We are very proud to introduce a new product to the community!

Syncro Savers!

Over shifting during performance driving is a common occurrence across a wide variety of vehicles and the RX-8 is no exception.

During spirited driving, the faster you shift, the sooner you get back on the power. Unfortunately, faster shifting is usually more aggressive shifting which leads to “over shifting” the transmission.

Over shifting is shifter travel greater than required to engage the gear which can cause serious damage to internal transmission components such as synchronizers, clutch hubs (which contact the synchronizer) or the shift forks. From the drivers seat this seems very slight but the clearances inside the transmission are measured it thousandths of an inch! In other words, a little extra movement in the shifter is eliminating the required clearances inside the transmission.

The next time you are in your vehicle, select a gear and release the shifter. Press the shifter harder into the same gear and you will notice the shifter actually continues to move past the point where the transmission is already in gear! In vehicles with short shifters this will be masked slightly because of the shortened throw but the internal stresses are still present and possibly worse because of leverage. During spirited driving it is likely happening with ALL of the shifts because the driver is focused on getting to the next gear as quickly as possible.

The bottom line, this slight additional movement breaks internal components! Race cars with aftermarket shifters have been addressing the problem for years and now you can as well!


The Syncro-Saver when installed properly will eliminate the additional excessive travel of the shifter with a definitive shifter stop which in turn will eliminate the binding of components inside the transmission. You set it, lock the stops in position and forget it!

This also allows you to focus on your driving and NOT worry about over shifting and damaging the transmission.


These have been tested on multiple cars already with the AFE Short Shifter and Standard OEM Shifter as well with great success!


Instock and Ready to ship!



The Price is $125 plus shipping

Purchases can be made here using Google Checkout! (https://www.fluidmotorsports.com/p-188-transmission-and-accessories.aspx)


http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o113/BluMonstrRX8/s_saver_b.jpg
http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o113/BluMonstrRX8/s_saver_c.jpg
http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o113/BluMonstrRX8/s_saver_d.jpg
http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o113/BluMonstrRX8/s_saver_e.jpg
http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o113/BluMonstrRX8/s_saver_f.jpg
http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o113/BluMonstrRX8/a.jpg
http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o113/BluMonstrRX8/b.jpg

hmm.. and what are the benefits of this? looks simple but arent the synchros worn when shifting INTO the gear fast?

stop bending the forks?
OD

...Over shifting is shifter travel greater than required to engage the gear which can cause serious damage to internal transmission components such as synchronizers, clutch hubs (which contact the synchronizer) or the shift forks.....


hmm.. and what are the benefits of this? looks simple but arent the synchros worn when shifting INTO the gear fast?

There you go! :)

man, i could of used this like 20,000 miles ago, now my synchros are starting to go in my 2nd and 4th gear....

is this good with the 09?

Will this change the "feel" of the shifter?

Looks promising.

Will this change the "feel" of the shifter?

It'll probably feel more solid when you push the shifter hard while driving "spiritedly". Can imagine it feeling like you hit a wall instead of having a bit of give once you put it in gear.

man, i could of used this like 20,000 miles ago, now my synchros are starting to go in my 2nd and 4th gear....

Never too late to get it...lol

is this good with the 09?

Yes.

Will this change the "feel" of the shifter?

......

It'll probably feel more solid when you push the shifter hard while driving "spiritedly". Can imagine it feeling like you hit a wall instead of having a bit of give once you put it in gear.


Bingo.

Think of it like shifting with confidence. Precise, very Precise. Like he said, hitting a wall and no give. Remember this is a preventive measure to keep the life of your transmission.

3 sets gone.

I am only doing this price to fill my pre-order after that it is going to the regular price.

stop bending the forks?
OD

yes.

beers :beer:

Will this change the "feel" of the shifter?

no,

not the feel, but it stops sooner! :)

beers :beer:

no,

not the feel, but it stops sooner! :)

beers :beer:

So it'll be shorter?

So it'll be shorter?


Not Really.... it will be shorter in a manner of terms because you wont be going farther than need be, if that makes sense.....

5 sets gone...

10 left at this price....

I have couple of questions for ya.

1. What is the material being used?
2. Is it hardened enough to not deflect/deform after many strikes against it?

How is this installed? Do you need to drill holes and make threads or are there existing holes you can use? (I forgot how that area looks like)

I have couple of questions for ya.

1. What is the material being used?
2. Is it hardened enough to not deflect/deform after many strikes against it?


1. Stainless Steel 304
2. Yes, yes it is.

How is this installed? Do you need to drill holes and make threads or are there existing holes you can use? (I forgot how that area looks like)

There are existing holes already.

I can't find this on your site... at least it is not listed in the section your link points to.
Searching for 'synchro saver' has a match, but no SKU... what am I missing?

Crap, everytime I come up w/ a plan on what I want to get next you go and throw a new product in to the mix. :)

Is this compatible with Axial Flow's short shifter?

Thanks

- Kabong

I can't find this on your site... at least it is not listed in the section your link points to.
Searching for 'synchro saver' has a match, but no SKU... what am I missing?

http://www.fluidmotorsports.com/p-62-transmission.aspx

beers :beer:

Is this compatible with Axial Flow's short shifter?

Thanks

- Kabong

yep.

beers :beer:

http://www.fluidmotorsports.com/p-62-transmission.aspxThat's the same link Fluid provided above and the page does not list this item. Try it.

Fixed, I moved it to the bottom of the transmission listings.

There is something going on that is werid with the site in that section only.

-Brice

the AFE is machined so you can't "overshift"

the AFE is machined so you can't "overshift"

That is quite interesting where is this feature built into?

I certainly don't see it on the AFE SS......

I await your response, because it is not built in.

The AFE SS has a reduced throw, it does not prevent overshifting, it just makes it less noticeable.

Jedi54 would be a perfect example of this...he has replaced his transmission twice and uses the AFE SS.

RP makes an excellent product so are you now saying that RP has made a faulty product?



I think not, AFE makes an outstanding product this feature that rot0r discusses just does not exist in the SS.

So what kind of setup is required? The unit seems adjustable?

So what kind of setup is required? The unit seems adjustable?


It is very easy to install and yes the forward mount and rear mount are adjustable.

I installed mine yesterday, it took about 5 Mins, But my center console was already uninstalled.

Hey Brice,

I want to buy this, but I took some time off work for exams, would I be able to buy this at this price on the 12th of Feb (next time I get paid)

As well could I get shipping of USPS instead of Fed-Ex (international to Canada) they both always deliver at bad times and picking up from Canada post is far easier than picking up via fed ex.

i still have serious questions that havent been answered enough to satisfy my curiosities.

1) If this is really much of an answer to the tranny issues - why didnt mazda choose this simple extremely cheap fix over going with a new tranny ,or at least TSB it for the series I's?

Hard to say some of the logic behind the decisions corporations make.

Why didn't they build a better clutch bracket or a reinforcement kit and recall ALL the 6 speed cars for this? I find it surprising, it's a liability but they haven't done anything about it. "shrug"



2) I'll buy that overshifting can cause synchro damage along with the forks and other things because i dont know any better. That doesnt explain all the synchro issues we've been having for years from people who drive like grannies, and are far from likely to be hammering in and out of gears and overshifting. Our synchros simply arent up to the task of being over worked across such a large rpm band. So how does this fix that?

People that are having syncro issue's that are "granny" shifting may want to take look at their shifting technique altogether.
Poor shifting technique can cause syncro issues, what we are addressing here is overshifting and the expensive damage that occurs from it.

3) So given that the user installs everything correctly, what about the question of gears(1,3,5 or 2,4,6) not engaging in the exact same spot? seems this mod would force them to, if they arent meant to, thats a BAD thing right?

The syncro saver is slotted to allow the shifter position to be determined for each individual application. I will upload more photo's to help clear this up.


and my biggest concern for now... Am i incorrect in thinking that over 20-30-XX thousand miles, things wear and tolerances change a bit?? so what happens a year down the road when the position you have bolted this thing down to is no longer the optimum position? Will you then be causing MORE wear and damage rather than preventing it??

The Syncro Saver determines the stop point for the shifter, if in "20-30-XX" miles you determine it should be adjusted simply adjust it.

Hey Brice,

I want to buy this, but I took some time off work for exams, would I be able to buy this at this price on the 12th of Feb (next time I get paid)

As well could I get shipping of USPS instead of Fed-Ex (international to Canada) they both always deliver at bad times and picking up from Canada post is far easier than picking up via fed ex.


Can do, just remind me via pm when ordering.

-Brice

Will this work with Mazdaspeed SS?

Can these be improperly adjusted and if so, how would that affect the syncros? Could these not 'cause' improper engagement, exasperating the problem?

Seal.

Will this work with Mazdaspeed SS?

Yes

Can these be improperly adjusted and if so, how would that affect the syncros? Could these not 'cause' improper engagement, exasperating the problem?

Seal.

Yes if it is installed incorrectly it would not be effective, installation is far easier than you think.

It really is that simple, once you actually do it the concept is easily grasped, it really is.

I took 5 minutes myself last night doing this on my personal car,(I sent prototypes out for independent testing) it was very simple and easy to install.

-Brice

This is a clever solution to a problem I've been debating how to fix...I'm going to pick one up...

For all the people who "Dont Get It"...

You install and leave them slightly loose, and then row thru your gears, but dont "SHOVE" it into gear, find the point where it engages and thats where you "LOCK" it down by tightening...

This prevents you from bending the forks and whatnot by over-engaging or pushing too hard to left or right.

It's a physical "STOP"...and thus relieves the trans from unneeded stress...

Hell, as soon as I order it, I'll post a video DIY...seriously, this is an "ELEGANT" solution to a problem I know exists...

THANKS...you just saved me alot of work...

basically this is a solid fix for those that want to jam gears-?--on the drag strip, autocross (maybe not as much for the road race circuits) or those spirits driving times.
During install may be a good time to change tranny fluid and adjust your clutch!
I can see the benefit--? please-- would the addition on a thin rubber edge lessen the "sudden stop" affect?
OD

basically this is a solid fix for those that want to jam gears-?--on the drag strip, autocross (maybe not as much for the road race circuits) or those spirits driving times.
During install may be a good time to change tranny fluid and adjust your clutch!
I can see the benefit--? please-- would the addition on a thin rubber edge lessen the "sudden stop" affect?
OD

Yep...OR what you can do is wrap the shaft with a few layers of your favorite material...

In my case...probably some industrial strength rubber foam tape...

=)

This is a pretty good idea. It's a bit pricey for what it is IMO, but if you don't have fabrication skills or tools you don't really have any other options :)

would the addition on a thin rubber edge lessen the "sudden stop" affect?

I tend to agree that some small form of dampening would be a good idea as well, but it might be unnecessary.

Kudos to Fluid for continuing to provide new solutions for the 8.

When you say "install properly", can anyone do this or does it require knowledge to do it right?

Looks interesting. Good for people who don't know their own strength I guess.

I'm gonna stick with not using gorilla strength when shifting and hope for the best though. I'll consider this mod if/when I blow up my first gearbox.

fair enough as long as you answer to their satisfaction i suppose.

you still havent answered this though i dont think... i press the question because i dont know tranny stuff well enough to know on my own, but you should:

i even edited it so that it should be to your liking :)

Right, which is why to "correctly" install it, you should install but leave it loose enough to move with moderate pressure...

Move thru each gear, N->1->N->1->N, then do the same for each gear, repeatedly, so the forward movement of the shaft STOPS after you feel the transmission engaged, and the shaft no longer requires pressure to remain in place.

After doing this several times to ensure that the bracket will STOP the shaft well after the engage point, you lock it down so the bracket no longer moves...DONE


And if you don't position the stop exactly correct, you will cause serious issues by preventing the transmission from engaging properly.

Thus giving you an "adjustable" dead stop for YOU to adjust means if you have failure resulting from this down the road, it's your ass on the line.

Of course, hence why for this to work, you HAVE to make sure you install it properly. I'd say its not a difficult install, but yea, you wouldn't want your average idiot stopping the engagement point too early thinking its shortening the shift...

It's a good idea, and will definitely help me not have to worry about trashing the box due to using too much force...which I sometimes am guilty of...

this is probably a good idea for those on the drag strip who are putting down 400whp and SLAM the shifter into gear but I don't see it being that great for an RX-8.

If you don't tighten this thing down in the proper spot, I could see it causing some issues with the transmission.
How bout people just NOT slam the shifter into place??? :dunno:

this is probably a good idea for those on the drag strip who are putting down 400whp and SLAM the shifter into gear but I don't see it being that great for an RX-8.

If you don't tighten this thing down in the proper spot, I could see it causing some issues with the transmission.
How bout people just NOT slam the shifter into place??? :dunno:

The 1->2 shift is primarily the biggest problem...especially in drag or quick shifting...

Physics...the "real world"...when you shift and are accelerating hard, the inertia of your hand is going to "slam" 2nd in anyway...

The short shifter basically changes the leverage point...and "shortens" the shift by moving the pivot point...the effect is basically increased force is required generally depending where the pivot moved along the plane...

The increased force means your going to naturally start to compensate for it, but due to the shorter throw, your less likely to feel any feedback because the other side of the pivot point has reduced it...

It's simply a way to prevent slamming even by accident...

I'm totally guilty...and thus...totally need this...

Right, which is why to "correctly" install it, you should install but leave it loose enough to move with moderate pressure...

Move thru each gear, N->1->N->1->N, then do the same for each gear, repeatedly, so the forward movement of the shaft STOPS after you feel the transmission engaged, and the shaft no longer requires pressure to remain in place.

After doing this several times to ensure that the bracket will STOP the shaft well after the engage point, you lock it down so the bracket no longer moves...DONE


That's exactly how I would assume it would work, place car in gear, adjust bracket, repeat as many times as needed.

Although I have NO problems with the transmission right now, just like I never had problems with the clutch pedal bracket, I did that mod to ensure I wouldn't have any future problems.

That's exactly how I would assume it would work, place car in gear, adjust bracket, repeat as many times as needed.

Although I have NO problems with the transmission right now, just like I never had problems with the clutch pedal bracket, I did that mod to ensure I wouldn't have any future problems.

Telling ya...I'll make a DIY video explaining exactly where your supposed to stop and why...just so teh tards dont F'up the tranny...

The 1->2 shift is primarily the biggest problem...especially in drag or quick shifting...

Physics...the "real world"...when you shift and are accelerating hard, the inertia of your hand is going to "slam" 2nd in anyway...

Someone had mentioned that 1 + 2 have internal dead stops, but I can't say one way or another.

Someone had mentioned that 1 + 2 have internal dead stops, but I can't say one way or another.

thats what i was told last night.

If they do...they dont work...my last trans had issues with the 1->2 and 3->2 shifts...the entire trans was replaced and they said 1,2,3,4 syncros were trashed...


very viable possibility. but your forgetting the other possibilities. like our synchros simply arent up to the challenge of being abused. clutch stuff that we all know about, and numerous other things...

until someone with a bit more knowledge and authority on the subject than a new vendor who hasnt yet earned absolute trust speaks on the subject, i wont buy into anything for certain and will be skeptical of everything, including my own ideas

Man I shift with 2 fingers that is all the pressure you need.

I call it the "Raptor Grip" because it looks like a raptors claws around the shift knob.

hmm. I wish I could "test drive" this type of product before I bought it. Looks interesting though. I guess I have to wait for the reviews after people install them. Does seem a bit pricey....but if it actually does increase the life of the tranny, than I guess it will pay for itself. Being that I am TC'd, my warranty is out if I blow a tranny...so I would rather not deal with buying a new/used/rebuilt/whatever tranny and installing it......

I have updated the first post with more pictures to illustrate what is going on.

Hope this clears things up

http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o113/BluMonstrRX8/a.jpg
http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o113/BluMonstrRX8/b.jpg

Very interesting.......

http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o113/BluMonstrRX8/a.jpg
http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o113/BluMonstrRX8/b.jpg

Fluid, how do you take car of our 5th gear engagement? it happens pretty much on the side and there there can be some serious overshifting problems.
You should also answer us on how this product takes care of the different shift points of each gear. I am sure that you can place it on every transmission but that's not the question ;)
Also paulmasoner's point is interesting: after x thousands miles you will probably have to set this product up again. The problem is that you will understand it because it will start not to work properly (you will "overshift" as you like to say).
You should tell us, since you've done extensive R&D, at what torque should we lock the nuts and after how many miles we should check the assembly.

A part from that, are you sure that we overshift? a part from the term, that might be not exact in our case, the stock collar already ensures that we don't go too far off of the shifting point.
I know that because i played with a broken transmission that wass off of the car to see what could be done :)

Come out with a set of steel forks and better synchros, possibly straight cut gears and i will buy it.

Man I shift with 2 fingers that is all the pressure you need.

I call it the "Raptor Grip" because it looks like a raptors claws around the shift knob.
AJ I place my order on the 5th. I'll let you test drive my new 8. You can decide for yourself if you like it and get one :smoker:

Fluid, how do you take car of our 5th gear engagement? it happens pretty much on the side and there there can be some serious overshifting problems.
You should also answer us on how this product takes care of the different shift points of each gear. I am sure that you can place it on every transmission but that's not the question ;)
Also paulmasoner's point is interesting: after x thousands miles you will probably have to set this product up again. The problem is that you will understand it because it will start not to work properly (you will "overshift" as you like to say).
You should tell us, since you've done extensive R&D, at what torque should we lock the nuts and after how many miles we should check the assembly.

A part from that, are you sure that we overshift? a part from the term, that might be not exact in our case, the stock collar already ensures that we don't go too far off of the shifting point.
I know that because i played with a broken transmission that wass off of the car to see what could be done :)

Come out with a set of steel forks and better synchros, possibly straight cut gears and i will buy it.


Hmm interesting point myself I am not 100% sure to answer this question correctly I will forward it to the manufacturer.

I will get back to you beginning of next week.

A part from that, are you sure that we overshift? a part from the term, that might be not exact in our case, the stock collar already ensures that we don't go too far off of the shifting point.
I know that because i played with a broken transmission that wass off of the car to see what could be done :)



we dont overshift, some do.. how do you think the forks get bent? and the syncros go bad because the forks are holding them in the wrong place after they are bent.. :)

this is a big issue with racing teams that rent cars out.. ;)

with you new transmission.. as you are driving. pick a gear.. with the clutch out push foward or backward on the shifter. i will make a noise.. that would be the ability to over or under shift..

beers :beer:

Thank you Fluid and thank you swoope. as for that kind of overshifting you're right swoope, but you would have to smash the gears in order to ruin the forks!

Thank you Fluid and thank you swoope. as for that kind of overshifting you're right swoope, but you would have to smash the gears in order to ruin the forks!

but yet it happens so much.

I agree with swoope here on the fact that its very easy to tell for yourself just by pulling or pushing on your shifter when in gear you can easily tell how much stress that puts on "something" in there. the syncrhos

The fact is that this is something you easily avoid by learning how to shift properly :)
I am now eagerly waiting for Fluid's replies for it would be cool to save transmissions for around 100bucks.

The fact is that this is something you easily avoid by learning how to shift properly :)
I am now eagerly waiting for Fluid's replies for it would be cool to save transmissions for around 100bucks.

or they could easily be taught for 100 bucks :)

it costs less than a lot of things that people buy and are completely pointless.

Sure! This could be one of those useless products though, that's why i'm really looking forward to reading a good reply from Fluid!

Sure! This could be one of those useless products though, that's why i'm really looking forward to reading a good reply from Fluid!

i think it would be more effective than say like a strut bar or under bracing or some of the other stuff that claims improvement but you still spend the money on anyways just to "have it"

indeed looking forward to someones review

Orders shipped out!

That is quite interesting where is this feature built into?

I certainly don't see it on the AFE SS......

I await your response, because it is not built in.

The AFE SS has a reduced throw, it does not prevent overshifting, it just makes it less noticeable.

Jedi54 would be a perfect example of this...he has replaced his transmission twice and uses the AFE SS.

RP makes an excellent product so are you now saying that RP has made a faulty product?



I think not, AFE makes an outstanding product this feature that rot0r discusses just does not exist in the SS.


Its rather odd I can slam gears as hard as I want and can't get the shifter to overengage... Its also odd when doing this I feel a solid clunk and sound as if the shifter shaft is smacking into the CNC'd bracket (like it was designed to do) to prevents this

In this way you risk to overwear the synchros anyway.
Bending the forks and stressing the synchronizer can be separate issues ;)

Here is my install and review (so far). For those who wonder the material is painted heavy gauge stainless steel. Basically, too heavy to be aluminum and it does not attract a heavy magnet). For those that keep saying that the stock OEM shifter plate acts as a shift lever stopper I’m afraid to say that it doesn’t. It just holds the shift lever down in place. At least with an AF short shifter like mine. There is about ½” distance between the shifter and the transmission OEM shifter holding plate after positioning the shifter on 1, 2, 3, 4 gears.

There were no installations with the kit but it is pretty much straight forward. Remove the shifter knob, shifter console, shifter outer rubber boot, shifter inner boot and the three shifter holding plate bolts.

Then install the syncro saver plate and use the provided three longer bolts to attach it to the transmission. Use you hand calibrated torque wrench to properly torque the bolts down. I figure 10~13 foot pounds since the head of the bolts are serrated to prevent loosening. Once the plate is bolted down move the shifter to the first gear position and move the front adjustable plate so it will touch/kiss the shifter. Hand tight the front adjustable plate bolts and move the shifter to the second gear position. Do the same with the read adjustable plate and proceed to third and fourth gear.

Before you torque the adjustable plate bolts down start the car and with the clutch down recheck the adjustable plates position while going thru all gear positions. Turn of the car and torque down the bolts.

You will need to muscle down the inner rubber boot over the syncro saver plate but it will fit as shown on the picture. Reinstall the rest of the shifter parts and take the car for a spin. You will hear and feel as the shifter hits the syncro saver plate.

I will take the car to work on Wednesday (140 miles roundtrip) and provide more feedback to include a trip down to Moroso on February 13th as I’m planning to step into the 12s seconds ¼ mile club. :eyetwitch

First and second gear position. :eyetwitch

Third, forth and fifth gear positions. :eyetwitch

Inner and outer rubber boot. :eyetwitch

Thank you Juan.

Sorry for not having the Instructions, but Like you said very straight Forward.

Good Luck on Feb. 13th at Moroso.


To add as he was saying most likely why you guys think you can't overshift with the AFE SS is that the throw has been reduced and it is much harder to notice the overshift.

Well folks I was going to wait until tomorrow to take the car to work and test the syncro saver. But got up this morning and changed my mind. Needless to say I drove very aggressive and all I have to say is WOW!!! :Eyecrazy:

I’m still at work and can’t wait to drive back home. I will provide more feedback after the 13th quarter mile a Moroso and an autocross event on the 21st. :eyetwitch

Juan good to hear you are loving it :)

Well folks I was going to wait until tomorrow to take the car to work and test the syncro saver. But got up this morning and changed my mind. Needless to say I drove like very aggressive and all I have to say is WOW!!! :Eyecrazy:

I’m still at work and can’t wait to drive back home. I will provide more feedback after the 13th quarter mile a Moroso and an autocross event on the 21st. :eyetwitch

Excited to hear more...

Restocked and ready to ship more!

Did you have a chance to ask that things to the crafter?

Did you have a chance to ask that things to the crafter?

The slots allow the stop plates to rotate and will provide stops for all the gears.

Well folks I was going to wait until tomorrow to take the car to work and test the syncro saver. But got up this morning and changed my mind. Needless to say I drove very aggressive and all I have to say is WOW!!! :Eyecrazy:

I’m still at work and can’t wait to drive back home. I will provide more feedback after the 13th quarter mile a Moroso and an autocross event on the 21st. :eyetwitch

Come on dude, don't leave us hanging... :bigok:

Come on dude, don't leave us hanging... :bigok:

Not much to add cuz it just felt the same as in the morning. Please keep in mind that I have an AF short shifter and not the OEM. Therefore it might be a different feel/performance for those using the OEM shifter. BTW, I do NOT represent Fluid Motorsports, work for Fluid Motorsports or receive a commission from Fluid Motorsports. I told Brice that if I notice an improvement with the syncro saver that I will post a review on the forum and if not I would deal with it privately. That’s the way I always conduct my purchases with forum vendors. I will provide more feedback after Moroso and my next autocross event. But for now the syncro saver is and feel totally awesome, trust me! :eyetwitch

http://i297.photobucket.com/albums/mm205/doorcombo/bling_bling_teeth.jpg

Thanks Juan.

Anyone having issues with ordering please PM me and I can setup payment options.

Not much to add cuz it just felt the same as in the morning. Please keep in mind that I have an AF short shifter and not the OEM. Therefore it might be a different feel/performance for those using the OEM shifter. BTW, I do NOT represent Fluid Motorsports, work for Fluid Motorsports or receive a commission from Fluid Motorsports. I told Brice that if I notice an improvement with the syncro saver that I will post a review on the forum and if not I would deal with it privately. That’s the way I always conduct my purchases with forum vendors. I will provide more feedback after Moroso and my next autocross event. But for now the syncro saver is and feel totally awesome, trust me! :eyetwitch

LOL, nice photo :) I have the short shifter as well. When you say it feels awesome, please describe the difference. What does it feel like from your perception? Thx!

LOL, nice photo :) I have the short shifter as well. When you say it feels awesome, please describe the difference. What does it feel like from your perception? Thx!

Well it is hard to describe but your shifting will improve 100%. I assume that the same happened after you installed your AF SS. I normally drive my car with the radio off when on “drive it like you stole it” mode. I like to feel and hear as much feedback as possible. You will hear/feel the shifter touch the stop plate hence letting you know that it is no longer required to apply forward or backward hand motion. Also, you can slam from 1st gear to 2nd while riding the edge of the saver plate for a smooth gear transition. I hope you already ordered one cuz I know you will feel the same once installed. Just remember to follow my previously posted installation steps and let the rest of the peanut gallery know your review/comments. :eyetwitch

Trans Saver would be a better name :eyetwitch

Well it is hard to describe but your shifting will improve 100%. I assume that the same happened after you installed your AF SS. I normally drive my car with the radio off when on “drive it like you stole it” mode. I like to feel and hear as much feedback as possible. You will hear/feel the shifter touch the stop plate hence letting you know that it is no longer required to apply forward or backward hand motion. Also, you can slam from 1st gear to 2nd while riding the edge of the saver plate for a smooth gear transition. I hope you already ordered one cuz I know you will feel the same once installed. Just remember to follow my previously posted installation steps and let the rest of the peanut gallery know your review/comments. :eyetwitch

Great description, you sold me :)

Trans Saver would be a better name :eyetwitch

i think fork non bender..

and great write juan! :)

beers :beer:

Funny Guys...

We have shipped out all orders and are now currently Restock and ready for more!

If anyone needs the installation instructions from the origianl set of orders please email me at rx8sales@fluidmotorsports.com

Looking forward to seeing the video DIY! :)

Well folks I was not able to break into the 12s but there’s always another time. Will try next time near my home http://www.bradentonmotorsports.com/

The syncro saver performed flawlessly and made it easier to transition between gears.

I had a hard time getting used to my new M/T slicks trying to find the sweet spot between tire air pressure and launching rpm. I also need to concentrate on smooth=fast shifting rather than speed shifting. However, the car ran great and like always no issues whatsoever. :eyetwitch

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xM39f82_0ro

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JFaB451sU0M

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vM6xltQUHcc

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1snzN2xl3s

All remaining orders shipped out and I am restocked on the syncro savers!

Just got back from an autocross event in Brooksville, FL. Take a look at a couple of videos I took while driving the wrong way and the right way. Enjoy. :eyetwitch

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MVCp3UY0VTs

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4jq_32HCfPM

BTW, just went over 38k, 13k since the SC and @ 700 miles since the syncro saver. Got up this morning, drove an hour to Brooksville, nine autocross laps, drove back home and spanked a riced celica and later a scion tC. No problems, no issues, life is good. :wiggle:

Looking Good Juan :)

Nice to see you are putting the Syncro Saver to good use :)

All orders have been shipped out still have some in stock

Time to jump on the bandwagon. :)

I just changed my trans. fluid this weekend and had about 1/4" of metal shaving mud on the magnetic bolt.

Got word that it shipped out today! Thanks for the quick turn around!

No Problem!

this thread has convinced me enough, ordered just now!! can't wait to see the improvement.

Orders shipped!

Installed mine tonight. I found I had to remove the inner boot because it would bunch up on the bracket and I couldn't get in to 1st and 2nd with the inner boot on. I pulled it off and it's works fine. Just an FYI for people that you may not be able to fit the inner boot over the bracket after it's installed.

Other than that it works great and feels fine.

How much do you notice a change in feel? Is it obvious or very subtle?

i have to get these...

i def used to push on the shift knob sometimes when in gear. always wondered what the noise was
now i know! wish i hadnt done that.

Installed mine tonight. I found I had to remove the inner boot because it would bunch up on the bracket and I couldn't get in to 1st and 2nd with the inner boot on. I pulled it off and it's works fine. Just an FYI for people that you may not be able to fit the inner boot over the bracket after it's installed.

Other than that it works great and feels fine.

Congrats! :eyetwitch

You will need to muscle down the inner rubber boot over the syncro saver plate but it will fit as shown on the picture.

http://www.rx8club.com/showpost.php?p=2846975&postcount=72

Congrats! :eyetwitch

You will need to muscle down the inner rubber boot over the syncro saver plate but it will fit as shown on the picture.

http://www.rx8club.com/showpost.php?p=2846975&postcount=72

Thanks. Yeah I definitely want to put it back on. I drove it this morning and the shifting feels great except there is now a lot more mechanical noise coming in to the cockpit through the shifter opening. I'll either muscle it or put it on under the synchro saver.

Edit: I just put the synchro saver on top of the rubber boot instead of underneath it and problem solved! Works like a champ! :)


driving review:
The shifting still feels as nice as it did before except now the positive stop gives nice feedback and a precise feel. I really like it driving through town. It goes in and goes no further just as advertised. the pictures and instructions are straightforward. I was already comfortable with what I was going to do ahead of time though since I've taken out my shifter and stereo before so I had an advantage. the pictures were definitely helpful and well done. Only thing that would have been nice is putting it all in a PDF file or even a link to an online instruction sheet. I had to open the instructions and pictures separately on my wife's Mac.

Only one thing I noticed is that my shifter hits the lower bolt head when I put it in to reverse. It still goes in correctly but it stops on the bolt head rather than the bracket stop. A short shifter may solve this. :) A thought might be to try and find a lower profile bolt head or a smaller bolt. Another option is to grind a little metal off the shifter. This may not affect all people as it could just be a tolerance stack thing.

So you want to hear/see what the Fluid Motorsports Syncro Saver sounds/feel like. Grab a bag of your favorite unhealthy snack and take a look/hear the video link. The click you hear after every shift is my shifter (AF Short Shifter) hitting the Syncro Saver thus letting me know that I no longer need to apply shifting force and also to let me know that it is in the selected gear position. It does the same while autocrossing, drag racing, VTEC Dez MF, Drive-It-Like-You-Stole-It mode or listening to Vanilla Ice (Ice-Ice Baby) at full volume by giving me touch-feedback. Enjoy :eyetwitch

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FMUA1XYiLrQ

^ Very cool, sounds awesome. Thanks for sharing. Can't wait to get mine :)

Can't wait until mine arrives! Thanks Brice!!

After getting some customer feedback on the matter of pricing we are doing a price reduction to $125.

The updated price is on the website for ordering purposes.

hmmmm... looks cool, sounds awesome, What to doo what to dooo

ORDERED! YAY!!

Not to much i can say about this product. took about 15 minutes to install, still need a little adjusting from 3rd to 4th gear. But other then that...

I ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT!!!

Going from 1st to 2nd, 2nd to 3rd and back from 3rd to 2nd feels awesome!! its really nice and firm when you get into gear. I noticed i attend to hold the shifter alot when accelerating and might not realize it but you pull back on it, and im sure others do too!! well this has stopped me from doing so. it just feels great!!

Glad you are loving it Mark. :)

This is a great product. I love the way the shifter hits the syncro saver plate & make a light metallic click noise. Now I can confidently hit the gears when I am out on the track & not have to worry about over shifting from 1st up to 2nd or from 3rd down to 2nd.

Thanks Brice for bring out this product for the RX8 community.

This is a great product. I love the way the shifter hits the syncro saver plate & make a light metallic click noise. Now I can confidently hit the gears when I am out on the track & not have to worry about over shifting from 1st up to 2nd or from 3rd down to 2nd.

Thanks Brice for bring out this product for the RX8 community.

You are welcome!

This thing is sick! a must have for anyone that likes to shift fast and enjoys the af short shifter.

Before this, I would shift from 1st to 2nd and hear a tick sound 2nd to 3rd and hear a tick sound like something was niping and my smoth shifts where hit and miss. Now they are all smoth and my car just got better!
Thank you Bric and thanks AJ for the xmas gift!

Here is my install and review (so far). For those who wonder the material is painted heavy gauge stainless steel. Basically, too heavy to be aluminum and it does not attract a heavy magnet). For those that keep saying that the stock OEM shifter plate acts as a shift lever stopper I’m afraid to say that it doesn’t. It just holds the shift lever down in place. At least with an AF short shifter like mine. There is about ½” distance between the shifter and the transmission OEM shifter holding plate after positioning the shifter on 1, 2, 3, 4 gears.

There were no installations with the kit but it is pretty much straight forward. Remove the shifter knob, shifter console, shifter outer rubber boot, shifter inner boot and the three shifter holding plate bolts.

Then install the syncro saver plate and use the provided three longer bolts to attach it to the transmission. Use you hand calibrated torque wrench to properly torque the bolts down. I figure 10~13 foot pounds since the head of the bolts are serrated to prevent loosening. Once the plate is bolted down move the shifter to the first gear position and move the front adjustable plate so it will touch/kiss the shifter. Hand tight the front adjustable plate bolts and move the shifter to the second gear position. Do the same with the read adjustable plate and proceed to third and fourth gear.

Before you torque the adjustable plate bolts down start the car and with the clutch down recheck the adjustable plates position while going thru all gear positions. Turn of the car and torque down the bolts.

You will need to muscle down the inner rubber boot over the syncro saver plate but it will fit as shown on the picture. Reinstall the rest of the shifter parts and take the car for a spin. You will hear and feel as the shifter hits the syncro saver plate.

I will take the car to work on Wednesday (140 miles roundtrip) and provide more feedback to include a trip down to Moroso on February 13th as I’m planning to step into the 12s seconds ¼ mile club. :eyetwitch

I'm having problems with the skirt on my standard factory shifter hitting the bolts and causing whining/grinding noises - maybe something to do with my car being RHD. Where do I get this Axial Flow short shifter? It seems it cannot suffer the same problem by nature of its design.

thx

I'm having problems with the skirt on my standard factory shifter hitting the bolts and causing whining/grinding noises - maybe something to do with my car being RHD. Where do I get this Axial Flow short shifter? It seems it cannot suffer the same problem by nature of its design.

thx

Hymee is a distributor in Australia if I am not mistaken.

This product is awesome, just awesome.

Hymee is a distributor in Australia if I am not mistaken.

Thanks! I've decided to try Hex Bolts to see if I get clearance that way - if not I'll go visit Hymee.

Thanks! I've decided to try Hex Bolts to see if I get clearance that way - if not I'll go visit Hymee.

PROBLEM SOLVED with $10 worth of stainless steel hex bolts!