Shifter Play.

[E30_Pare]

Ok so basically I have lots of play in my shifter. Just replaced all the bushings with new oem ones not to long ago. My shifter is not stiff at all and moves extremely easily in neutral and while in gear side to side. I want to tighten up my shifter, but don't have any ideas where to start or check for that matter.

*Note: Not a short shifter. I am using the stock lever.

[E30SPDFRK]

What style shifter support do you have?

[E30_Pare]

which part are you talking about?

[E30SPDFRK]

I was asking if you had #5 on the second pic type support or the other type. There should be an allen-head bolt on the back side that you can tighten up. This can work its way loose over time.

If that is fine, what shape is your shifter ball in?

[E30_Pare]

Ah ok. I just took a look at my shifter ball and it looks to be in good condition still. I'll take a look at the support in the morning.

[Jean]

Replace parts #1 and #16 at the minimum, #4 does wear out as well and if your shifter is original it might have lots of play in it on it's own as is it's not 1 piece.

[Kingb]

I ahve a 90 325i and I bought an ebay SS and teh shifter rebuild kit from pelican for like $80 and mine is still sloppy. I replaced everything that came with the kit except for the plastic cups since I had a new shifter and #14 I couldn't get that thing in there lined up. It feels like I am in Nuetral when it is in gear. What gives?

[Griffin]

I've got the same issue on my 84 318i. lots more play pulling the shifter left than right, so reverse is a chore to get into. I'm ordering the rebuild kit from pelican, but hopefully I don't have the same issues as Kingb when I'm done!

[E30_Pare]

I'm going to order the rebuild kit from pelican soon. Let me know how it works out for you.

[ieatpeople]

I've got the same issue on my 84 318i. lots more play pulling the shifter left than right, so reverse is a chore to get into. I'm ordering the rebuild kit from pelican, but hopefully I don't have the same issues as Kingb when I'm done!

i have the same problem with my 88 528e, keep me posted on that shifter rebuild kit.

[Rlp815]

I have this same problem. New short shift kit, but the shifter moves a couple inches side to side while in gear. Whats the fix?

Bob

[Jean]

This isn't really rocket science guys. Look at EVERY platic/wear item and replace it (this includes the shifter ITSELF). Done.