First Gear Problem - Please Help.

[ktonic]

Question: 1996 BMW 318i mileage: 58000.

My BMW 318i has started to pop out of first gear occasionally (recently, more often).

What do you think is wrong? If you know, how serious is this and for how much can it be fixed.

Thanks in advance.

[3serbmdubya]

mine does the same thing... usually when its under pressure or im on a hill or something, or when im parking.... have no idea why

heres a bump

[ktonic]

Originally posted by 3serbmdubya@Oct 21 2004, 09:40 PM
mine does the same thing... usually when its under pressure or im on a hill or something, or when im parking.... have no idea why

heres a bump

[snapback]215927[/snapback]

Looks like not a lot of people have this problem. used Here is the latest I found on net.

"Answer: The reason your transmission pops out of first gear is probably because of a worn synchromesh in the transmission. To replace it, requires disassembling the transmission. " ghead

[93 325i]

I would start with changing out the tranny & diff fluids..heard redline is good..can be the synchro's which basically you'd replace both clutch and tranny while your at it since its out anyways. Synchro problems usually include grinding as well tho. Can also be the linkage and something needs to be adjusted. I'd change the fluids and if problem still persits take it to a mech

[3serbmdubya]

yea i heard stuff about he synch meshs' bein bad, but i plan on replacing my tranny anyway in the futre
does anyone think getting a 6-speed is better? i mean you would have less torque and you would have to shift faster but i think it would be nice. any ideas?

http://www.zionsvilleautosport.com/store/s...egory_Code=6SPC

[97alpineM3]

I'd stick to a 5 speed... just cause its what came on the car.. and thats the way it was meant to be for that engine.. no use in having to worry about your rear end too... change the fluid.. then if it doesnt help.. you might start to look for either a new tranny or a good worker to work on it and replace the syncro...

Good luck

Les

[ktonic]

Guys, I talked to my mech and find out that it would be cheaper to replace the whole tran rather then openning tran and replacing synch. So for now I am going to start with second gear and will have to replace it in near future.

Thank you for all of your help.

-R

[jllphan]

Ktonic: If I were you, I'd replace the tranny as opposed to working on the existing unit. Once you open it up and start replacing things, chances are, you will have to continue to do so.

97Alpine and 3serbmdubya: I like the idea of the 6spd conversion. At interstate speeds, I am running about 3600rpm and would love another ratio to improve fuel economy and wear and tear on the engine. That link mentioned above is a very reputable BMW tuner. They did most of the work on my car, and would trust their conversion kits whole heartedly.