Differences between these two port installed shift knobs?

[kechang]

Originally Posted by MadZarBMR

Here is my custom setup thanks to IND-Distribution

Attachment 1712376

PERFECT! I think that's the exact setup I want to do, I'm waiting for IND to reply but did you also get the parallel stitching alcantara boot with standard knob from IND?

[MadZarBMR]

Originally Posted by kechang

PERFECT! I think that's the exact setup I want to do, I'm waiting for IND to reply but did you also get the parallel stitching alcantara boot with standard knob from IND?

Yes, the OEM lighted shift knob with straight stitched Alcantara boot was custom made by IND-Distribution. For some reason, they don't sell this combo on their site which I think they should because I think it is the perfect combo and would be very popular. I have yet to hear anyone say they are in love with the new BMW M Performance version.

Here is another shot

[kechang]

Originally Posted by MadZarBMR

Yes, the OEM lighted shift knob with straight stitched Alcantara boot was custom made by IND-Distribution. For some reason, they don't sell this combo on their site which I think they should because I think it is the perfect combo and would be very popular. I have yet to hear anyone say they are in love with the new BMW M Performance version.

Here is another shot
Attachment 1714245

gonna place an custom order with IND soon, Ryan just got back to me on the pricing and MAN THEY ARE EXPENSIVE but then again like you mentioned in your build thread, it completes the look and it's custom made with OEM core! gotta pay to play

[Aaaaaaaaa]

Originally Posted by kechang

gonna place an custom order with IND soon, Ryan just got back to me on the pricing and MAN THEY ARE EXPENSIVE but then again like you mentioned in your build thread, it completes the look and it's custom made with OEM core! gotta pay to play

Probably because the boot isn't separate from the knob. They'll have to buy an OEM knob, cut off the boot then custom attach their alcantara boot to the OEM knob.

[Aaaaaaaaa]

Originally Posted by MadZarBMR

That is correct - I had this in my F30 and an iND modified version in my F80 before I ordered a custom OEM with M stitching from iND.

How did Z2S feel otherwise? Looks like my car will end up with the non-lighted knob meant for the F30. Not sure I'll be happy with it since the stitching doesn't match and it doesn't light up...

[MadZarBMR]

Originally Posted by pheerlx

Probably because the boot isn't separate from the knob. They'll have to buy an OEM knob, cut off the boot then custom attach their alcantara boot to the OEM knob.

That is exactly what they do and they do an amazing job. Well worth the price IMO.

[MadZarBMR]

Originally Posted by pheerlx

How did Z2S feel otherwise? Looks like my car will end up with the non-lighted knob meant for the F30. Not sure I'll be happy with it since the stitching doesn't match and it doesn't light up...

Then consider getting the iND version. Not as expensive and at least the stitching will match. PM them for member discount:
https://ind-distribution.com/product...-F8X-CFTRIBOOT

I had this on my F30 and also the iND version on my F80 when I first got it. Feel is really about your shifting style. I like to place my palm over the knob vs grabbing it from the side so for me, the larger knobs work better (yes, size matters ). For my normal size hands, the OEM knob is perfect whereas the F30 M Performance knob forced me to grab the side of it. It's all about personal preference which is why I didn't mind paying extra for the right look and most importantly feel.

[shay2nak]

The knobs are not heavier than the stock one?

[einscot]

Originally Posted by MadZarBMR

I am surprised they are offering the Z2S CF gear knob w Alcantara boot options since that is for the F3x. Note that the stitch color and pattern will not match F8x.

If you can get the Z5U M Performance Shift Knob for $320 and you like it, get it port installed. You are not going to find a better price and although a simple 15 minute install, some here have had issues with disconnecting the light cable and the force needed to remove the knob. I have personally done it and can tell you it is not for those that are afraid of using a little force.

you only have to pull the OEM knob off, take off the leather boot, unclip the wiring harness, and then reverse for installation right? or do you have to use any tools for changing out the shift stalk? IND has a video on changing the boot, but not the entire shifter. since you've done it i figured i'd ask you directly

[MadZarBMR]

Originally Posted by einscot

you only have to pull the OEM knob off, take off the leather boot, unclip the wiring harness, and then reverse for installation right? or do you have to use any tools for changing out the shift stalk? IND has a video on changing the boot, but not the entire shifter. since you've done it i figured i'd ask you directly

Proper order of steps:

1. Remove boot from base
2. Unclip light wire
3. Remove knob from shifter
4. Reverse for re-install

It is important to note that the knob will take some muscle and does not require any tools. You just have to pull on it like you are going to pull the transmission through the floor. Reason you want to disconnect the wire before you yank on the knob is to prevent from breaking the wire in case you get it caught while pulling off the knob.

Also, the clip for the light cable can be tricky when separated for the first time. Again, no tools needed. Just take your time.

[einscot]

Originally Posted by MadZarBMR

Proper order of steps:

1. Remove boot from base
2. Unclip light wire
3. Remove knob from shifter
4. Reverse for re-install

It is important to note that the knob will take some muscle and does not require any tools. You just have to pull on it like you are going to pull the transmission through the floor. Reason you want to disconnect the wire before you yank on the knob is to prevent from breaking the wire in case you get it caught while pulling off the knob.

Also, the clip for the light cable can be tricky when separated for the first time. Again, no tools needed. Just take your time.

thank you very much!

[einscot]

installed robo schlong this morning. it definitely feels a bit meatier. easier to handle for sure

[Aaaaaaaaa]

Originally Posted by einscot

installed robo schlong this morning. it definitely feels a bit meatier. easier to handle for sure

So how much of a PITA was it? Pics?

[einscot]

Originally Posted by pheerlx

So how much of a PITA was it? Pics?

was pretty quick actually - definitely have to pull hard on the old shifter to release it.

i'll grab some pics this afternoon and post them

[maniz]

Removal isn't bad at all. And IMO it is much better to apply short bouts of high-torque than a sustained pull with mid torque...if that makes sense. It might keep you from banging your fist hard into your face when the knob finally releases.

[hinckley]

So I got word today from my local dealer that Z5U is still shown as an active part but that there is zero available inventory in the US or from Germany. Anyone else hear this?

[kechang]

Originally Posted by hinckley

So I got word today from my local dealer that Z5U is still shown as an active part but that there is zero available inventory in the US or from Germany. Anyone else hear this?

Looks in stock to me from our sponsor

And has Black Friday deal on it, you are welcome

https://www.bmwpartspros.com/partlocator/index.cfm?action=MorePartInfo&PartID=1551324&sitei d=216857&catalogid=8798

[Aaaaaaaaa]

Originally Posted by hinckley

So I got word today from my local dealer that Z5U is still shown as an active part but that there is zero available inventory in the US or from Germany. Anyone else hear this?

Interesting. To my knowledge mine was installed at port last week but I'll check with my CA. Did your dealer say whether Z5U is the carbon fiber one made for the F30 or the "Robocop" one with the metallic knob?

[hinckley]

Originally Posted by pheerlx

Interesting. To my knowledge mine was installed at port last week but I'll check with my CA. Did your dealer say whether Z5U is the carbon fiber one made for the F30 or the "Robocop" one with the metallic knob?

Ha! No, we're talking the lit Robocop shifter.

Originally Posted by kechang

Looks in stock to me from our sponsor. And has Black Friday deal on it, you are welcome

Thank you, sir. Ordered!

[Aaaaaaaaa]

Originally Posted by hinckley

Ha! No, we're talking the lit Robocop shifter.

Thank you, sir. Ordered!

Hmm guess I'll find out when I take delivery. I've was browsing other cars in dealer inventory and the window sticker showed "M Performance Shift knob" and the pictures showed the CF one made for the F30.

[hinckley]

Originally Posted by pheerlx

Hmm guess I'll find out when I take delivery. I've was browsing other cars in dealer inventory and the window sticker showed "M Performance Shift knob" and the pictures showed the CF one made for the F30.

Ya, I'm not sure it's actually in stock from bmwpartspro. They're a BMW dealer and if they don't have it in stock (which I would doubt), then they'll be accessing the same zero inventory that my guy is. IND is also offering it, but interestingly at a price higher than BMW's list price. But there may be a better chance that they actually have stock.

[shay2nak]

No one knows if these are weighted compared to stock?