Dinan 335i SSK used in M3

[Solo_M_Tech]

So I've been doing a little research, and can't come up with a definitive answer as to why the Dinan SSK designed for the 335i (N54) wouldn't work in the E90 M3.

Both the 335i and the M3 use the same exact shifter cup bearing, meaning that technically, the Dinan shifter would mount into the shifter bracket the same.

Both SSR's have different numbers, but the SSR retaining clip is the same part number as well, leading me to believe the pins are the same diameter.

All this means is the 335i Dinan shifter assembly, should, in theory mount into the M3 as OE.

I have one on order, and I will post back once I attempt the install.

I called dinan to ask for technical advice and all I got in return was " we've never tried, but do not offer a SSK for the E9x m3."

If anyone has already attempted this, and it either worked or not, lmk. Thanks.

[C-los]

the only real reason i could see it not 'working' is due to the lengths of the selector rod and lower attachment point of the shifter itself.

the 335i trans may be longer or shorter, causing the difference in the selector rod, which in turn would cause a different angle on the bottom of the shifter.
So, in theory it may work, or your shifter may just be too far forward or backwards due to incompatible lengths.

good luck!

[Solo_M_Tech]

Originally Posted by C-los

the only real reason i could see it not 'working' is due to the lengths of the selector rod and lower attachment point of the shifter itself.

the 335i trans may be longer or shorter, causing the difference in the selector rod, which in turn would cause a different angle on the bottom of the shifter.
So, in theory it may work, or your shifter may just be too far forward or backwards due to incompatible lengths.

good luck!

My biggest fear is the selector rod pin diameter being different. The shifter shaft itself is straight from the pivot point down, on both shifters, so Im hoping that if the selector shaft pin diameter is the same, the rest will work.

Shifter is on order from Dinan, so by mid/late next week we will know for sure.

[C-los]

curious as to why not just get one that's designed specifically for the M?

[Solo_M_Tech]

Originally Posted by C-los

curious as to why not just get one that's designed specifically for the M?

Because UUC is the only one out there that's reasonably priced, and I've seen the little allen bolts they use break off with track use. At the cost of the rogue one, I might as well spend alittle more and get a chassis mount.

The dinan route is less that $250 and if it works, would be a budget way for us to get a SSK. Just because Dinan didn't see the need to produce an M3 specific solution for us, doesn't mean they actually didn't.

[amrazM]

Lever is the same, the only real difference is the selector rod.

Just get an rtd shifter.

[Solo_M_Tech]

Originally Posted by amrazM

Lever is the same, the only real difference is the selector rod.

Just get an rtd shifter.

I daily this car and don't need to spend $800 on a shifter. Thank you.

[Solo_M_Tech]

I wanted to update this thread. Shifter assembly has arrived, didn't have time today to install it. Had to do an E60 M5 rod bearing R&R and that took 90% of my day.

I will have it installed this weekend, and post an in depth walk through.

[Solo_M_Tech]

Ok so here is the news. It fits and performs perfectly. Shifts are shorter, more precise, more mechanical. I was in a hurry and forgot to snap pics, but simply follow Dinans instructions for the 335i, and you'll be golden.

This is a simple, quick way to get an easy 10-20%(dinan states 20% for the 335i, and our shifter is already shorter, so this is my estimate) reduction in throw, and a more solid shift feel. Al for less that $250.

Note, don't lose the selector rod retaining clip.

[Inluvwithastr1pper]

Originally Posted by Fubar_M3

Ok so here is the news. It fits and performs perfectly. Shifts are shorter, more precise, more mechanical. I was in a hurry and forgot to snap pics, but simply follow Dinans instructions for the 335i, and you'll be golden.

This is a simple, quick way to get an easy 10-20%(dinan states 20% for the 335i, and our shifter is already shorter, so this is my estimate) reduction in throw, and a more solid shift feel. Al for less that $250.

Note, don't lose the selector rod retaining clip.

Awesome find. Thanks for trying it out and sharing. Surprised there isn't more reactions on this.

How's it feel after having it for a couple of days?

[Solo_M_Tech]

Originally Posted by Inluvwithastr1pper

Awesome find. Thanks for trying it out and sharing. Surprised there isn't more reactions on this.

How's it feel after having it for a couple of days?

I love it. ery mechanical feeling. The shifter position is improved as well. It's perfect.

[vincE92M3]

Nice work! Mind snapping a few pics when you get a chance?

How's the shift feel between 1st and 2nd?

Any quirks now that you've had some time with it?

[Solo_M_Tech]

Originally Posted by vincE92M3

Nice work! Mind snapping a few pics when you get a chance?

How's the shift feel between 1st and 2nd?

Any quirks now that you've had some time with it?

First to second is more direct and mechanical feeling than with the stock unit. I don have any issues engaging second at wot. No weird quirks or anything. It's an improvement overall.

[vincE92M3]

Originally Posted by Fubar_M3

First to second is more direct and mechanical feeling than with the stock unit. I don have any issues engaging second at wot. No weird quirks or anything. It's an improvement overall.

Nice! You mentioned the shifter position improving.

Care to elaborate? Does it sit the same height or shorter?

Thanks

[6ixSpd]

Great news! I'd live to give this a try.

[Solo_M_Tech]

Originally Posted by vincE92M3

Nice! You mentioned the shifter position improving.

Care to elaborate? Does it sit the same height or shorter?

Thanks

Shifter height is about the same as the stock set up, when using the ZHP or F10 knob. The position is improved because 1st,3rd,5th gear position doesn't slam my knuckles into the radio trim anymore and the 2nd, 4th and 6th is exactly the same as stock.

[Drifter2090]

Was looking and an auto-solutions kit but this has me more interested for the price!

I'm mainly looking to get rid of some of the notchiness, how is it with the Dinan kit? Does the snifter go into gear smoother than stock? And is it more effort to move than stock?

Thanks! Sorry for bumping and old thread!

[Solo_M_Tech]

Originally Posted by Drifter2090

Was looking and an auto-solutions kit but this has me more interested for the price!

I'm mainly looking to get rid of some of the notchiness, how is it with the Dinan kit? Does the snifter go into gear smoother than stock? And is it more effort to move than stock?

Thanks! Sorry for bumping and old thread!

smoother than stock and more mechanical. it has a metal on metal pivot and ball socket. couple this with the solid shifter carrier bushings and the shift feel is similar to the auto solutions kit.

[yoslow]

Not super familiar with SSK's, but would this lower the shift knob height? Debating between getting this as an upgrade or an f10 shift knob

[shimmy23]

Looks like it's on sale for $199

Solo can you confirm the PN?

Too bad we don't have a side by side shot of these to compare.

[Drifter2090]

Originally Posted by Solo_M_Tech

smoother than stock and more mechanical. it has a metal on metal pivot and ball socket. couple this with the solid shifter carrier bushings and the shift feel is similar to the auto solutions kit.

Ah that sounds pretty good, just wish it didn't rotate the knob. I might just give it a try. I can only find a video on it for a 325i, any way you'd be able to make a quick video of you going through the gears?

[tigermack]

Originally Posted by shimmy23

Looks like it's on sale for $199

Solo can you confirm the PN?

Too bad we don't have a side by side shot of these to compare.

It should be D550-1005.