E46 "ZHP" Shift Knob

[Brad D.]

I wanted a new, simple upgrade to install so I ordered a new shift knob for my car. I like leather as metal knobs get way too hot. I had a leather "ergonomic" knob but felt it was a bit tall for my taste. After doing a bit of reading I found that the E46 330i with the ZHP package had a shorter shift knob that was weighted for better shift feel. I ordered the knob and it came with the 5spd "M" insert. I am not crazy about the silver trim ring, but it doesn't look too bad and I could always paint it if I tire of it. The knob feels very nice and the shorted height is exactly what I wanted. The biggest difference though is in the weight of the knob. Since I am using a z4 3.0 lever which is a bit notchy, it makes a huge improvement in shift feel. It somehow makes the shifts feel much less notchy. I am very pleased with the knob. Here are some pics to compare the height difference of the two knobs.
Original Knob

ZHP Knob

[Evan]

I love short knobs....makes the throw feel even shorter. I have a UUC Rob Knob 2 (I think....its the heaviest one they make) and being made of metal, you are right about it getting too hot, but fortunately living in Seattle it isn't too bad for very long! The e46 ZHP knob looks very nice in your car!

[Jake D]

Nice call!

I have this knob in my e36 and I love it!!
I would love to have another for my e28.

[wkohler]

I've got a couple of weighted knobs - a [ur=http://www.whalenshiftmachine.com/index ... beb2450503]Whalen Shift Machine[/url] and a UUC Rob Knob.

They were alright. I went back and forth on the feel. I ended up preferring the knob you were using before.

[Scottinva]

I like everything but the ring on the new knob. I tried some other setup, and went with a knob similar to the one you are using now, and for the shifter rod, I welded like an inch onto the bottom section, and angled it nice. It shifts very crisp, with no play. Plus its a near free upgrade.