That one was very helpful, but I really enjoyed your video on the basic AW 3-speed. That really helped me understand the core principles of the hub and appreciate the cleverness of the design. Thanks again!

Oh, other question that you might be able to answer. Was there ever a thumb shifter made for the X-RD5 besides the terrible plastic model? Mine disintegrated within the first year, and I replaced it with the metal thumb shifter that was meant for the X-RD5(W), not realizing it isn't 100% compatible with the older hub. So I've never been able to access 5th gear (no big loss to be honest) but I've always been a bit concerned that my hub is never 100% "in gear" now. Is there some other shifter I can acquire that would be better for it? I've never found anything through online searches besides the aforementioned plastic one.