ZF Transmission problems

[jamiec32]

Hello, I have an 03 BMW 330ci with the ZF auto trans. Just replaced bad trans with a good used one from a wrecked car. Replaced filter,fluid and cleaned pan etc. All was fine for about 400 miles and now I have a clunking,clacking coming from the bell housing. Seems a lot worst when car is cold but noise stays constant. Car seems to shift perfectly fine,I have driven it another 400 or so miles like this but something is definitely wrong and needs to be addressed. It did go into limp mode once with codes 31,Gear monitoring and 36 Batt + Supply. I think battery is weak that is what caused this issue. The transmission shifts perfectly.....just this damn noise,maybe a bad torque converter I don't know. Was hoping for some input before I go and drop this transmission again. I have a video on my phone I could e-mail or text someone if interested in hearing this god awful sound! It does seem to go away when I put the car in reverse.


Thank you
Jamie

[MarcoZandrini]

Did you replace the torque converter? Who installed the tranny?

[jamiec32]

Did you replace the torque converter? Who installed the tranny?

I replaced the trans at my buddys shop and we used the converter that came with used trans

[jclausen]

Check torque converter bolts

[jamiec32]

Check torque converter bolts

We did that,all good

[TonyAngel]

What do you mean by "the noise stays constant?" Does it stay the same regardless of engine speed or does it change with engine speed?

[jamiec32]

It speeds up with the engine rpm. I am pulling the trans again this weekend,I am betting its the torque converter. I have another trans that I am going to put in if I can't see the issue when apart

[jamiec32]

I was thinking on unbolting the torque converter and try starting the car and see if the noise is there. Would the flex plate hold up to the starter like this? Want to make sure it's on the transmission side not flex plate etc.