BMW E30 gear lever play and gearbox oil
Why is the E30 gear lever loose?
The play is usually caused by worn bushings and joints in the shift linkage. The gear lever's own bushing is usually the most worn. Also replace the mounting sleeves and nylon bushes at the same time, and the lever feels tight again.
Where are the gear lever bushings replaced?
The replacement can be done by lowering the exhaust and the front of the driveshaft and opening the gearbox rear cover. The part numbers of the wearing parts can be found in the parts catalogue.
What oil does the E30 gearbox take?
An automatic gearbox takes ATF oil and a manual takes its own gearbox oil. The ZF 4HP22 automatic takes about 3 litres. If the gearbox sometimes sticks, change the gearbox oils first.
Why does the gearbox rattle at idle?
A lightened flywheel or a clutch disc not made by BMW can cause vibration that rattles in the gearbox. The noise disappears when the idle is raised to about 950-1000 rpm.