FAQ
Why use our shift controllers?
1. Most autos shift when the computer tells them and this is usually not when you want them to shift when off roading.
2. When doing a swap to an auto you don't need the TCU and wiring harnesses to make it work. Yes you have to manually shift them but it really is pretty easy to drive that way. I do it.
3. Being able to start in any gear, it's nice to start in 2nd or 3rd in low range sometimes.
4. My current floor shifters allow direct forward to reverse shifting from any gear. I hope the Nissan trans. will allow this, so far from my research I believe it's possible.
Here are the most frequently asked questions from e-mails and phone conversations.
Q: Do I still need my factory TCM? A: No the factory TCM is not required, but can be used.
Q: Do I still need the factory floor shifter? A: Yes the factory floor shifter is still needed, it is used for P-R-N and to put transmission into the forward gear mode.
Q: Can I still use the TCM with your shifter? A: Yes, by adding switches you can choose between the factory TCM or your choice of our shifter. Use the TCM to get to and from the trail and our shifter while on the trail.
A: No, my research is that the TC lock up if for highway cruising in 3rd or 4th gear only, many have said they use the TC lock up to help with engine braking while 4 wheeling. The TC is not designed to perform under these high torque circumstances.
A: Different characteristics of engine braking can be achieved by changing the floor shifter from OD to the 3 or 1-2 position. You don't get improved engine braking in 1st & 2nd with the floor shifter in OD or D. Remember it's still an electro/mechanical automatic transmission.
Q: What are the differences between the Rail and Baja shifters? A: The biggest diference is the size of course and also the more positive gating of the Baja, both have the same very simple wiring install.
Q: Will these shifters hold my transmission in first gear?
A: Yes you can hold your transmission in any gear, and in doing so it also allows you to start in any gear.
A: Use the Contact page or e-mail you will generally have an answer that same day. If you include a phone number and the best time to reach you I'll be more than happy to phone you.
Rock Shifter FAQ
Q: Do I still need my factory TCM with the Rock shifter? A: No the factory TCM is not required but can be used.
Q: Do I need a Rail or a Baja to use the Rock shifter? A: No, it is just a replacement of the factory floor shifter.
Q: Does change forward gear selection have any effect on engine braking? A: Yes, by placing the floor shifter in the D or 1-2 postion allow for increased engine braking in the lower gears. This being said the draw back is that you can only have 1st and 2nd when the floor shifter is in the 1-2 position, you can get 1st, 2nd and 3rd when the floor shifter is in the D position, and of course all 4 gears when the floor shifter is in the OD position. Normal trail condition usually are limited to shifting between two gears, so choose the gear position of the floor shifter to give the best trail performance.
Q: What's needed to install the Rock shifter? A: (1) In the stock location nothing else is required, just remove the factory shifter and replace it with a Rock shifter.
(2) In the set back location a small amopunt of fab work is needed to mount it where you choose.