T-handle shift knobs!!!
 

Well guys, im stuck up the middle between which T-handle shift knob to get for my cummins! I like the B&M company more than the Hurst company, as ive always run the B&M shifters and had VERY good luck with them. However, the most well known T-handle shift knob on the shelves is the Hurst unit. Im also trying to deicde on the comfort between each handle while shifting. Heres is a pic of both and please vote for your choice on the poll then tell me why you chose that shift knob and why, if your running it etc.

Just moved you here, thought you might get a little better exposure, and more help. :ok:

ok, wasnt sure, we need a gen. diesel forum like everyone else, where all diesl brands/generations can come together

zach i couldnt honestly tell you what one to get as i dont have any experience with them, but they both look cool :D

I have 5 Hurst replies and one other reply, i need some input as to WHY the hurst is better over the B&M...

I voted "other" as I refuse to use the T-handles. The trouble with a T-handle is it will promote you driving with your hand on the handle. Resting your hand on the shifter while driving is about the worst thing you can do to your manual transmission. The weight of your hand and the vibrations of driving will wear stuff out pretty quick. I've read about this in several owners manuals of different cars and from practical application find it to be true.

My Dad has over 300,000 miles on a New Process trans that stick clicks audibly and shifts just as it did when new. NO slop whatsoever. He shifts with just two fingers and never rests his arm on the shifter. I know of several folks with the same trans who ride with their hand on the knob. Their knob was worn smooth and the trans sloppy to shift after only about 50-60 thousand miles. My previous trucks were manual trans trucks and by shifting carefully and never resting my arm on the shifter they shifter like new when I got rid of them, normally after 60k-100k miles.

Just a word of advice, get the T-handle if you want, but do not use it as an arm rest, you'll regret it if you keep the truck for a long time.

With that said, I like the looks of the B&M better :)

George

That is a very good piece of advice. Resting your hand in the shift knob wears out the synchros in a hurry.

i never heard of such a thing......i rest my arm on the arm rest and sometimes dangle my fingers on the shifter, but never put any weight on it.....

other... as i've had the B&M on a 5 speed van before it is not as comfortable as you would think.... if you make it comfortable for the 1-2 shift then the geometry will be off between your arm, wrist, hand, and the shifter for the other shifts and will get old quick..... i'd stay with a ball style shifter if it were me..... those handles above are only somewhat usefull for a floor mount auto shifter that goes forward and backwards....

Good point Benjamin, the angle will only fit just right at one or two locations, not 7 (6 speeds plus Reverse)

See, you learn something new everyday, aren't forums great :)

George