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View Full Version : New to e34....Need some information


aworthybrother
03-29-2009, 10:48 AM
Hi,

I am new to the e34 world. I had e30 before and just sold it recently. I might be getting a good deal (http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?p=15909383#) for an 89 535i that needs new automatic transmision. Would appreciate if anybody can help me so I can weigh my options:

- where is the best place to source a transmission for an 89 535i?
- what do i need to know when looking for the correct transmission?
- is the transmission interchangeable between different models of e34? (525, 535, 540)
- how much do they usually go for? parts? and labor?
- what is the difference in the cost if I decide to install a manual instead of an auto?
- any shop you recommend in the NY/NJ/CT area?


thanks and will appreciate any help.
googone20
03-29-2009, 10:53 AM
I can tell you that you will want to do a manual trans swap instead of swapping in a auto. I am sure everyone here will agree. I have never done this but if you look hard the swap can be done for cheap. 535i with a 5 speed is where its at!
garethashenden
03-29-2009, 11:41 AM
I had to replace my auto. The manual installed was about the same as an auto uninstalled.

What is the asking price? If it needs a tranny it should be pretty low
zubbie
03-29-2009, 12:12 PM
$2000 exercise minimum either way with someone else doing the work.

More than that for the autocraptastic at the dealer alone.

Deduct that from the value of an average condition 89 535 auto and the seller should be paying you to take it off his hands.
nmp411
03-29-2009, 12:34 PM
If you check out the FAQ stickyed on the maine e34 page you can get a lot of answers. GL!
Sam Son
03-29-2009, 03:21 PM
buy the best example of a car you can. get a good running 535 5 spd.
if youre lookin for a good shop check out project m-spec in queens. theyre right on the border with brooklyn theyre about as good as they come. do a search for them in the regional section.
aworthybrother
03-29-2009, 06:10 PM
$2000 exercise minimum either way with someone else doing the work.

More than that for the autocraptastic at the dealer alone.

Deduct that from the value of an average condition 89 535 auto and the seller should be paying you to take it off his hands.


is this parts and labor? I just found out from a friend that he was able to source the transmission.... how much should a labor cost?... we havent finalized the price yet but how much should be the reasonable price given the scenario?