Short Shifter = Synchro Damage?

[4.too]

I have 72k miles on my B8 S5 and I'm looking for the best solution to enhance the shifter feel. I trust my local shop, they have always been honest and fair with me, but they are desperately trying to talk me out of a short shifter. Disappointing. They claim that no matter how great I am at properly changing gears I will eventually wear out the synchros prematurely, and all for not as it is unlikely to shorten lap times. They suggested I install a new OEM shifter instead. They said it's not necessary and the difference will be minor, but a new OEM will probably feel tighter than the current shifter with 72k.

They did agree to install the JHM solid linkage (arrives Friday.) They said it is less risky and I may be satisfied with the linkage alone.

Anyone have thoughts on this? Experience? Synchro damage?

Thanks in advance for your help!

[JamesRS5]

I have 72k miles on my B8 S5 and I'm looking for the best solution to enhance the shifter feel. I trust my local shop, they have always been honest and fair with me, but they are desperately trying to talk me out of a short shifter. Disappointing. They claim that no matter how great I am at properly changing gears I will eventually wear out the synchros prematurely, and all for not as it is unlikely to shorten lap times. They suggested I install a new OEM shifter instead. They said it's not necessary and the difference will be minor, but a new OEM will probably feel tighter than the current shifter with 72k.

They did agree to install the JHM solid linkage (arrives Friday.) They said it is less risky and I may be satisfied with the linkage alone.

Anyone have thoughts on this? Experience? Synchro damage?

Thanks in advance for your help!

A short shifter as in you want to reduce the throw of the gear shifter? If so, it is not possible cause damage to syncro's by fitting one of these, all you are doing is adjusting the pivot point, weight and length of throw at the gear shifter itself, the movement at the gearbox selector forks remains exactly the same as the factory setup, the gears would not engage if you adjust anything at the gearbox end.

Now if you go rowing though gears like a one armed man in a canoe race, then yes, you will probably prematurely wear the synco's.