Shifter Bushings

[blakelocati]

So, I will be getting a BMW performance SSK installed soon, but I have a quick question first. Since I got my car, I have had some shifter problem (3rd gear balking at me, sometimes doesn't want to engage into first the first time, etc). Someone mentioned that it would be in my interest to change out the shifter bushings. So, I thought it may be a good idea to switch these out while I was having the SSK installed. This brings me to my question (and please excuse my ignorance when it comes to the inter-workings of a manual): Are the shifter bushing something that the person installing the SSK will be already dealing with during the install? In other words, would it be easy enough for him to just swap out those bushings while installing the SSK? Also, would it be best to go with OEM bushings or something aftermarket? Any suggestions? This looks like a viable solution but quite expensive for something so simple:

http://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E82-135...fter/ES259542/

Thanks for any help!

[B-Dawg]

I think the BMW ssk is just the lever. So replacing the bushings for the selector rod, which is what you posted a link to, is beyond just swapping the lever. If you are experiencing that much slop with your shifter, it is a good idea to do the bushings and check your transimission mounts. I put in a UUC double shear selector rod with the ssk and it firms things up nicely.

Although their is cost associated with the increased labor for the bushings and possibly mounts, it will save you loads of money compared to a money shift.

[blakelocati]

I'm pretty sure that they have to do more than just change out the selector rod with the 135i kit (look at the pic). I know they have to go under the car for sure, so maybe it would be in my best interest to get the SSK, bushings, and a UUC selector rod all done at once? Anyone have an idea of where to get new bushing or possible a parts diagram?

[SfValley335i]

BMW SSK is the two metal parts in the picture above.

[Dackelone]

Originally Posted by blakelocati

...Anyone have an idea of where to get new bushing or possible a parts diagram?

http://realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?...42&hg=25&fg=05

[blakelocati]

Originally Posted by Dackelone

Attachment 799276

http://realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?...42&hg=25&fg=05

Thanks, bud. It looks like the BMW SSK kit reuses the factory bushings. It looks like I should be getting 2, 3, and 4 in order to replace them?

Edit: looks like ECS Tuning has those OEM parts I just mentioned, or they have those replacements I mentioned in the OP. decisions decisions. replacement bushing and bolts are only $20 btw.

[blakelocati]

So, this is what I have decided so far. I think I am going to buy all this stuff and have a local Bimmer shop install it all for me:

-BMW performance SSK
-(2) shifter bushings
-right bearing pin
-left bearing pin
-(2) transmission mounts (and nuts)
-Modified CDV

I figure this should help out the shifting quite a bit. I'm going to skip the UUC selector rod for now.

[Dackelone]

Originally Posted by blakelocati

So, this is what I have decided so far. I think I am going to buy all this stuff and have a local Bimmer shop install it all for me:

-BMW performance SSK
-(2) shifter bushings
-right bearing pin
-left bearing pin
-(2) transmission mounts (and nuts)
-Modified CDV

I figure this should help out the shifting quite a bit. I'm going to skip the UUC selector rod for now.

Don't forget to order two exhaust gaskets for where the mid pipe bolts up to the down pipes. Your shop will most likely need to drop the mid pipes for easy access to the shifter linkage. bmw #18307553603 they are about $20 each.

[Dackelone]

Originally Posted by blakelocati

Thanks, bud. It looks like the BMW SSK kit reuses the factory bushings. It looks like I should be getting 2, 3, and 4 in order to replace them?

Edit: looks like ECS Tuning has those OEM parts I just mentioned, or they have those replacements I mentioned in the OP. decisions decisions. replacement bushing and bolts are only $20 btw.

IF your car has a lot of miles on it... I would also order: #5, 6, 12 & 14.

Also make sure to order #9 - the shifter socket - this part is always shot or breaks when you remove it. Also get some MSO2(molly grease like for cv joints) or lithium grease to "grease" all the new linkage slots.

#12 dowel pins will tend to mushroom or oval over use of the shift linkage.

[blakelocati]

Thanks Dack. It's amazing how much they get away with charging for these parts. #5 is $20 alone. haha Anyway, did you have all of these items changed when you installed your SSK too?