Manual Shifter Rebuild Parts For BMW 5 & 3-Series (E34 E36)

As a BMW ages, the transmission begins to become imprecise. This is due to age and wear of the associated parts. As a result, poor shifting, sloppy/loose gearing, and missed shifts can occur. When this happens it is best to begin to replace all the parts in the gearshift assembly. The following is a list of the usual suspects, and all work in conjunction with each other. Though I suggest the replacement of all the items at time of service, it is up to you to inspect each part to determine if replacement is necessary.

Shift Lever Bearing

The first usual suspect is the shift lever bearing. It sits in the shifting arm cup cradling the shift lever. These tend to crack or break over time and should be replaced. They can cause the shift lever to become loose and/or pop out resulting in lackluster shifting and dangerous situations if the lever is released from the cup while in motion.

Selector Rod Joint

Another item of interest is the selector rod joint. Over time the bushing inside will begin to bow out and wear unevenly. When this occurs the shift selector rod will begin to have a play or loose feel. Make sure you replace with the proper joint for there are several transmission-specific joints available.

Within the selector rod joint there is a small foam piece or cushion which sits inside. This cushion is the manual trans selector rod joint bushing . As it ages the joint will pivot loosely contributing to any play experienced. Though these pieces can be obtained individually, i t is recommended you purchase the joint with the bushing already in place. When replacing the joint also replace the dowel pin and lock ring. The lock ring may be included with the rod joint bushing, so order the proper locking ring for your car if not included with the new rod joint.

Shift Lever Bushing

One item that can cause looseness in the shifting arm is the shift lever bushing. This bushing in conjunction with the shift rod bolt connects the shift arm to the transmission. It is often overlooked due to the difficulty of removing the shift rod bolt. Hence, the shift rod bolt has some very colorful names which I will not get into. Replacing the trans shift lever bushing will firm up the base of the shift arm minimizing any vibrations, looseness and/or unbalance in the shift arm.

Shift Arm Bearing

On the furthest part of the shifter arm is the shifter arm bearing. Encased inside of a bracket, this item controls the movement of the rear part of the shifter arm. Due to the location of the bracket under the car, the bearing and the bracket tend to degrade and corrode over time. It is possible to just replace the bearing, however the process of removal is not for the novice. It is wiser to just replace the entire bracket combo.

Selector Rod Washer and Retaining Clips

The selector rod washers and retaining clips are two of the most overlooked parts. Each manual transmission BMW has at least four washers and two clips, The clips usually last for some time but can become loose. It's not unheard of reusing them. But, if they look like they've seen better days it may be time to replace them. The washers take up the space or slack between the mating surfaces of the shift rod, the selector rod joint and the shift lever. Though their effects on the gearshift assembly are minor, they can contribute to the poor condition of an already worn assembly.

Replacement of these washers will firm up the shift lever and often smooth out the transitions between shifts. As easy as it is to replace the clips and washers it's just as easy to lose them. I suggest using a small container or coffee can to put them in while working. After spending a good amount of time under your car the last thing you want is to misplace them.

Gear Shift Refreshment kits and Short Shift Kits

There are full shift rebuild kits available for the E36 BMW 3-series if you'd rather buy everything at once. Gear shift refreshment kits usually include all the items I mentioned. It's a more popular way of bringing the stock performance back to the gear shift assembly without worrying if anything is missing. Those looking for an upgrade in the shifter over stock usually can find a short shift kit (SSK) to be more suitable. Along with the necessary rebuild items, a shorter shift lever will shorten the throw of the gear shift assembly.

Which ever route you decide, once these parts are replaced your car will shift like new and further your driving pleasure.

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Written by :

William Yelder

William is an enthusiast, entrepreneur, BMWCCA member, and admitted adrenaline junky from Freehold, NJ. Preferring the classic lines over modern convenience, he’s continuously improving the performance of his ’95 BMW 5-Series, One bolt at a time.