I'm thinking about the whole Kartboy deal... How exactly does the feel differ? Are the throws that much shorter, and the shifter a little more "notchy?" I want something with more of a definition to it, and a firmer feel. Anyone with the shifter / bushings please post your thoughts on the package! Thanks!

 

Definately worth it and definately do the bushings also. Much shorter throw and a more solid feel.

 

How much shorter is the Kartboy shifter than stock, and how much shorter are the throws? Also...just wondering if you guys knew how Kartboy compared to B&M and TWM performance wise? Thanks for your time!

 

From Kartboy.com...

"Kartboy Protege Shift Lever
This replacement shift lever provides a reduce height and throw for the Mazda Protege5 and MP3. The height is reduced about 2" on the Protege5, and 1" on the MP3. Accordingly, the throw is reduced 35% for the Protege5 and 20% for the MP3. Installation can be performed in under an hour. This product is CNC machined from 4130 Cr-Mo Steel and TIG welded. Please note that the stock MP3 Shift **** will not fit. Arrangements can be made for custom threading, or an aftermarket **** can be installed."

I have heard that some people like the B&M over the Kartboy and vice-versa. Haven't heard anything about the TWM one. Each one has its own differences and price is a factor. Either one will be a good fit.

 

I have the TWM. I got mine from the Toronto Protege Club group buy and I think it's a great product. The stock boot and **** fits right on and the throw is short. It took me a while to get used to as it tighten everything up. Throw reduction is about the same as the B&M but the actual shift **** sits two inches lower in a P5. One thing I like about the TWM is it's easier to install/remove than the B&M so in case anything happens to your tranny you can remove it and put the stock shifter back for warranty purpose.

Just remember to torque the bolts (both bushings and shifter) properly at 12-16 lb-ft and use loctite blue on the thread. I over tighten the shifter bolt at first and it was so stiff. Then I bought a torque wrench and it's all good now.