|
|
|
Forum Newbie
Group: Forum Members
Last Login: 10/9/2008 9:44:22 PM
Posts: 2,
Visits: 243
|
|
Hi,
It has become increasingly difficult to shift into 2nd gear, oftentimes popping out into neutral. As a test, I tried a second gear start, and the shifter klunked a few times and then it backed out to neutral. At autocross this past Sunday, I was able to get it to finally engaged, so I settled for second gear starts all day. I didn't even mess with second driving home. Any thoughts?
Thanks
|
|
|
|
|
Supreme Being
Group: Forum Members
Last Login: 1/2/2009 1:17:46 PM
Posts: 82,
Visits: 100
|
|
While it is possible that there may be a trans problem, we find that symptoms like these are often the result of shift linkage misalignment attributable to either worn out transmission & or engine mounts or worn out shifter bushings. The rear of the shifter is attached to the car via the trans tunnel while the front of the linkage is attached to the transmission itself. When an engine or trans mount breaks, the orientation of the shift linkage is altered as the now untethered drive train can shift around relocating the position of the shifter assembly. Hence you may not be able to engage 2nd gear all the way. Furthermore, broken mounts will allow the drive train to move around tugging on the shifter & sometimes popping it out of gear. Worn shifter components will also compromise gear engagement. You'll need to rule these components out first.
What year, model & mileage vehicle is it?
Mike Morris
Schneller BMW Performance
26 Middle Rd Unit 1-2
Newbury, MA 01951
978.465.2002
|
|
|
|
|
Forum Newbie
Group: Forum Members
Last Login: 10/9/2008 9:44:22 PM
Posts: 2,
Visits: 243
|
|
Oops, sorry. Its a 1990 325I 4 door with approx 215,000 miles. Recent related work includes new front subframe with new motor mounts as well as a UCC short shifter with their beefy connecting rod. The car was always (in my 1.5 years of ownership) been tough to get into second, but it has gotten steadily more difficult. The one thing you mention that we didn't do was new transmission mount. Maybe try that?
Thanks
|
|
|
|
|
Supreme Being
Group: Forum Members
Last Login: 1/2/2009 1:17:46 PM
Posts: 82,
Visits: 100
|
|
If the mounts are cracked, oil soaked or collapsed it's worth a try replacing them. If the 2nd gear pop out has been happening for awhile, then regardless of whether a faulty engine mount or shifter 1st caused the problem, there may now be an internal gearbox issue. 215K is a lot of miles anyway, the trans may be worn out.
When you did the shifter w/ the beefy rod, did you also replace the selector shaft pivot at the transmission where the selector shaft attaches? Also, how was the bushing bracket at the rear of the shifter support where it attaches to the trans tunnel? Check these out as well.
If all these components look OK, drain some trans fluid into a cup & look for a relatively clear fluid or a sparkling metal flake when swirling it around. Metal flake or chunks isn't a good thing.
Good luck!
Mike Morris
Schneller BMW Performance
26 Middle Rd Unit 1-2
Newbury, MA 01951
978.465.2002
|
|
|
|