Acuity centering spring

[vaskaskh]

Hello guys, I’m debating whether I should buy and install the Acuity centering spring on my FL5 Civic Type R.

I’ve seen a lot of YouTube videos and most people say it’s worth trying, but I’m worried about losing the natural shifting feel. I don’t want it to feel too fixed or overly stiff. I actually like that the shifter has a bit of room/play when going into gear (hope that makes sense).

So for those who have used it on the FL5 — is it worth it? Does it make the shifter feel too fixed with no wobble at all?

Ideally, I’d like to reduce some of the center wobble, but not lose the feeling of putting it into gear, because I think Honda really nailed that part.

Thanks!

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[HondaHoon]

Brother, never used that spring. But here is the deal. If I am going to be taking apart my center console, and yes I have done it personally. I am going all the way, and I did. By installing a full shifter assembly such as the Acuity or Hybrid Racing shifter. Of course, both are going to cost you more coin. However, these are by far better than this spring and it is the same amount of work or more depending on how capable you are taking apart the OEM shifter assembly itself. Just my .02 cents. Best of luck either way you decide.

 

[vaskaskh]

taking apart is not problem, i’ve rebuilt car by myself. over 6 months . Rebuilt totaled ctr. I have to say in terms of transmission feel honda really nailed it. Im worried that shifting won’t feel natural and its holding my back.

 

[HondaHoon]

Ok then. You do you.

 

[Amm5890]

Definitely worth it. I’ve since upgraded to their full shifter and it’s even better now.

Alternatively you could do the Hybrid racing detent springs. Gives crisper gear engagement (that notchy feel you’re after) and makes centering more snappy while retaining the stock throw and gate in the H pattern

 

[Spart]

Just get the full shifter and don't look back.

Im worried that shifting won’t feel natural

Don't worry about this even a little bit. It's more intuitive to shift with the Acuity. I set mine up to have only a very slight reduction in throw (with a taller knob height) and you can set it up to have zero reduction in throw or whatever you want. What it gives you at every throw and gate spacing setting is less slop and more consistency. They have three centering springs available and the one it comes with feels great to me, but you could use the stronger one if you prefer.

 

[timestamped]

If you’re going to do the spring (and not the entire shifter), you might as well swap the arm and base bushings while you have it out, it’s all quite subtle, only mildly reduces the sponginess while still feeling smooth and buttery.

And then of course you might as well swap the boot and collar lol

 

[Nothing]

If you’re going to do the spring (and not the entire shifter), you might as well swap the arm and base bushings while you have it out, it’s all quite subtle, only mildly reduces the sponginess while still feeling smooth and buttery.

And then of course you might as well swap the boot and collar lol

Agreed with this, the base bushings and cable bushings are what's going to reduce most of the sponginess, not that there is a whole lot.

Centering spring makes it require more effort. At first I wasn't sure if I liked it, but it grew on me and imo allows for better intentful control. I installed it at the same time as base bushings, cable bushings, and HR detent springs. Detents increase the tactile click into gate feel.

I daily mine, I like it. Maybe some day I'll do the whole shifter. I already took apart the console a second time for the rear vents so that's whatever.

 

[57r4n63r]

Completely agree with the above comments. I did the same for my FK8 and ITS with the full acuity shifter assembly and shifter cable bushings.

If you're gonna upgrade your shifting, go all out even if you have to save up and do it later. It's well worth the money.

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