Manual Tranny Oil Question

[bkcraun]

What kind of oil do I add to my manual transmission? I have a 1992 325i.
Also has anyone gone to synthetic? If so, what type?

[thekid]

As far as I remember it is pretty hard to do. It would be much better for you to take it to a mechanic. The car has to be at a specified temperature and you have to have a special pump to do it. I know some one has done it themselves. Hopefully they will come accross this post, if you are pretty sure of your abilities and some one can remember the specifics then I wish you luck, but if not, I'd pay the money to have it done.

As far as what type, go to www.bavauto.com and put in the year and modle of your car and then see what they reccomend. Should be correct.

[drz]

Dude, just take it to a mechanic. Dont' mess up your tranny, please.. for the love of BMWs :P Really, it is not an expense that is done as often as engine oil changes. Splurge; pay someone who knows what they're doing. Save yourself the trouble and gain some peace of mind.

[93 325i]

It is not hard one bit...The tranny should be warm. To do the job you need:
-jack
-Sta Lube pump <---can get at any auto store for $3.00
-Empty windshield washer container
-3/8 drive socket wrench
-2 quarts ATF tranny fluid- I used redline D4 ATF

1. Jack car up and secure it.
2. Remove fill bolt on tranny then remove drain bolt.
3. Let the fluid drain completely and tighten the drain bolt.
4. Fill the windsheild washer container with the new fluid and screw on the Sta Lube pump.
5. Put the hose from the pump into the fill bolt opening and pump the fluid in.
6. The tranny need 1.2 quarts so I pump approx that amount -THEN- lower the car off the jack (so it's even-on a flat surface) and keep pumping until the fluid spills out the fill opening.
7. Jack car back up and remove the lube pump.
8. Tighten the fill bolt.

Thats it..lower car and start her up. I let it idle a good 5-10 minutes then drive her carefully until im convinced the new oil is worked in.
And a little tip- I was used to hondas where the tranny is in the front by the axle. On the bimmer the tranny is right in the middle of the car..Dont undo the motor oil drain pan instead by accident- which is located in the front..