> > I *think* reverse, neutral and one forward gear are part of
>> > the limp
>> > home mode so independent of ECU control. So I'd first check
>> > the gear
>> > change cable is in fact selecting the position correctly.
>> > Doesn't
>> > sound like a clutch pack fault. More likely something
>> > sticking in the
>> > hydraulics, if it is being selected properly.
>
>> Cheers Dave. I'll pass your comments on. I can't believe the
>> g/b needs
>> to be replaced for what appears to be an actuator fault,
>> rather than a
>> fault with the g/b mechanics, or clutches.
>
>> As you suggest, checking the cable is probably the best thing
>> to check,
>> before anything else, but if it is a sticking hydraulic clutch
>> actuator, do you know if they can be replaced or serviced
>> without
>> stripping the g/b?
>
> If it's the clutch or actuator I'd say it's a total stripdown
> job. If a
> valve sticking, it might be possible in situ. But that's a
> guess.
Spoke to him this evening, and things have changed. Now it appears as if reverse is slipping, and it does it every time it's selected. It will reverse at tickover on level ground, but if given any accelerator, it just revs, and the car stops. It's beginning to sound expensive.
He rang the local BMW main dealer today. They had similar ideas as yourself about the fault, but they can't check it until next week.
> If it's not the cable, maybe an oil change would help? I'm
>> trying to
>> think of cheaper alternatives to try, before more expensive
>> options,
>> like a new g/b.. My friend is not that well off.
>
> It would do no harm - but the correct fluid is very pricey. You > really
> need the advice of a specialist - but I don't know of one. Most > will
> simply want to fit a recon box.
>
> Secondhand boxes don't seem to go for a fortune on Ebay,
> though.
Had a look on eBay. Steptronic gearboxes seem to go for anything between £300 and £700. Even at £300 it's not going to be cheap by the time labour costs are added.
I told him he should have bought an E39. :-) Mike.