M/T transmission and ECU revisions to further boost engine output numbers to 350bhp and 374Nm.

More 370Z here:
http://m0t0rhead.blogspot.com/2009/03/nissan-370z-at.html


http://m0t0rhead.blogspot.com/2009/03/blog-post.html