GT86/FR-S/BRZ Forged carbon fiber shifter

A mold for a “mishimoto style” shift knob made for gt86/frs/brz.

I took inspiration from @kyushaspeed, but i made it from scratch in a different size and to specifically fit the reverse lockout in my gt86.

It's made with m12x1.25 threads but you can use a different insert to fit other cars, just change the model in solidworks.

I've included the model for the shifter so you can test-fit to see if you like it before casting it.

I don't recommend using metal threaded inserts as that may galvanically corrode or ruin the threads on your shift-lever.

Guide:

Prep:

1. Print everything
2. Coat the mold and thread guide in release agent/wax (i used rw4 from easy composites' forged carbon kit)
3. Apply filleting wax on the threads and thread on the insert, make sure there are no gaps for resin to flow into the insert
4. Assemble the mold and use a screw clamp to hold the two halves together

Making the part:

1. Get ready 59g of carbon tow
2. Mix up 74g resin (with in2 from ec, mix 57g of resin with 17.1g hardener)
3. Coat the inside of the mold with resin and start filling it with carbon
4. Make sure to wet all fibers and fill the mold completely with all the carbon (its expected to overflow the mold)
5. Now use another screw clamp and slowly force close the top part of the mold letting resin flow out. (i recommend turning the handle a small amount every couple of minutes to not hydro lock it)

If you've used ec carbon kit it should harden in 8-12 hours

Post processing:

1. Open the mold
2. Sanding all of the surface using low grit and ending with higher grit (400+)
3. (Optional) Apply a thick coat of epoxy resin and sanding with 400++ grit
4. Apply clear-coat for a glossy carbon look