Stratmoshphere Push-down Short Shifter Install = PITA
 

I not even going to tell you how long it took to install the piece of ****. In order to get the 4 6mm bolts out, I had to remove my center console. Then putting those freaking spacers in was another pita. The circlip was another pita. But over all I am happy with the shifter, shifts really well. Does anyone know if you can make the throws any shorter by adjusting the linkage and shifter bolts.

It's really only a PITA the first time...
 

I spent over 4 hours doing mine the first time...running back and forth to the hardware store in the process.

Repeated attempts (on other people's cars) have brought the process down to 45 minutes, taking my time.

Sometimes it's better to find someone local whose has already BTDT.

the same applies to women.

How many trips to the hardware store?

Having the right tools is also a must.

Re: "PITA the first time"
 

I guess that depends on your hardware =)

What special tools are needed?
 

I'm expecting my SS to arrive this week and do the install on Saturday. What should I pick up this week to avoid the trips to the hardware store on the weekend?

Tools...
 

Circlip pliers
Torx bits
8mm and 10mm sockets, with a shallow 1/4" drive socket wrench, and a 3" 1/4"drive extension
Magnetic pick up tool with telescoping end
6mm allen head socket with 3/8" socket wrench and 6" extension (do NOT use a little allen key on this bolt...you need to get a lot of torque on it to loosen it, since it's snugged in place with loctite).
Loctite (blue)
Directions from RS4.org on short shifter install. Their approach is like Paul's write up in the tech section...remove the whole assembly, then work on replacing the short shifter. My first time doing the SS install in the A4, I tried to remove the shifter piece, leaving the surrounding shifter mechanism in the car. If you look where the two pieces of the stock shifter hinge together, you'll see two 8mm bolt/nuts with very little clearance around them. Complete PITA to remove those two. Turns out, it's a lot easier to pull everything out, and then loosen that bolt/nut combo.

me! mine is supposed to be here the 20th and this weekend is looking open

Neuspeed Non Push Down SS install=first time in about 45 min