How-To: Protege Shifter Bushing Installation

Installing Urethane Shifter Bushings

Applications:
Universal Mazda

Estimated Time: 25 mins

This article will show you how to install replacement urethane shift stabilizer bushings. These replace your stock rubber mounting bushings with urethane ones which stiffen the mounting of the shifter assembly. This helps increase shift-precision and firmer gear engagement.

I noticed it was much easier to engage into reverse with these bushings installed. The "gates" to each gear are much more obvious than before.

Tools you will need:

Jack with Jackstands
14mm deep-socket or open end wrench
Large flat head screwdriver

This is a illustration of where exactly these bushings are mounted. Read below for install instructions

Installation Instructions: (pictures from a 93 Protege LX)
	1a: Jack up the the vehicle. Secure both sides with jackstands. Slide under the car and locate the shifter mounting point.
	1b: NOTE: The downpipe on V6 MX3's, MX6's 626's and Probes is somewhat in the way of the bushings. It may take longer to install since you have to work around it.
	2: Using the 14mm deep-socket or wrench loosen and remove the nut securing the arm. Due to the age of the vehicle, the mounting stud may or may not come out with the nut. Mine came completely off.
	3: Here is how it looks removed.
	4: Now remove the center metal tube. It should slide right out
	6: Using the flat-head screwdriver, press the old bushing out. Mine tore slightly while I did this. I noticed my bushing was already deteriorated in a few places
	7: Comparison photo of Old vs New bushings
	8: Press one of the bushings into the side facing the transmission, put the washer in place, and put the bolt (or nut) along with the washer and bushing as shown. I tried pressing the bushing in myself, but it is such a tight fit I found that tightening the nut with the washer pressing the bushing into the arm is the easiest way.
	8: Tighten the nut and you are done!! Enjoy!