Does anyone know of a gearshift improvement kit suitable for the 1.9 TDi PD gearbox? I have to say the Roomster works for me and is mostly fun to drive but I think the gearchange quality rates as 4/10. The synchro is also easy to beat both up and down the box. This is my 1st ever VW Group car so the characteristics of the gearchange are new to me, but I gather from VW fans that the clunky/slow gearchange is a common feature. I'm wondering if any upgrade kits/parts are available for Fabia/ Polo/ Ibiza with 1.9 TDi PD (BSW) and the 5-speed gearbox. Anyone know about that? Many thanks !!

Sorry, I can't help with an improvement kit.

I have to say I am delighted with the quality of gearshift on mine. But then I have just traded in a Schitroen with a gearshift that felt like I was pushing a pogo stick through a bucket of bolts.

Just a thought - in another thread you mention you are experiencing clutch judder. There may be a link between this, the clunkiness of the change, and the ease with which the synchro can be beaten (e.g. distorted clutch plate). Is you car still under warranty?

Edited 11 October, 200916 yr by Robjon

You could try a short shifter kit. Should be the same as a Golf one or you could try the pikey mod

Lovely phrase! What's the pikey mod ?? Does it have anything to do with lumps of metal ?

Actually yes.

It involves taking your Kn0b off, shaving about 1" off your shaft and refitting the Kn0b to give you the effect of a shorter more precise travel and action.

Actually yes.

It involves taking your Kn0b off, shaving about 1" off your shaft and refitting the Kn0b to give you the effect of a shorter more precise travel and action.

Ooh, sounds painful:D

Only if you don't use the correct apparatus and lubrication....

I suspect there may be something amiss with your transmission or clutch. Might be worth driving a similar model for comparison and/or paying a visit to the dealer.

I regularly drive a 1.9TDI Fabia Mk2 with the same engine and transmission and would rate the gearshift quality very highly - one of the best I've encountered. Even on a cold morning the synchro is sweet and it never 'snicks' into gear.

Conversely the petrol models I've driven (02R transmission IIRC) do have a slightly 'slower' synchro action and its possible to catch the synchro out by doing a fast change when the 'box is cold.

It may be worth trying a different gear oil (e.g. Motul Synth Gear or similar) - but it should really be down to the dealer to do some investigation.

Thanks to all. Yes the car is still under dealer used car warranty so I will discuss with them. 10K service due before too long anyway. I really don't fancy shortening my shaft. The judder isn't violent, but more pronounced when cold. From what I have read elsewhere it seems realignment of the gearbox onto the engine might be a cure. I assume that involves loosening the gearbox, a bit of slight adjustment side to side/ to and fro...., and re-securing.

Cheers good people!

The transmission bellhousing is dowelled to the engine block - you cannot 'realign' the transmission.

Hmm. So the gearbox has to come off. Goes to show misinterpretation of things you read. I will discuss with the dealer. Many thanks.

What no mention of the detailed guide in the guides section? My feelings are hurt :-(

lol

Baz