Installing new magnetic paddle shifters - tips, photos, DIY how-to instructions

[GTP]

I tried some of those stick-on Shifters Extensions. They stuck up where you could see them, but because they were stuck to the original Plastic Paddles, they put too much torque on the Plastic Paddle.

They would Twist, but not activate the Switch.

Decided to go with 3D Laser Printed Aluminum Paddles that I polished to look like Chrome. Only problem was trying to get the stick-on Paddles Unstuck. Ended up destroying them. Had to get them off because they blocked the spring access hole. New Paddles have a Dowel type pin that can be pushed in or pulled out from the bottom of the Paddle. They also act as the hinge.

Are you saying you replaced the paddles on OEM switches?

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[4sdvenom]

Are you saying you replaced the paddles on OEM switches?

No, he replaced the entire paddle and switch assembly.

 

[JWS]

https://www.mustang6g.com/forums/threads/gt350-le-you-dont-see-this-every-day.79129/page-5

 

[The stang dude]

Those look good but not sure they are in business anymore. Web site is down.

 

[JWS]

Those look good but not sure they are in business anymore. Web site is down.

For Quite a while now. Guess not enough customers, but good service.

 

[Flyhalf]

Well done !

 

[Sig556]

GTP, Your explanation and photos are exceptional. You really did your homework. Thanks for this information, Good Stuff!

 

[compprep]

I purchased them yrs ago. The metal one's in post #18.
Left them as printed. Like them.
I only replaced the paddles.

 

[JWS]

I purchased them yrs ago. The metal one's in post #18.
Left them as printed. Like them.
I only replaced the paddles.

I wanted to go with the GT500 Paddles, but they were Magnesium and cost around $6-800 from Ford Parts. Sort of like how the GTD Paddles are so Expensive Now.

 

[V8_MOTOR]

Now see if you can remove your airbag. If they are anything like mine, you will not be able to put a pin in to decompress the spring which allows the removal of the airbag. I installed these a year ago

 

[GTP]

Now see if you can remove your airbag. If they are anything like mine, you will not be able to put a pin in to decompress the spring which allows the removal of the airbag. I installed these a year ago

They really should have designed these to accommodate that.

My next move is to remove the top column cover and check for backside access to the springs. A little worried about damage to the plastic if the two halves grip each other too hard.

 

[GTP]

UPDATE

I was able to separate the top cover from the bottom behind the wheel without much drama. But there still was no access to the airbag springs from behind.

So I had to Dremel a notch into the backside of each shifter so as to not block the access holes to the springs. I bought the pictured bits which worked very well but the cutting process made aluminum dust go everywhere. I did this sitting on a low stool from outside the driver door and rotated the wheel 180 for convenient access to the right side paddle.

Even though the backsides of the paddles don't show, I decided to improve the appearance of the Dremel "wounds". I mixed some black nail polish into a batch of JB Weld and filled the worst part of the notches. Then with a round file I reshaped them. Finally I masked off the switches and painted the area with satin black spray paint.

Last photo is the 3mm T-handle hex key that worked best to insert and push against the airbag springs.

Finally, if you decide to install these magnetic paddles shifters, the notch is located 3/8" from the lower side of the switch housing.

 

[GTP]

Of course the whole reason I had to perform the extra surgery is because I bought a nice Steeda steering wheel from a 6g member. Hopefully I can have a lighter grip with this wheel on track .

 

[JWS]

Nice Job Indy! (Philip)

 

[DougS550]

UPDATE

I was able to separate the top cover from the bottom behind the wheel without much drama. But there still was no access to the airbag springs from behind.

So I had to Dremel a notch into the backside of each shifter so as to not block the access holes to the springs. I bought the pictured bits which worked very well but the cutting process made aluminum dust go everywhere. I did this sitting on a low stool from outside the driver door and rotated the wheel 180 for convenient access to the right side paddle.

Even though the backsides of the paddles don't show, I decided to improve the appearance of the Dremel "wounds". I mixed some black nail polish into a batch of JB Weld and filled the worst part of the notches. Then with a round file I reshaped them. Finally I masked off the switches and painted the area with satin black spray paint.

Last photo is the 3mm T-handle hex key that worked best to insert and push against the airbag springs.

Finally, if you decide to install these magnetic paddles shifters, the notch is located 3/8" from the lower side of the switch housing.

When I finally get around to installing mine, I hope I don't forget to Dremel for clearance.

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