gear box questions ?

[BDC6570]

my box is leaking on my 325i cab not pouring out but dripping when left to sit after a drive for a while then stops. do i
A= just keep topping up on oil
B=change box?
C= if i do change can i do myself or is it a garage job ?

the box is a bit stiff when she first start up then after she warm its good.

[jaydub]

depends how much money you want to spend ! its always better to get a garage to do it , that way if anything goes wrong its their fault !

[koos]

Jet wash off the box, take it for a drive. It might be a relatively simple fix, output seal, shift rod seal. Check it out yourself first, then if all else fails.....take it in.

[Brianmoooore]

its always better to get a garage to do it

Having seen many examples of 'garage' work on many assorted vehicles, I wouldn't let a garage anywhere near any of my cars!
The oil leak is most likely to be one of three seals. Clean it off and see where it's coming from!
The stiff gearchange when cold can be cured by filling the box with ATF (automatic transmission fluid) instead of SAE80 oil.

[BDC6570]

Thanks all , have done the clean . i think coming from the leak is coming gear box housing .Would it be easier to change the seals or pre owned box ? I have just picked up one for £20 1ts come off a 1990 325i would that be ok for mine 88 325i cab ?

[Brianmoooore]

Replacement gearbox should fit OK, but I'd change the gear shift selector shaft seal before it's fitted.

[BDC6570]

Thanks , is there any thing else i would need to carry out the tranplant in way of seals other parts ect

[Brianmoooore]

Would be a good time to check the condition of the clutch, gear selector linkage, rubber guibo, prop center bearing mount, exhaust, and since the prop and exhaust will be off, the fuel tank, rear brake lines, rear subframe mounts, etc., etc.

[BDC6570]

Why did i buy an E30 ?

[Brianmoooore]

Most of these things only need attention about every 20 years or so.
Once sorted, an E30 will be one of the most reliable, trouble free cars on the road, easily outlasting all the modern, mass produced, soulless, shiny tat in the showrooms today.

[koos]

You have a way with words Mr Moore