Shifter Rattling Problem!

[m3f_mrjenkins]

I am having a serious rattling problem with the shifter in my 1998 M3/4. I have replaced the shifter cup (pn 25-11-1-469-397) and the lower spacers (pn 25-11-1-220-439) but it still rattles like crazy (almost seems to have gotten worse). When doing the aforementioned R&R I noticed the shift lever ball has some scarring on it, but not sure if that is the source of the rattle. The shifter is otherwise fine, with no real slop. BTW, when you push on the lever, the rattling does stop.



I am ready to start replacing other components, but since most of this work will require dropping the driveshaft & exhaust, I would appreciate any insight or experience you can give.

[m3f_CrazzyM3]

Do you have a short shifter on your car?:???: Cause I read somewhere that that can cause a rattle. Sounds like the same problem your having........cause it mentioned when they held the lever it stopped...........



Here's the site.........



http://www.mazdatrix.com/shiftrat.htm



It's a mazda site but I wonder if the same would apply to a E36.



Does the noise start when the rpm's are high or above something......or is it all the time?



If it starts around 3000 RPM or higher it could be due to loose hanger for the exhaust, or heat shield. I hope that helps.....but that wouldn't explain why the noise would stop when you push down on the lever.

[m3f_Roadrunner_00430f3330]

try a heavier shifter knob(Titanium Cavillino, UUC Rob Knob or a Whalen knob) and tranny mounts.