Is there a way to make the shift lock solenoid switch quieter???

[tfvesquire]

Back again for more fun shhh--tuff !! On my 98 Q, I finally solved the intermittent clicking in the shifter when I applied the brake to release the shift lock. I cleaned the switch with electronics cleaner (literally saturated the switch and connectors) and now it seems to be working smoothly.

My complaint now is that when I press the brake to engage the shift lock switch, I heard a loud metal click in the shift release lever. I heard from the dealer that there is a $4 rubber bumper or bushing that is part of the shift lock system, but I can't seem to locate it in the FSM.

Does anyone know where this bumper/bushing is located? Can I simply make one or slip something in there to make things a little more peaceful? That is the only annoying sound in my exceptionally quiet cabin and I would like to fix it.

I was thinking I woul dhave to remove the shifter wood trim and while someone presses the brake, have a look and see where the release lever is hitting. I could apply some thick grease on the lever where is activates the release arm, but I think over time the sound would come back. If someone know swhat I'm talking about, please chime in and give any suggestions.

Thanks!! Photos coming soon, I promise. It is supposed to snow 2-4 inches here again tonight!! arrrgghh!! Can't even get it out of the garage during the day long enough for a photo shoot.

[Q45tech]

I've always thought it should be louder in fact a buzzer everytime the brakes are applied to reduce brake wear and the number of brake riders in the world.

You could build a counter to measure applications per mile driven and duration in seconds....................a great set of data.

[qsiguy]

Shouldn't be very difficult to pull the trim off and look at it. Sitting in the drivers seat you should be able to look and push the brake at the same time by yourself. Doubt it's a big deal to slip a "bumper" of some kind in there.

[Raxephon]

The "click" you hear is from the solenoid and/or the frictional parts associated with it.

Silencing Shifter "Clicker"

1. Remove shifter trim

2. Locate solenoid

3. Lubricate friction surfaces with lithium lube

4. Wrap solenoid in dynamat leaving the shaft sticking out of the end uncovered and free to move. Do not cover screw holes

5. Add dynamat to the inside/sides of the shifter trim

6. Re-install trim

7. Press brake pedal a few times to see if its adequate or if more inulation is needed.

8. Add more insulation or not 9.Enjoy your Q45

Sorry, no pics. I'm just too damn busy at the moment.

[tfvesquire]

Thank you for your responses, especially the last one with suggestions.

I was hoping someone could point out the rubber bumper/bushing I described above on a diagram so I could decide whether to buy it or make my own. I don't think the solenoid switch itself is making the noise, but it is making a metal "click" where the switch lever meets the shifter release. Dynamatting the switch itself won't do much good in my case.

I looked in there the last time when I was cleaning up the switch and when I pressed the brake, I could see the switch arm moving slightly when it was powered up. I just cannot tell where I could place a makeshift bumper to make it less noisy.

If anyone has a diagram or could snap a close up photo of theirs witht eh factory bumper in place, that would be great.

[Infinitiguy19]

I am curious as to whether there is a bushing for the Q45 shift lock solenoid or not. All models (1990-1996 (G50) 1997-2001 (FGY33) 2002-2006 (F50)) have a similar system.

I took mine apart and it was brutal don't let those 3 screws fool you!

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Euu3-R-iV0k[/youtube]


I used grease as you can see and 3 days of not driving the car its has gotten a little louder than when greased. Either the car is pissed for sitting for 3 days or the grease melted in the 90*F heat, I think the former is more likely.

So is there a bushing that goes somewhere near the solenoid so you don't have that metal on plastic noise?

[OwnerCS]

Paul - Thank you for taking the time to put together the video. I sure like it!