My shifter doesn't sit right in neutral...Any Ideas?????????

[TIMSGT]

Sometimes when I shift out of 5th gear and into neutral the shifter won't return to the possition it's supposed to be in. Instead of being right above 4 and below 3 it will sit just to the right of 4 below and in between 3 and 5.

What would cause this? Is it an easy fix?
Answer:

You have the ZF shifter like me and the M cars. This is not a bushing problem, but the stupid pin and springs inside the trans case that bind up. I guess this is a known problem that BMW used to fix by replacing the transmission- but since then they have introduced a parts update kit for a few bucks- BUT- as far as I know you have to drop the trans to get it done.
Thanks

OK new question; If i get the budget ssk from understeer with new selector rod and ERK will it eliminate the problem or would i have to get the the kit for the pin and spring? Also, is there such thing as upgraded springs? i feel the mine are worn alittle it and I would like my shifter to immediately return to center once in neutral as opposed to slowly doing so.

[jijacob]

Bad bushings?

[jmo69]

Bushings, no doubt. I just had mine changed and now I don't have a mystery shifter anymore.

[Hathaway]

I think its the spring on the shift gate. This thread should answer your problems.

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=48002&highlight=5TH+GEAR+ISSUE

[mreloc]

You have the ZF shifter like me and the M cars. This is not a bushing problem, but the stupid pin and springs inside the trans case that bind up. I guess this is a known problem that BMW used to fix by replacing the transmission- but since then they have introduced a parts update kit for a few bucks- BUT- as far as I know you have to drop the trans to get it done.

[ol27]

Yeah mine is a little sticky too, i did remove the shifter boot and lube all the moving parts which helped alot but its still not perfect. pretty sure its that spring mechanism for 5th thats at fault.

[1996 328ti]

+1 Return springs.
Cheap part, lots of labor.

[TIMSGT]

dang I hafta drop the trans... sucks:mad

thanks for the help maybe I'll fix it when I replace my clutch and fly...

[TIMSGT]

I asked this question a long time ago, I'm finally about to do something about it(cliche` E36 owner haha). First post as been edited with new question instead of starting a new thread.

[TIMSGT]

any help?

[mj9723]

Hi Guys,
I need help with my 318ic (automatic trans) gear knob. When I put it in D (drive) it doesn't want to sit right and car doesn't shift normal, however, if I throw it in the 3rd gear it works just fine and the shifting works fine. Also, if I hold the gear knob and keep a little pressure as though you are about to shift it works fine...
I have searched many hours for this issue and have come up empty... your advise would be grately appreciated!
-MSJ

[NotUrAvgM]

I think its the spring on the shift gate. This thread should answer your problems.

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=48002&highlight=5TH+GEAR+ISSUE


Wasn't it decided at some point that this thread is the longest running (if not very close) thread on bf.c?

[kgvickers]

I had this problem on my 328 and I fixed it myself. You can read all about it where I posted over on the e39 forum:

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=788704

It's an easy fix - once you pull the transmission.

Keith

[mj9723]

Many thanks for the input Keith... but the issue is that I have an automatic transmission...
please advise...

[kgvickers]

Many thanks for the input Keith... but the issue is that I have an automatic transmission...
please advise...

I was once a newbie so I'll cut you a little slack. I was addressing the topic of the original post (commonly called the "OP"). You need to start your own thread, but I'll make a suggestion for you anyway.

Find and download a copy of the Bentley e36 Service Manual (do a search, they are all over the net). Go to page 250-3. My guess is that you need to adjust your gearshift linkage.

Keith

[mj9723]

Thanks for understanding Keith... Much appreciate all your help.
What part do I need to get my gear slipage fixed? on Pelican's web site I see Shift Lever Assembly for Automatic Transmission,shifters, etc... I don't know what to order?
I went autozone and bought Haynes manual for my 318ic and it doesn't help and doesn't address the gear issue. Do you know if there is a website that I might be able to download info that you referred?
cheers
-MIR