BMW E46 shifting....need opinions.
 

Hi all,
I just picked up a 2001 BMW 330ci. I am used to driving hondas when it comes to manual tranny. So when I drive my 330 it seems like the shifting isn't as smooth as the honda as in when i go from 1st to 2nd i can feel it shift...where as the honda just falls into gear with one finger. is this normal??

Thanks.

what honda did u drive before? i find the beamers shift actually pretty ok, they dont exactly fall into gear, but the shifts feel pretty good.

as far as i know, the beamer guys like getting the clutch delete kit. apparently there is a pinch in the clutch to allow not so good manual drivers not harm the transmission. donno if that will help, but seems to be pretty popular.

drove an 2001 accord before...ya it does feel pretty good but not as good as the accord...where can you get these clutch delete kits and how much??
thanks

look at clutch delay valve delete

i think maybe its the CDV ( clutch delay valve )
http://www.zeckhausen.com/CDV.htm

check it out, its one of the first mods most bimmers owners do

edit: didnt see other posts :)

thanks alot guys

any local shops sell these??

yeah sorry, forgot the full name for it, not clutch delete, but that clutch valve delete thing.

another thing to consider is if the car is an 01, has the tranny fluid been serviced?

I used to have a 330ci, I would recommend the following;

1) CDV delete. Most local shops can do it. It will give you a much firmer engagement.

2) SSK - the stock shifter uses allot of plastics and rubber. I would recommend UUC or Turner ssk. I would also replace all the plastic and rubber bushings delrin bushings. Much shorter and firmer throws. Ony downfall is slightly more shifting effort.

tried calling a few shops and some don't even know what these are..haha...any specific shops around richmond or burnaby area??

Call Chris at CG motors in Richmond, he will know about the mods. Check out UUC or Turner Motorsports website. I also suggest you sign up on the following forums;

E46Fanactics
Bimmer Forums
Bimmerfest

Do a search on CDV delete and ssk.

yo thanks bro..

^ good luck with the new ride, hope you enjoy the 330ci.....one awesome bang for the buck mod is to switch your 3.07(5-speeds, I think?) rear diff to the auto rear diff which is 3.38. Makes big diff in acceleration.

have you tried the RS sponsors?
They do good work.

CDV, make it or check www.zeckhausen.com
also consider a SSK

A new differential is the cheapest way to get more power from your e46, but keep in mind the trade-offs: slightly decreased gas mileage and increased highway RPM's.

:thumbsup:

How much does the clutch valve delete usually cost??