Stalling/Skipping problem on an automatic

[bmwstephen]

when the rpms drop, how much is it dropping by before reving back up?

[BrooklynMW]

Please, just nobody tell me it's the transmission

[BrooklynMW]

PROBLEM SOLVED: MAIN RELAY

The car: 1987 325i Automatic

Lately I've been having an issue with stalling or "skipping" on my automatic. It only happens at low speeds, usually under 25mph, especially when I'm either in traffic or city streets. Basically anytime I am gently riding the gas pedal, stopping and going.

I'm the farthest thing from a mechanic, but it kind of feels like it's missing 2nd gear. Or when I'm riding 1st gear, almost to the point if shifting into 2nd, and have to slow back down. The car will either stall out completely, or "skip". (the tach and revs will drop out for a split second, and then shoot up right after). Also, when it skips, the Check Engine light blinks on for a milisecond. (Blink and you'll miss it)

Once I've been driving for a while past 40 mph, the problem goes away. The funny part is, that if I slow back down after driving on the highway, the problem also goes away. This leads me to believe that it could be the alternator. Perhaps it takes a good while for the alt to get enough juice out of the battery.

I should probably mention that I've been having abhard time starting it in the morning. Sometimes it just won't crank. Could this be related?


So, my guesses:
-transmission slipping between 1st & 2nd
or
-alternator

Am I spot on, or way off?

PROBLEM SOLVED: MAIN RELAY