Thrustmaster TH8S Shifter Add-On User Manual

Introduction

The Thrustmaster TH8S Shifter Add-On is a versatile sim racing shifter designed to enhance your racing immersion. It features an "H"-pattern shift plate with 7 forward gears plus a reverse gear, allowing it to adapt to various game types and vehicles with manual shifting, including rally, trucks, GT, and NASCAR. The 1.6-inch (4 cm) metal shift lever and ergonomic "sport-style" shift knob ensure responsive and precise gear changes. Built with frictionless H.E.A.R.T technology, derived from Thrustmaster's high-end shifters, the TH8S maintains extreme precision throughout its lifespan. It is compatible with all Thrustmaster Force Feedback racing wheels on PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S.

What's in the Box

• Thrustmaster TH8S Shifter Add-On Unit
• Clamping System
• USB Cable
• DIN Cable
• User Manual (this document)

Figure 1: Contents of the TH8S Shifter Add-On package.

Setup

1. Mounting the Shifter

The TH8S Shifter features a robust clamping system for secure attachment to various surfaces. This system allows for effortless attachment to virtually any table or surface, ensuring stability during intense gameplay sessions.

1. Place the shifter on the edge of your table or racing cockpit.
2. Align the clamping mechanism with the underside of the surface.
3. Tighten the screw on the clamp until the shifter is firmly secured and does not move during use. Ensure it is tight enough to prevent movement but do not overtighten to avoid damage.

Figure 2: The TH8S Shifter securely clamped to a surface.

2. Connecting the Shifter

The TH8S Shifter offers broad compatibility with Thrustmaster Force Feedback racing wheels and PC systems.

• For PC Connection: Connect the provided USB cable from the shifter to an available USB port on your computer.
• For Console Connection (PS5, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S) with Thrustmaster Force Feedback Racing Wheel: Connect the provided DIN cable from the shifter to the dedicated shifter port on your Thrustmaster Force Feedback racing wheel base. The shifter will then communicate with the console through the racing wheel.

It is recommended to download the latest drivers and firmware updates from the official Thrustmaster website to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.

Figure 3: TH8S Shifter integrated into a racing setup with a Thrustmaster wheel.

Operating the Shifter

The TH8S Shifter is designed for intuitive and realistic manual gear shifting in sim racing games.

H-Pattern Shifting

• The shifter features a traditional "H"-pattern layout with 7 forward gears and 1 reverse gear.
• To engage a gear, firmly move the shift lever into the desired gate. The precise feel of the mechanism provides tactile feedback for accurate shifts.
• The ergonomic "sport-style" shift knob ensures a comfortable and secure grip, even during rapid and intense shifting sequences.

Figure 4: Detailed view of the 7+1 H-pattern gate.

Figure 5: Ergonomic grip on the TH8S Shifter knob.

Game Compatibility

The TH8S Shifter is designed to be compatible with a wide range of racing simulation games. For PC games, you may need to configure the shifter within the game's control settings or through a configuration wizard to bind the gears correctly. For console games, ensure your Thrustmaster Force Feedback racing wheel is properly recognized, and the shifter should function automatically or require minimal in-game setup.

Figure 6: The TH8S Shifter is suitable for various vehicle types and racing styles.

Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Thrustmaster TH8S Shifter, follow these simple maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the shifter and its components regularly. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents, as these can damage the finish.
• Storage: When not in use, store the shifter in a clean, dry environment away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Cable Care: Avoid sharp bends or kinks in the cables. Do not pull on the cables to disconnect them; always grasp the connector.
• Mechanism: The H.E.A.R.T technology is designed for long-term precision without requiring lubrication. Do not attempt to disassemble the internal mechanism.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your TH8S Shifter, try the following troubleshooting steps:

• Shifter Not Recognized:
  • Ensure all cables are securely connected to the shifter and your PC/racing wheel.
  • Try connecting to a different USB port on your PC.
  • Restart your computer or console.
  • Verify that the latest drivers and firmware for your Thrustmaster racing wheel (if applicable) and the TH8S Shifter are installed from the official Thrustmaster website.
• Incorrect Gear Recognition / Misshifts:
  • Ensure the shifter is firmly clamped to your surface to prevent movement during shifting.
  • Check in-game control settings to ensure the shifter is properly calibrated and assigned. Some games may require manual binding of each gear.
  • Perform a calibration of the shifter through the Thrustmaster control panel on PC, if available.
• No Force Feedback (if expected): The TH8S Shifter itself does not provide force feedback. Force feedback is provided by your compatible Thrustmaster racing wheel. Ensure your racing wheel's force feedback is functioning correctly.

For further assistance, please refer to the official Thrustmaster support resources.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Thrustmaster products are covered by a manufacturer's warranty. For detailed information regarding warranty terms, conditions, and duration, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Thrustmaster support website. For technical support, driver downloads, and frequently asked questions, please visit the Thrustmaster support portal.