Paddle shift switches for S100

[mefmotorsport]

This is an interesting thread. I have just spent the last few months trying to come up with a suitable paddle shift switch for use with my S100 whilst I put the pneumatics in my car. I started out with a ford focus volume control, it has good tactile feel but small switchres, then spent ages searching for a suitable one axis joystick, I bought one from RS components and added a paddle to the lever, it turned out too floppy. I finally built my own using honeywell microswitches and two opposing coil springs, limiting their movement to ensure the lever would centre. Looks and feels fine, just waiting for the last pneumatic connector now before trying the system. Next step do design one that I can get machined.

That sounds exactly the same as the one I made that Paul now owns!

[philnagel]

What is the typical distance between the front of the steering wheel rim and the paddle, having installed mine the paddle is at the tip of my fingers to reach it, I originally didn't want it too close in case I actually knocked it!

[mefmotorsport]

I just looked in my rally car and its approximately 2" from the back surface of the steering wheel to the front of the paddle. This seems to be perfect for me. I mounted the neutral/reverse lock-out button in the middle of the paddle inwards towards the switch body. I'll see if I can find a pic somewhere.

Martin

[philnagel]

Thanks Martin, I will have a measure up tonight, it was a challenge trying to get the paddle switch box close to the steering wheel.

Regards

Phil

[mefmotorsport]

I made a 10mm thick alloy mounting that clamps around the column like a split bearing then another piece of alloy plate that bolts to that at 90 degrees going towards the steering wheel. The switch block is then bolted to that plate. I'll try and get some pics up.

[philnagel]

I have my switch mounted, I am using a Corsa power steering column (on a Mk2 escort), I have an adapter bracket between the belt rail and the steering column, I welded a plate to the side of that then taped the switch box to the steering wheel then made a bracket between the two. I went for putting the paddle switch on the left hand side at the 10 o'clock position. just have to see how I get used to it.

[Paul Corbin]

I have my switch mounted, I am using a Corsa power steering column (on a Mk2 escort), I have an adapter bracket between the belt rail and the steering column, I welded a plate to the side of that then taped the switch box to the steering wheel then made a bracket between the two. I went for putting the paddle switch on the left hand side at the 10 o'clock position. just have to see how I get used to it.

Hi Phil, be good to see some pictures of your set up too. Mine will be for a mk2 escort as well.

[katana]

I get the point of paddle shifters on high geared steering racks ie. 1 odd turn lock to lock, but doesn't it get a bit complicated with multiple turn wheels?

[philnagel]

I will have to see how it goes, my original intention of the paddle shift was to speed up the change down at the end of a straight where you can be in 6th then need to exit a corner or chicane in 1st. The number of change downs was taking my mind off positioning myself on the stage correctly. My next intention was to add a box to automate change up and change down process.

[Rob Stevens]

Change up can be automated anyway, but I have my paddle on the wheel and you can still sort of steer whilst pulling the paddle, not so easy if the paddle mounted on the column.