93 325 Auto Trans Problem

[iXer_16323]

[SIZE=7]93 325 w/ automatic transmission frequently doesnt shift down into first gear, or any gear after a fairly quick stop. Happens more frequently when cold outside. ie under 40 F. after a few seconds it goes in fairly hard. Doesnt appear to slip when in gear and shifts well and solidly in other gears. A professional mechanic mentioned possibly a "governor" or some sort hanging up. Anyone know a fix for this, aside from swapping for a 5 speed? Although if you have all 5 spd parts let me know where, and how much. Glenn

[93 325i]

I would start with a tranny flush and new fluid..

[4evrwyntr]

Yes, start with a flush and also check for radiator leaks. E36's supposedly (I am told) have a high incidence of radiator leaks - minor, usually. But a trans leak is a trans leak. Look for pinkish fluid underneath your car after it sits while you work or in your garage; if there is so much as a drop, get that radiator replaced/fixed or whatever.
My 318i did this for a little bit, and it was due to a trans leak. In automatic cars (or so I am told) there are two clutches, one for the lower gears and one for the higher gears; this is why between 2-3-4 there shuoldn't be as many problems than in N-1-2; as that's where most of the shifting is (from stops and what not). That poor shifting CAN be one of your clutches burning. A 318i auto tranny will cost you about $3000. Not worth the car. So either hope it is funky fluid, or if I were you and you drove stick, I'd see if there's a kit to convert it to manual. Manual is so much more fun anyway...