odd noise when i rattle the gear shift

[mole]

ok so i have a 95 325i 5spd.

It has become a habit to just rock the gear shift back and forth when I am in netural(to pass time when sitting at lights).

But now when i do this.. I get some kind of odd clunking noise... hard to describe it. I took off the leather boot shift and the insulation below that but can't find anything that it is hitting against. Anyone have this problem and know what it is?

[bbaz]

I'm going to guess that the bushings are worn out to the point that it's hitting metal to metal. or the cup is worn out as well. However, you would also notice A LOT of play in the shifter from side to side. Put it in third and test the slop from side to side. If it moves more than about an inch total, you might want to think about replacing all the bushings, the cup and the shift rod selector joint. The parts are cheap, and if you drop the tranny brace it's a lot easier to get to everything.

[hellrot325]

or just use it as a reason to upgrade to a SSK

[mole]

:o i like that idea..
I can get a z3 or m3 shifter for my 325i right?

There isn't too much movement from left to right while in gear.
And the sound is most noticebly when the car is cold, can't really notice it if it's warmed up.

[hellrot325]

:o i like that idea..
I can get a z3 or m3 shifter for my 325i right?

There isn't too much movement from left to right while in gear.
And the sound is most noticebly when the car is cold, can't really notice it if it's warmed up.

Forget those, do it right. Rogue Engineering, UUC, AA, all make great choices. A number of posts here to help you out.

[mole]

eek, $300 is a bit pricey.. especially when i was thinking of getting my audio setup re-done(or just done rather).

[hellrot325]

You have to feed the beast, babee! Don't fight it.