Function-First Riser Console Install

Cliff Notes: I've just installed the kit and I'm very happy with the fit, finish and function. Better than OEM quality in most cases! For the visually driven here is the image gallery https://plus.google.com/photos/11751...49397503431937 As a picky p-car owner, I was hesitant to put something aftermarket so prominently visible in my 996. I shouldn't have worried, this product looks completely OEM and the quality is outstanding. Probably the most well made and durable interior parts in the car!

I had a GT3 console delete kit in my car (now for sale) and was really happy with the legroom this gave compared to the factory console. However, I also wanted to relocate the climate control and put my smartphone in the same location. And yes, maybe someday do a double DIN "radio" So when the Function First Console kit appeared on the scene, I was very interested. Never saw one in person, but when the "holiday sale" discount kicked in I sent over the PayPal for the kit with the relocation console for the climate control. A few days later single large box with lots of branding arrived. Opening it up gave me a glimpse of the attention to detail put into the product. It was VERY well packed and protected from shipping damage.

This was about to change...

My hat is off to the folks at Function First. When I unpacked the kit, I found parts that are at least OEM quality and in most cases are _better_ than OEM quality! THIS is the way to provide upgrades for Porsches. For example here is a factory GT3 Console And here is the "New" Console Check out the Hardware. These are not just stock threaded bar spacers, they are machined parts that perfectly fit the plastic riser sections. Riser Sections are all custom molded and very strong. Carpet was excellent match to OEM. Front and rear covers are very nicely executed

Installation was easy following the instructions. Most difficult part was getting the wires for the climate control down into the center console area. It helped to pass the connectors down the "channel" formed by the metal supports on each side of the center console. Every part I installed fit right on the money. No trimming, excessive adjusting or compromises needed. I did choose to remove the driver's seat, and that made access a lot easier.

When I was done, I found I had needed to use the following tools: And, by design, these parts were "left over"

So how does it change the aesthetic, ergonomic and driving experience? From a looks perspective, the kit is mostly invisible. The forward console is very close to the GT3 console delete visually, with carpet covering all surfaces. The legroom is not quite as good as the GT3 Console Delete, but better than the stock console. It does rub against my leg a bit more than I would like, but I think after driving some miles I'll come to grips with that. The driving experience of having the shifter higher is positive! I've already got a 997 shifter in the car, so it is not quite as long as the stocker. So the height gain is welcome. I did have some issues banging my elbow on the console lid, and I think I'll need to adjust the seat height a bit to tune that out. The even height of the door pocket lid and center console has not been fully tested yet, but it did feel a bit more natural. Rennlisters local to New Hope PA are welcome to check it out.

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Damn, that backside shot looks REALLY WELL made and robust. When you just see the front side and considering it's aftermarket from a relatively small and specialized outfit, one sorta expects plywood or something like that back there(no offense). But to see some kind of injection molded plastic not to mention the beefy supports, that definitely is head and shoulders above OEM. I think seeing all these detailed elements close up def brings the cost into perspective for anyone out there on the fence about getting one. Very nice job FF!

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Looking very good, Chris! Nice job - I'm glad everything with the install went smoothly. Much care was taken to ensure optimal and seamless fitment into the existing OEM interior, so I'm glad you're liking the results. In regards to the elbow room, I recommend adjusting the shifter as far forward as possible (appx 2 or 3 clicks forward on the adjustable shift linkage). This frees up elbow room allowing for uninhibited shifter arm path, as well as re-positioning the shifter to a more natural position. With the shift **** raised 2 inches, your arm is arced up higher, and so your shifting hand is situated farther forward compared to the OEM setup. (Some folks may not find this necessary, as the ergonomics are heavily dependent on seating position.) Enjoy the new setup!!!