Flashing trans warning light.

[Flash635]

The car is a 1986 Euro 635, when I turn the ignition on the trans warning light flashes and makes a ticking noise like an indicator only faster.

When I start the engine the trans goes into limp home mode.

It's not the bayonet plug.

[av8r4aa]

Check the fluid level, check the fluid color, start with the cheap stuff.

[CW6er]

Do you have the ETM yet?

ETM (Electrical Troubleshooting Manual, aka "wiring diagram"). It is a very good manual, and everyone needs to have this. You really can't work on the car without it. Here is a Site with free downloads of ETM's (PDF files -13 to 20 MB) for various years ('82 to '01) and models of BMW's (3/5/6/7/8/Z):
http://wedophones.com/BMWManualsLead.htm

Here is an excerpt from the ETM. it seems that the second symptom indicates that maybe test "C" and "D" might be in order:



Here is the Transmission Manual:

Downloadable ZF 4HP-22/24 Automatic Transmission Overhaul Manual It has a fault chart, shows a complete overhaul and has the procedure for the "fix" for the "A" clutch pack:
http://bmwzone.ro/forums/post-a14824-.html

[Flash635]

I forgot I had that, thanks.
And look at that, the symptoms are just as I described.

The neutral safety switch isn't working now, it can start in any gear.