We’ve received numerous calls asking about the Shiftec Paddle Shift Kit systems, regarding what is the correct parts to upgrade a race
car’s sequential gear box to a paddle shift kit. In short, there’s no “standard” setup, as there are so many different types of cars on track. However, there is one clear solution for a manufacturer.

Enter, Shiftec.

Based in Leamington Spa, England - Shiftec is renowned for developing and designing a wide range of engineering solutions, most specifically, pneumatic shift kit systems. They have motorsport paddle shift kit systems for a wide range of series including SCCA, NASA, SRO, IMSA, F1, F2 and other club racing/motorsport series.

For club/amateur level style cars such as formula, prototype, historic and club race cars, there are a few “plug and play” options such as the:

Club Sport Shift Kit (hardware only)
Club Sport Shift Kit with GCU500
Club Sport Shift Kit with GCU501
Pro Sport Shift Kit

Please note that depending on the application, additional components may be required. Contact us at sales@gomuchfaster.comfor questions.

If you’re looking for more of a custom application, or certain replacement parts, see below.

Air Supply
A Shiftec Compact Air Compressor or the Shiftec Air Power Source are your two options. If you choose to use the compact air compressor for the paddle shift kit, you will also need to choose a accumulator (see below). The Air Power Source features an integrated accumulator and pressure switch, all in a one compact, rugged package.

Air Accumulation
The two options from Shiftec are the Accumulator with Integrated Pressure Sensor, or the Standard Accumulator (which does not have a pressure sensor, therefore the compressor will need to be managed some other way).

Gear Shifting
The most common of choices for shifting a paddle shift kit system, is the Gear Shift Servo from Shiftec. It integrates a pressure in line and does not require an additional 2 or 3 way valve block. The other option is the Actuator 34, which does require either a 2 or 3-Way Pneumatic Valve Block (depending on if the throttle system is drive by wire, or drive by cable see below).

Throttle Control
If the race car has a drive by wire throttling system, then you’re going to require the Shiftec Side Mount Throttle Blipper. If the race car has a drive by cable throttle control, you will then need the Cable Pull Blipper.

A Shiftec Gear Position Switchis a crucial component required across all applications.

Transmission Control
There are different options for transmission control and logging. Shiftec offers four choices, depending on application:
GCU500
GCU501
GCU700 with integrated valve block, or the
GCU800

GCU selection will be determined by the vehicle application, and motorsport level. Additionally, these may not be required if the vehicle has the appropriate ECU/logging capabilities.

Last, but not least, is the harness to control the whole system which will have to be discussed, designed, approved and built. The harness will be designed in accordance with what parts are used in the system, along with measurements supplied by the end user. For questions, please call or email us.