First off hello to everyone. This is my first post here. I've been lurking around for a bit and reading up on performance upgrades for my 02 GT. I just got it about a week ago and have found a wealth of information on this board.

Anyways, the first thing I have decided to do is replace the shifter. I just don't like the way the stock one shifts. It seems 2nd gear is really hard to get into like it almost doesn't want to go. I'm thinking of getting this one:

http://www.stangsuspension.com/store...p?idproduct=91

I was wondering if anyone has had experience putting one in themselves. Is it difficult to do on your own? Thanks for any info.

 

A new shifter won't help that. My car is the same way and sometimes, it's so stubborn that I shift into 4th instead. However, go ahead and get the shifter. You will not be disappointed at the results.
As for installation, very easy. Simple pop the leather boot retainer off, unbolt the rubber boot underneath, unbolt the shifter, take the plastic bushing from the bottom of the shift and put it on your shifter, and put everything back on.
Here's a link for th detailed instructions: http://www.steeda.com/instructions/Tri-AxT5.htm

 

Cool, I didn't think it looked that difficult. I guess the 2nd gear thing is something I'm just going to have to live with? It's not so bad that I shift into fourth but it can be a pain in the ****. I will get the shifter anyway because it was something I was planning to do regardless. I may move it down on the priority list now. I'm thinking either new gears or headers/x-pipe to start off with. Oh well, thanks for the info.

 

So there is no fix for the sometimes difficult shift into second gear? What causes that?

 

It's just the TR3650 being rough. However, there was a recall in which the dealer was supposed to replace the synchros for 2nd gear so if you never had that done, it could be that.