Hard to shift into 2nd - synchro issue ?

[joe in nashvegas]

I'm considering upgrading the shifting linkage -
it's sloppy, but 2nd gear is really the toughest to "get into ".
There's an odd feel going from 1st to 2nd.

Wondering if this is a symptom of worn synchros or not....

[Guest]

If you have an E28 M5 with a G280, yes, it's a common problem and it is probably the synchro's. My G280 has the same problem and it was not aparent until I installed a short throw shifter... The decrease in lever amplified the problem.

I have been living with the "notchy" 2nd gear issue for 2 years now. The best thing to do (besides having the trans rebuilt) is massage it in to gear... double clutching and rev matching.

If I didn't already have a spare G280, I'd be looking for a nice G260 to eventually replace my notchy G280. From what I gather, though not a close ratio, the G260 is a more robust box.

Good luck.
-E

[Heine]

The G280 trans has a tricky second gear,aside from the synchros.
If you aren't getting a grinding noise it's likely the nature of the beast.
Different people have tried different fluids with different results.
-Mineral ATF fluid with Dow Corning Z-moly powder added($40.00).
-Redline MTL(whatever the proper weight)

I tried the Z-moly powder with good results.

Chris
E34///M5

[e28blackbeauty]

I am also in the "2nd gear is awful" group. I heard the trannys a pain to get rebuilt. I think I'll decide this winter if I will just live with it, or do something about it. but this problem is with my 535i, so far no problems with the m5