Grey transmission fluid and shavings E30 5 speed manual

[Obito22]

I drained my transmission fluid and found this , either I still have much to learn or is this not normal . it has over 200k miles and hasn’t been rebuilt . Sign of a blown transmission?

[roguetoaster]

It's the sign of an abused or neglected transmission. It doesn't mean it's dead. If there is a specific gear or shift that's problematic you'll know to be more gentle there.

[MR 325]

Change it out for high quality fluid (we use Motul) and see how it shifts. Should be OK.

[Obito22]

I’ll try the Motul , but 2nd gear has always felt a little delicate

[roguetoaster]

I’ll try the Motul , but 2nd gear has always felt a little delicate

2nd is almost always the gear that gets the most abuse in regular cars. After you change the fluid and drive normally for a while try double clutching your way up and down the gears to see if you notice a difference anywhere.

[Digitalwave]

I just drained a transmission and the fluid was grey like this. Upon some research I guess it's quite common; it happens when gear oil absorbs moisture. There could be a leak letting moisture in, but more likely, it's just too old. Doing another change in the near future might be good peace of mind to know you got the rest of the old fluid out.

[TobyB]

Grey, or silver sparkles?

Aluminum likes to stay in solution in gear oil...

the 4th gear fork is usually aluminum...

t
doomngloom

[Digitalwave]

My trans fluid was grey, like Nardo Grey Audi color. The engine, on the other hand, had the forbidden glitter.

[packratbimmer]

I would do one flush with Redline ATF and then see how the car does with Redline ATF. If it is not great, switch to Redline MTF.