VW A1/A2/A3 Shift Weight

In the early model A1, A2 and A3 platform VW Rabbit, Scirocco, Jetta, Convertible and Pickup/Caddy models with the 020 transaxle, adding weight to the longer sift rod can help improve shifting feel. In fact, so much so, that in the A3 models, VW included a weighted shift rod. The weight adds mass/momentum to the shift rod to help push the transaxle into the next gear. This is a great help, especially if the shifter throw has been shortened. With the shorter throw, the driver has less leverage on the shift linkage and the added mass can help overcome the loss of leverage. Plus, the all metal rod ends replace the sloppy plastic bushings the factory used.

OpenSCAD file includes customizer parameters to make the various versions of the shift weight.

This model can be used to create a clamp on weight or a machined billet weight with ball stud rod ends, as seen in the first photo. These can replace the factory plastic bushings on the shift rod with all metal ball studs rod ends, simi