Why do some people prefer the broomstick E46 M3 shift knob over the ZHP shift knob

[bagger]

I was able to tap it down pretty firmly and it feels tight, but I haven't driven the car since the install. Hopefully it stays put.

[zzyzx85]

it hasn't come off in my hand while I'm driving as I'm not pulling up on the knob (and can't see how I would do that while driving) and it slips on kind of tight. I'd just rather know it is a little more secure if the tabs inside the knob latched onto the shifter. time will tell how well it stays on. I'm liking the slight increase in leverage.

[Getgonz]

Forgive me guys, So there’s a weighted version that’s the same height as my stock m3 shifter, but it does not include a boot and doesn’t light up like stock correct?

[Slideways]

Forgive me guys, So there’s a weighted version that’s the same height as my stock m3 shifter, but it does not include a boot and doesn’t light up like stock correct?

Yes, part number should end in 884

[George Hill]

25117896884

[Tbonem3]

It's the shit

[theOracle]

That’s what I’m using. Paired with the M performance alcantara boot. Looks awesome and feels great with the AS SSK.

[Cubieman]

Same here, great setup.

[sasha]

I’m also running the weighted broomstick on a Dinan SSK, very pleased. I had a ZHP knob on it when I brough the car and it was far too notchy and high force to engage. My current set up feels balanced and still good mechanical feel.

The Alcantara boot is also great being I have a ZCP. I honestly think it would have made sense to do that from factory for ZCP.

[PetrolM3]

Weighted broomstick for the win! Had one in my M3, and now in my non-M ZF 6MT. It improves the shifting experience substantially, I can't believe BMW didn't make this shifter stock instead of the lightweight unit. Pretty sure the weighted unit was made for the E60 which is ridiculous how late BMW clued in on benefits of heavier shift knobs. We are lucky to be able to upgrade with this and reuse the original boot once the shift knob is cut off.

It looks like 25117896884 is going to become stupid expensive, just like the steering wheel. Price has doubled since 3 years ago. Better get a spare now if you think you'll need a fresh unit in the future!

[zzyzx85]

do you guys with the 884 knob and AS shifters have an issue with the knob not "clicking" onto the shifter when installed? Mine seems to be loose on the shifter and went back to the ZHP.

[sasha]

Weighted broomstick for the win! Had one in my M3, and now in my non-M ZF 6MT. It improves the shifting experience substantially, I can't believe BMW didn't make this shifter stock instead of the lightweight unit. Pretty sure the weighted unit was made for the E60 which is ridiculous how late BMW clued in on benefits of heavier shift knobs. We are lucky to be able to upgrade with this and reuse the original boot once the shift knob is cut off.

It looks like 25117896884 is going to become stupid expensive, just like the steering wheel. Price has doubled since 3 years ago. Better get a spare now if you think you'll need a fresh unit in the future!

I searched the current cost of 884 and noticed 25117836906. Anyone ever use this? Seems like an illuminated version of 884?

from FCP:

The weight improves shift feel and feedback through the shifter. It will also help improve engagement and provide the feel that all enthusiasts are looking for. This shift knob is wrapped in black leather and has an illuminated emblem and shift pattern which is sure to add some visual appeal to your vehicle at night.

[PetrolM3]

do you guys with the 884 knob and AS shifters have an issue with the knob not "clicking" onto the shifter when installed? Mine seems to be loose on the shifter and went back to the ZHP.

I had AS with 884 and it 'clicked'. No issues post install for years...

[PetrolM3]

I searched the current cost of 884 and noticed 25117836906. Anyone ever use this? Seems like an illuminated version of 884?

from FCP:

The weight improves shift feel and feedback through the shifter. It will also help improve engagement and provide the feel that all enthusiasts are looking for. This shift knob is wrapped in black leather and has an illuminated emblem and shift pattern which is sure to add some visual appeal to your vehicle at night.

Yeah it appears that knob is both weighted and illuminated. Though that's quite an expensive price for illumination which is useless, at least relative to the weighted benefit.

[old///MFanatic]

I searched the current cost of 884 and noticed 25117836906. Anyone ever use this? Seems like an illuminated version of 884?
from FCP:
The weight improves shift feel and feedback through the shifter. It will also help improve engagement and provide the feel that all enthusiasts are looking for. This shift knob is wrapped in black leather and has an illuminated emblem and shift pattern which is sure to add some visual appeal to your vehicle at night.

Odd is that ECS doesn’t say anything about that one being weighted.
The seams are different than the .884 if that matters to anyone.
For ~$475 one would hope it’s weighted. They show it as originally on the Z4.