2000 328i trans position switch

[pnvenzon]

I see traces of fluid on the tranny position switch. RealOEM indicates that there is a shaft seal ( see part #2 http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=AM53&mospid=47723&btnr=24_0936& hg=24&fg=15 ). Can someone tell me how to replace the shaft seal or how to remove the trans position switch? Do I need to drop the transmission to do this? Appreciate your help in advance.-Peter

[Jeron]

I don't know for sure on the automatic but on the manual there is enough room to drive a new seal on top of the old one. My mechanic told me thats what they usually do. I had to do it that way even though I had the tranny out of the car because I could get the old seal out.

[pnvenzon]

Jeron,
Thank you for the quick response. So in your opinion, tranny has to be dropped in order to replace seal. If this is the case, I will just live with this tiny leak.

[Jeron]

On the manual you do NOT have to drop the tranny. Sorry my tranny out comment was just to show how hard it was to get the seal out on the manual.

On the auto I doubt you have to drop the tranny. You should be able to slide under there and see how hard it will be pretty easily.