Failing Relay Shaft Ball

[Brumma]

Has anyone else had trouble with the relay shaft ball constantly failing? I've replaced 2 in the last year, both disintegrating just after the 6 month part warranty from my mechanic. I know they're exposed to dirt, grease and road grime, but mine look like they melt!

Here's a photo of what mine looks like:


Does anyone have a better fix? Something that's heat resistant or doesn't fall apart after 6 months?

I found this: MissingLinkZ - VW Shift Linkage Upgrades which looks promising, but keen to hear other people's experiences and ideas.

[sports racer]

I don't know what you're doing to them but mine is still going strong and I've done 20,000ks since February.

[ryana89]

Do you have a stock exhaust downpipe?

[Brumma]

Nah, I'm not sure of the details as it was on there when I got it, but pretty sure its aftermarket. Definitely heat related, engine is running at normal temps, but could be the exhaust. My answer might be in creating some sort of heat shield for the exhaust, not sure how though.
I've noticed occasionally the base of the shifter itself gets hot, so the heat from the exhaust is definitely getting to the relay shaft and other linkages.

[Brumma]

Just noticed today in the service manual that the exploded view shows a little piece of metal that attaches to the selector lever and is labelled 'Shield.' It looks like its in a position that would protect the relay shaft ball from heat and keep it a bit cleaner. Mine's missing, so I might try and rig something up myself.