98 323i tranny noise

jazzy91 · 11-01-2006, 05:18 AM

On my 98 323i convertible, I'm getting a funny sounding noise through the console/autoshift area, sort of a clicking-light knocking sound. Can someone explain this to me? I have no problem with the transmission as of yet. Thanks......

Jeron · Jeron's Garage

Does it vary with: Engine speed? Vehicle speed?

jazzy91 · 11-01-2006, 05:47 AM

Yes, it does vary, really annoying!

Jeron · Jeron's Garage

What I'm asking is which one does it vary by?

While stopped try putting it in neutral as revving to see if it increases. Then try neutral revving while moving at various speeds and note the change.

jazzy91 · 11-01-2006, 05:57 AM

Only makes the sound in drive. When I go to neutral, rev it up, sounds ok. In park it's ok also. But it will not make that sound all the time! Here lately, I noticed it getting a little louder, but no real problems with shifting.

Jeron · Jeron's Garage

Is it a consistent rhythm?

It could be something spinning on the drive shaft like frayed rubber from a torn Guibo or it could be something hitting the drive shaft like a stick or other road debris. It could also be something loose that is vibrating from wind or engine vibrations like a fuel line or piece of heat shield.

jazzy91 · 11-01-2006, 07:33 AM

Could be! It really sounds internal, nothing like a physical part hitting or rubbing. Your description matches pretty close to what I was thinking, but feel it goes a little deeper than that. Thanks alot for you help.

jazzy91 · 11-03-2006, 09:35 AM

I can see by a diagram of a breakdown of that transmission, that there may be certain parts that will allow the transmission to maybe partially slip out of gear causing that parculiar clicking/rattling sound. Can someone elaborate more so I might locate the problem before I have to take it to the shop. Thanks.

Wayne 962 · Wayne 962's Garage

Quote:

Originally posted by Jeron
Is it a consistent rhythm?

It could be something spinning on the drive shaft like frayed rubber from a torn Guibo or it could be something hitting the drive shaft like a stick or other road debris. It could also be something loose that is vibrating from wind or engine vibrations like a fuel line or piece of heat shield.

I agree. I'd bet that the guibo is failing and is hitting your shift linkage. Replace it now before it leaves you stranded. Here's a tech article:

http://www.pelicanparts.com/bmw/techarticles/E36-Guibo/E36-Guibo.htm

-Wayne