I installed the MSA Short Shifter and it works fine but I wonder why the shifter knob is that heavy. It seems that the knob is an original Nissan part 32865-35F00. Can you tell me what the advantage of a relativly heavyweight knob is compared to a light one ?

I installed the MSA Short Shifter and it works fine but I wonder why the shifter knob is that heavy. It seems that the knob is an original Nissan part 32865-35F00. Can you tell me what the advantage of a relativly heavyweight knob is compared to a light one ?

Realistically very little, and the very small penalty for the extra weight probably outweighs the even smaller benefit to shifting. I think the idea is that the heavier knob gives you more leverage on the stick so requires less effort to actually push the shift ring over the synchro and onto the gear cluster.

After trying to use an actual 8 ball in a Z, I can tell you that a heavy shift knob will also vibrate and make noise if the shifter bushings are even very slightly loose, where a standard weight knob won't.

Works as a mass damper. Reduces perceived vibration.

Merged the pair of identical threads.

Will the stock knob fit the MSA shifter?