Auto Solutions & UCP Review

Gizmo 335i · 12-06-2020, 08:49 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bimmer98

I got in line Oct 19 and it was shipped on Thursday 12/3.

Pretty stoked, also have a new ultimatel clutch pedal ready to install with some redline aluminum pedal accessories.

I can wait 6 weeks I guess. I also have the UCP ready to go! I already swapped the E9x slave cylinder (CDV delete) and it was a marked improvement. I hope the UCP and SSK are equally transformative.

n8dgr84 · 12-10-2020, 03:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gizmo 335i

I can wait 6 weeks I guess. I also have the UCP ready to go! I already swapped the E9x slave cylinder (CDV delete) and it was a marked improvement. I hope the UCP and SSK are equally transformative.

Can you please elaborate on the CDV delete with part number and how it improved the drive?

Gizmo 335i · 12-10-2020, 08:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by n8dgr84

Can you please elaborate on the CDV delete with part number and how it improved the drive?

With the CDV active, I found it difficult to consistently feather the clutch while the CDV was doing the same. Engagement seemed to be a moving target every time. But with the E9x slave cylinder, I find the engagement point at the same place every time and therefore it easier for me to feather release and power...especially going from 1st to 2nd.

The clutch stop takes away a good amount of dead space between fully depressed and the engagement point.

Mfg Part #21526785964

https://www.ecstuning.com/b-genuine-...r/21526785964/

sfade · 12-15-2020, 10:16 AM

I have the SSK on the way. I did just install the UCP. I put in middle position and only the smaller inner spring. Its a must do, the stock clutch throw is horrible...its like a leg press its so long. I added the clutch stop and that helped but you still have to pick you leg up too high and its not in line with the brake. Horrible design in a car at this price. Shifts are smoother now. Once my SSK gets here and I remove the CDV I will be where I want to be with the transmission.

chief1richard · 12-19-2020, 11:55 AM

Don't understand all the talk of long clutch throw with this car. I never throw my clutch all the way in when shifting. I know exactly how far to throw it just from rote. In three years of ownership have never heard any gears grinding.

doughboy · 12-19-2020, 01:01 PM

Yep the only time i use all the throw is when stationary.

Same with all manuals for me

BMW1973 · 12-20-2020, 07:55 AM

First, I would like to thank members' opinions here.
I installed my UCP a few days ago and I used the stopper which was provided with the product.
I chose the setup which was recommended here: stock location without removing any springs, immediately I noticed it’s a good solid item, but I didn’t like the fact that:
1. After pressing the clutch, it did not return back fast enough as the OEM.
2. The travel was almost the same as my original pedal with a custom 10mm stopper that I made, the UCP felt that the actual engagement was to far at my M2C, So I ended up adding 7mm plastic washer to the original stopper, I made sure that I still have enough travel much before the engagement point, so It will not cause gear issues at the future.
That thing made huge improvement, now the clutch travel is short and it doesn’t bother me that it’s not returning back fast, second I ordered a CVD and may be the slower clutch return will actually work to my advantage.
Now I can say it’s a wonderful mod !

As for the SSK, it's on the way with 70A..

cpxchewy · 12-24-2020, 04:01 PM

Just installed mine. The shifting is so precise now and there's no slop.

I actually didn't take off the prop shaft and was able to wiggle the shifter on and off. YMMV but seems to work fine for me.

bimmer98 · 12-25-2020, 09:21 PM

Got my SSK installed and also did the UCP. Amazing transformation! The clutch pedal is sooo much better. The way it should be. I'm using the stock setting. It's hard to imagine the sport or race setting because this engages the gears so smooth. Shifts in the SSK are really tight and almost zero slop. I don't mind the slight notch. Occasionally engaging 1st and 4th need a little more effort, but there's give and take with any shift mechanisms. The improvements are immediately felt. Almost wish i could have enjoyed the shifter without the new pedal first because the pedal really is the best mod I've ever installed in a BMW. It's that much better. No regerts!

saint3448 · 12-31-2020, 01:59 PM

Got my AutoSolutions shifter installed, picked it up today. AMAZING transformation. Love it. Definitely do this if you're thinking about it.

AKD · 02-13-2021, 05:44 PM

So I find myself in a weird (and quite possibly dumbest) dilemma. My new to me M2C has a UUC SSK installed, which I was all for since the stock shifter feels like a rubbery mess. The UUC feels WAY better than stock, but has a couple of major issues:

Firstly, the dingus who installed it must've not paid much attention to the very clear instructions and the ssk is in BACKWARDS

. This leaves the shifter sitting high and to the right when in neutral and it drives me crazy just looking at it, not to mention any harm it may be doing to the transmission. The shift knob is also canted and not pointing straight, which may or may not be a side effect of the idiotic install.

Secondly, its LOUD AF in all aspects. The NVH is pretty unbearable as it makes a whirring noise at higher RPMs and clanking noise when shifting into a gate. I've read some responses that the AS kit also has issues with the OE shifter, but I didn't know if people found the whirring/clanking so intrusive that they absolutely needed to go with another shift knob.

Since my shop will need to get in there and go through 90% of the original install process to rotate the UUC ssk, I figured it may be worthwhile to swap it out entirely to AS kit. I spoke to Ronald who mentioned that he hasn't heard of any noise complaints for those who have selected 80a bushings and OE shifter, which gives me some confidence that a complete overhaul will be worth it. I'd also be going with a 25% reduction and stock height since the effort of the UUC was just fine (he estimated that UUC's reduction is about 25% as well).

Anything I should be on the lookout for in terms of noise with the AS kit? Or has anyone had any time toying with the UUC ssk and can compare to the AS kit?

flybigjet · 02-13-2021, 08:49 PM

I really like my AS SSK. 74a bushings and a 20% reduction.

No noise that I can hear, but I've admittedly got a lot of high-frequency hearing loss due to over 30 years around jets.

R.

doughboy · 02-14-2021, 03:59 AM

I have AS kit with the hardest bushings (only option at time of purchase) and had bad noise until I fitted a heavy raceseng knob.

Around this time Ronald introduced softer bushing options, maybe why he did this.

AKD · 02-14-2021, 11:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by doughboy

I have AS kit with the hardest bushings (only option at time of purchase) and had bad noise until I fitted a heavy raceseng knob.

Around this time Ronald introduced softer bushing options, maybe why he did this.

I'm assuming these were 95a bushings?

cpxchewy · 02-14-2021, 02:08 PM

I had a noise with the OEM shift knob until I put some athletic tape in the lock slot. I think the clearance of the shift knob and the clearance of the shift knob lock is slightly off so it vibrates at high rpms.

Otherwise it's been the best purchase for my M2

gphung · 02-15-2021, 12:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AKD

So I find myself in a weird (and quite possibly dumbest) dilemma. My new to me M2C has a UUC SSK installed, which I was all for since the stock shifter feels like a rubbery mess. The UUC feels WAY better than stock, but has a couple of major issues:

Firstly, the dingus who installed it must've not paid much attention to the very clear instructions and the ssk is in BACKWARDS

. This leaves the shifter sitting high and to the right when in neutral and it drives me crazy just looking at it, not to mention any harm it may be doing to the transmission. The shift knob is also canted and not pointing straight, which may or may not be a side effect of the idiotic install.

Secondly, its LOUD AF in all aspects. The NVH is pretty unbearable as it makes a whirring noise at higher RPMs and clanking noise when shifting into a gate. I've read some responses that the AS kit also has issues with the OE shifter, but I didn't know if people found the whirring/clanking so intrusive that they absolutely needed to go with another shift knob.

Since my shop will need to get in there and go through 90% of the original install process to rotate the UUC ssk, I figured it may be worthwhile to swap it out entirely to AS kit. I spoke to Ronald who mentioned that he hasn't heard of any noise complaints for those who have selected 80a bushings and OE shifter, which gives me some confidence that a complete overhaul will be worth it. I'd also be going with a 25% reduction and stock height since the effort of the UUC was just fine (he estimated that UUC's reduction is about 25% as well).

Anything I should be on the lookout for in terms of noise with the AS kit? Or has anyone had any time toying with the UUC ssk and can compare to the AS kit?

https://www.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh...php?p=26124818

SEAT TIME RULES · 02-15-2021, 01:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cpxchewy

I had a noise with the OEM shift knob until I put some athletic tape in the lock slot. I think the clearance of the shift knob and the clearance of the shift knob lock is slightly off so it vibrates at high rpms.

Otherwise it's been the best purchase for my M2

Many BMW shifter knobs can buzz, vibrate, etc.

Since they're simply pushed down on the shift rod.

My experience with Raceseng knobs has had zero NVH.

My wifes OEM 2014 335 6 spd knob vibrates if you rest your hand on it.

AKD · 02-18-2021, 02:47 AM

Screw it, might as well go for the best if it's out there. Put in an order for a 25% reduction with his prototype bushings (95a response but 80a NVH). Should get the kit in March.

n8dgr84 · 02-20-2021, 06:14 PM

Just installed the UCP!

I am using it with the small spring only and no overcenter spring.

Clutch engagement is nice and easy ; low and less tiring.

romeo_f · 02-22-2021, 09:47 AM

I just installed mine on my 20 m2c and I can confirm that you can get around this without removing the prop shaft, you will have to lower the transmission like and inch and the once you unclip the selector rod from the shift lever it'll wiggle right out, to put the new one you will have to wiggle the shift arm alone and bolt it on, and from inside the car you will have to install the shift lever (tightening those 6 allen bolts WILL be a pita).

BMW1973 · 03-22-2021, 01:41 PM

I installed the SSK 22.5% + 70a bushings, few days ago.It shifted my driving experience to a different level:
1 The gear change is so fast now that there is no annoying leg/hesitation time between first to second gear.
2 The tight tolerance reminds me of the H Ferrari old gears, it is so much fun and such an engaging experience.

3 Ronald is an amazing person- customizing the shipter to my driving needs and excellent communication until the product was installed.

AKD · 05-04-2021, 11:49 PM

Finally had my 25% 85a installed this morning and...just wow. It's so precise and has absolutely zero slop. The gates are so well defined and the throws feel so much more mechanical. Hands down the most satisfying mod I've ever done. Ronald is the man.

Here's a comparison to the craptastic UUC shifter. Not only was it misaligned and sloppy, but it made a terrible noise whirring noise since the shift nob wouldn't sit completely flush. Didn't matter how hare you pushed it down. None of these issue plague the AS kit.

UUC SSK: https://1drv.ms/v/s!ArSMX3P4c2vlhPNm...JP97g?e=Yja2hF

AS SSK: https://1drv.ms/v/s!ArSMX3P4c2vlhPVhnv9fDeLGNAdmRQ

12-15-2020, 10:16 AM	#290
sfade New Member 15 Rep 15 Posts Drives: 2020 M2 Comp Join Date: Nov 2020 Location: Florida iTrader: (0)	UCP is really good I have the SSK on the way. I did just install the UCP. I put in middle position and only the smaller inner spring. Its a must do, the stock clutch throw is horrible...its like a leg press its so long. I added the clutch stop and that helped but you still have to pick you leg up too high and its not in line with the brake. Horrible design in a car at this price. Shifts are smoother now. Once my SSK gets here and I remove the CDV I will be where I want to be with the transmission.
	Appreciate 2 Gizmo 335i376.50 n8dgr84182.00 Quote

12-19-2020, 11:55 AM	#291
chief1richard Life is on the Track, the rest is just waiting. 383 Rep 731 Posts Drives: At the point of 7,000 RPM's Join Date: May 2017 Location: Boston iTrader: (0) Garage List 2018 M2 [0.00]	Don't understand all the talk of long clutch throw with this car. I never throw my clutch all the way in when shifting. I know exactly how far to throw it just from rote. In three years of ownership have never heard any gears grinding. __________________ At a Point above 7,000 RPM.
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12-19-2020, 01:01 PM	#292
doughboy Major General 1546 Rep 8,972 Posts Drives: 2018 M2 Comp 6MT Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: UK iTrader: (2)	Yep the only time i use all the throw is when stationary. Same with all manuals for me
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12-20-2020, 07:55 AM	#293
BMW1973 New Member 6 Rep 13 Posts Drives: M2 Comp Join Date: Sep 2015 Location: Europe iTrader: (0)	First, I would like to thank members' opinions here. I installed my UCP a few days ago and I used the stopper which was provided with the product. I chose the setup which was recommended here: stock location without removing any springs, immediately I noticed it’s a good solid item, but I didn’t like the fact that: 1. After pressing the clutch, it did not return back fast enough as the OEM. 2. The travel was almost the same as my original pedal with a custom 10mm stopper that I made, the UCP felt that the actual engagement was to far at my M2C, So I ended up adding 7mm plastic washer to the original stopper, I made sure that I still have enough travel much before the engagement point, so It will not cause gear issues at the future. That thing made huge improvement, now the clutch travel is short and it doesn’t bother me that it’s not returning back fast, second I ordered a CVD and may be the slower clutch return will actually work to my advantage. Now I can say it’s a wonderful mod ! As for the SSK, it's on the way with 70A..
	Appreciate 0 Quote

12-24-2020, 04:01 PM	#294
cpxchewy Monkey 119 Rep 241 Posts Drives: 2020 M2C Join Date: Aug 2014 Location: California iTrader: (1)	Just installed mine. The shifting is so precise now and there's no slop. I actually didn't take off the prop shaft and was able to wiggle the shifter on and off. YMMV but seems to work fine for me.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

12-25-2020, 09:21 PM	#295
bimmer98 Second Lieutenant 75 Rep 244 Posts Drives: 2018 M2 Alpine White Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Lake Erie iTrader: (3) Garage List 2017 X3 [0.00] 2013 335i [0.00] 1987 325is [0.00]	Got my SSK installed and also did the UCP. Amazing transformation! The clutch pedal is sooo much better. The way it should be. I'm using the stock setting. It's hard to imagine the sport or race setting because this engages the gears so smooth. Shifts in the SSK are really tight and almost zero slop. I don't mind the slight notch. Occasionally engaging 1st and 4th need a little more effort, but there's give and take with any shift mechanisms. The improvements are immediately felt. Almost wish i could have enjoyed the shifter without the new pedal first because the pedal really is the best mod I've ever installed in a BMW. It's that much better. No regerts!
	Appreciate 0 Quote

12-31-2020, 01:59 PM	#296
saint3448 Private First Class 83 Rep 119 Posts Drives: 2019 Sunset Orange M2C Join Date: Mar 2011 Location: New Orleans iTrader: (0)	Got my AutoSolutions shifter installed, picked it up today. AMAZING transformation. Love it. Definitely do this if you're thinking about it.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

02-13-2021, 05:44 PM	#297
AKD Private 76 Rep 71 Posts Drives: 2019 LBB M2C 6MT Join Date: Apr 2017 Location: Bay Area iTrader: (4)	So I find myself in a weird (and quite possibly dumbest) dilemma. My new to me M2C has a UUC SSK installed, which I was all for since the stock shifter feels like a rubbery mess. The UUC feels WAY better than stock, but has a couple of major issues: Firstly, the dingus who installed it must've not paid much attention to the very clear instructions and the ssk is in BACKWARDS. This leaves the shifter sitting high and to the right when in neutral and it drives me crazy just looking at it, not to mention any harm it may be doing to the transmission. The shift knob is also canted and not pointing straight, which may or may not be a side effect of the idiotic install. Secondly, its LOUD AF in all aspects. The NVH is pretty unbearable as it makes a whirring noise at higher RPMs and clanking noise when shifting into a gate. I've read some responses that the AS kit also has issues with the OE shifter, but I didn't know if people found the whirring/clanking so intrusive that they absolutely needed to go with another shift knob. Since my shop will need to get in there and go through 90% of the original install process to rotate the UUC ssk, I figured it may be worthwhile to swap it out entirely to AS kit. I spoke to Ronald who mentioned that he hasn't heard of any noise complaints for those who have selected 80a bushings and OE shifter, which gives me some confidence that a complete overhaul will be worth it. I'd also be going with a 25% reduction and stock height since the effort of the UUC was just fine (he estimated that UUC's reduction is about 25% as well). Anything I should be on the lookout for in terms of noise with the AS kit? Or has anyone had any time toying with the UUC ssk and can compare to the AS kit? __________________
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02-13-2021, 08:49 PM	#298
flybigjet Remove Before Flight 6908 Rep 1,616 Posts Drives: M2C & Boeing's light twin Join Date: Dec 2019 Location: Littleton (Denver), CO iTrader: (1)	I really like my AS SSK. 74a bushings and a 20% reduction. No noise that I can hear, but I've admittedly got a lot of high-frequency hearing loss due to over 30 years around jets. R. __________________ Current: M2C, Miata RF-GT, RDX & Element // R1200GS & VRSCF Previous: M3, Focus ZX3-S2, Superchaged Solara, Samurai, Integra, Pinto & RX-4 // VRSCR, R6S, FZ1 & FZ600
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02-14-2021, 03:59 AM	#299
doughboy Major General 1546 Rep 8,972 Posts Drives: 2018 M2 Comp 6MT Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: UK iTrader: (2)	I have AS kit with the hardest bushings (only option at time of purchase) and had bad noise until I fitted a heavy raceseng knob. Around this time Ronald introduced softer bushing options, maybe why he did this.
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02-14-2021, 02:08 PM	#301
cpxchewy Monkey 119 Rep 241 Posts Drives: 2020 M2C Join Date: Aug 2014 Location: California iTrader: (1)	I had a noise with the OEM shift knob until I put some athletic tape in the lock slot. I think the clearance of the shift knob and the clearance of the shift knob lock is slightly off so it vibrates at high rpms. Otherwise it's been the best purchase for my M2
	Appreciate 1 AKD75.50 Quote

02-18-2021, 02:47 AM	#304
AKD Private 76 Rep 71 Posts Drives: 2019 LBB M2C 6MT Join Date: Apr 2017 Location: Bay Area iTrader: (4)	Screw it, might as well go for the best if it's out there. Put in an order for a 25% reduction with his prototype bushings (95a response but 80a NVH). Should get the kit in March. __________________
	Appreciate 1 gphung193.50 Quote

02-20-2021, 06:14 PM	#305
n8dgr84 572whp Stock Turbos/DP E60 Tune by Tier1Tuning 182 Rep 302 Posts Drives: M2C - 6MT - Flex Fuel Join Date: Apr 2017 Location: BC iTrader: (1)	Just installed the UCP! I am using it with the small spring only and no overcenter spring. Clutch engagement is nice and easy ; low and less tiring.
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02-22-2021, 09:47 AM	#306
romeo_f Enlisted Member 11 Rep 40 Posts Drives: 2009 E90 M3 Join Date: Feb 2015 Location: Mexico iTrader: (1)	I just installed mine on my 20 m2c and I can confirm that you can get around this without removing the prop shaft, you will have to lower the transmission like and inch and the once you unclip the selector rod from the shift lever it'll wiggle right out, to put the new one you will have to wiggle the shift arm alone and bolt it on, and from inside the car you will have to install the shift lever (tightening those 6 allen bolts WILL be a pita).
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03-22-2021, 01:41 PM	#307
BMW1973 New Member 6 Rep 13 Posts Drives: M2 Comp Join Date: Sep 2015 Location: Europe iTrader: (0)	SSK experience I installed the SSK 22.5% + 70a bushings, few days ago.It shifted my driving experience to a different level: 1 The gear change is so fast now that there is no annoying leg/hesitation time between first to second gear. 2 The tight tolerance reminds me of the H Ferrari old gears, it is so much fun and such an engaging experience. 3 Ronald is an amazing person- customizing the shipter to my driving needs and excellent communication until the product was installed.
	Appreciate 1 Kattanah139.00 Quote

05-04-2021, 11:49 PM	#308
AKD Private 76 Rep 71 Posts Drives: 2019 LBB M2C 6MT Join Date: Apr 2017 Location: Bay Area iTrader: (4)	Finally had my 25% 85a installed this morning and...just wow. It's so precise and has absolutely zero slop. The gates are so well defined and the throws feel so much more mechanical. Hands down the most satisfying mod I've ever done. Ronald is the man. Here's a comparison to the craptastic UUC shifter. Not only was it misaligned and sloppy, but it made a terrible noise whirring noise since the shift nob wouldn't sit completely flush. Didn't matter how hare you pushed it down. None of these issue plague the AS kit. UUC SSK: https://1drv.ms/v/s!ArSMX3P4c2vlhPNm...JP97g?e=Yja2hF AS SSK: https://1drv.ms/v/s!ArSMX3P4c2vlhPVhnv9fDeLGNAdmRQ __________________
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