Sloppy early model shifter

[benjamin]

Hey guys,

Trying to get rid of the slop in the shifter in my 1985 325e. So far I have done everything in this kit but have NOT done the upper and lower ball cups. Everything was OEM BMW.

https://www.ecstuning.com/b-assembled-by-ecs-parts/shifter-rebuild-kit/25117501309kt/

It’s slightly improved but still loads of slop. What else do I need to do besides the upper and lower ball cups?

[e30sh]

If it has lots of miles, the shifter end where the selector rod attaches and the selector rod end will wear.

Did you install the little yellow washer on the shifter to selector rod joint? That will help a little.

[benjamin]

Yes I did replace those yellow plastic washers!

I guess the play side to side when in gear is much better now, but it still doesnÂ’t change gears easily. I drove a super ratty 85 318 and it shifted significantly nicer then mine.

[mtech325]

If you really want to tighten up the shifter, use two of the bottom cup bushings (may have to file one down a bit), then one of the top. It'll get rid of the spring. Works on early model cars, and have also tried on a late model 2002.