Gaging interest in resurrecting the Shiftster

[alwaysFlOoReD]

I'm looking at the shiftster I bought ~15 years ago. The plate that bolts on is laser or waterjet cut. The handle is cast aluminum with machining for a c-clip to hold the pieces together. The arrow points to the dot that indicates where neutral is on the opposite side.

 

[sgtsandman]

Talked to the machine shop today. There is good news, and some not so good news.

The good news is that it's not a big deal to make. The new version of the Shiftster, now known as the 'ShiftHappens,' will be a bit different than the original - current design revision will have a one piece CNC cut handle and rotor shaft all made from aluminum. Doing it this way will cut down on final assembly on my end, and hopefully lead to increased durability, etc. Neutral detent will be a feature as well. Still the same idea with a baseplate and spring loaded knob for locking in the correct position. Current plan is to ship as a finished unit with three bolts so that the swap is simple and it can be carried as a kit. Might include a convenient pouch, might not depending on cost.

The 'neutral' news is that increases in material costs and using all american parts and labor is going to lead to a slightly higher price point, around $129 per unit. I can probably get that lower, but will have to sacrifice the "Made in USA" stamp, which I'm not sure I'm willing to do.

The not so good news is that they want to do an initial run of 100-150 units. Not sure if the market is there for them. Unknown.

Comments appreciated.

Everything looked good up until the required number of units that have to be ordered. 100-150 units is quite a commitment if they don't sell well. The suggestion to partner with Affordable Offroad in some way sounds like a good idea. They have better exposure and a name brand reputation, if they are willing to go along with it.