Using 1-2-3 on my Auto box...

[TheRam]

Hello.

When i need to get away a little quicker I sometimes manually flick through 1-2-3 then to D on my auto box (1990 316i).

Obviously the revs go higher than normal in each gear when doing this (never to the red line mind).

Is this ok to do from time to time or does it have the potential to start gearbox problems even when done occasionally?

Thanks

Kit

[mrLEE30]

the only issues i know of with using this is the autobox works harder and thus gets hotter, this increases the potential for overheating and burning the fluid, but his is when done on a trrack for prolonged periods, normal use will not do much harm - best bet is to check the fluid condition regularly, pay attention to the level and the colour, red ok.... dark brown/black is not ok

[TheRam]

Thanks.

Kit

[Paul325ITouring]

Yeah I would say the same as above I would get the gear box oil changed ever 2nd service as well

[DavieP]

I change the oil every year. It's always red, but I prefer to play safe. Mind you, I don't bother to up and down using the lever unless road conditions are poor and I want to stay in the same gear. If I want more oomph, I floor the accelerator and it drops down a cog or two.

[nicey]

@theram, drag racing cars use 1-2-3 etc as the gearbox can change quicker for them, the only problem like the other posts say is the extra pressure you put on the box reving it so high, my missus has a 316i auto, as you know when you have it in drive and floor it, it only rev's to 5000 before it changes, personally I don't think the last 1000 rpm makes much difference on the 0-60 time, I only use the manual overide when going up/down long hills or if it is icy.
Hope this helps.

[TheRam]

Thanks Nicey.

Sometimes i think i like doing it because i miss my old Manual!

Kit