how to fix "in gear" shifter slop?

[redlinedbimmer]

When my car is in gear, the shift knob still can wiggle side to side a decent amount. Is this normal? How do you cut down on this and make the shifts more precise?

[exodus454]

from what I comprehend, it's a flaw in BMW's original design. Read up on DSSR's, apparently they're the key to getting rid of shifter play. Bushings also come into play to some degree, if yours are worn that'll screw things up too.

Also, if you're getting innacurate shifts during hard cornering that means your transmission mounts may be on their way out.

[Bluebimma]

Its definately the bushings. I have the same problem, and the most common way to fix it is to either replace the bushing down there, or just upgrade to a short shift kit, which should come with the new bushing as well.

[carjoe]

I have the same thing, jusrt scored a bushing kit and Z3 shifter. This should fix all my problems. I have a hard time finding 5th gear! I don't know how the previous owner did it, it's driving me crazy.

Bushings can be found anywhere but Pelican has a whole kit. UUC sells the DSSR with a new short shifter which includes all the bushings too.

[redlinedbimmer]

what is a DSSR?

[LuvMy328is]

what is a DSSR?

http://www.uucmotorwerks.com/dssr/XTS1.jpg

Here you go UUC DSSR. (http://www.uucmotorwerks.com/dssr/) It will improve the slop for sure. I have one and would recommend it. :thumbup:
~Phil

[hellrot325]

Replacing the bushings will help, but it will also be temporary. Just installed the DSSR w/ my EVO3...this is what the stock selector rod should be. When UUC says that the only play will be in the tranny itself, I believe them. The tolerances are uber tight...DSSR FTW