E30 325i auto gearbox problem

Hi,

I've a 1986 E30 325i which has been superb - until recently... It had been driving smooth but a noise which was very co**** appeared whilst driving. I took it to a mechanic who said the gearbox oil was low and topped it up.

Driving back to London from B'ham and there was suddenly no power-the car would rev but wouldn't move. Its now undriveable -g oing through the gears and nothing happens.
The inital co**** sound is much louder too like metal on metal friction.

The car has only done 28k miles from new and bar some rust on the rear bootlid is almost immaculate.

Im thinking by letting the fluid run low, i've caused damage to the box?

Amy help will be hugely appreciated

Thanks

Difficult to diagnose this remotely. However, if it's going through the gears you could be lucky and it not be the box.

I'd check the prop. If the centre bearing's broken up or if fact any of the joints, the drive will not get to the diff and so no movement. The big hint in your post is "going through the gears but nothing happens".

Get it up on stands (high as you can). MAKE SURE ITS PROPERLY SUPPORTED!!!. Start the car, release the handbrake and put it in drive on tickover. NO NEED TO RAISE REVS. Look under the car and look to see if the output shaft from the rear of the gearbox is turning. then look at the input flange of the diff. Is it turning? If not, somethings gone between the two i.e.the prop. If the output shaft of the box is not turning it's box problems I'm afraid.

Edited by whitey

Update on the box:

Seems the oil pump has gone and the converter has been damaged. Just awaiting a cost before I quit or carry on with it..

thought of converting to manual? or do you prefer the auto box?

the auto box's are known for being weak (not terrible, but nothing like as strong as the manual).