Removal and installation gear shift drive components (BMW 7 Series E38)

Gear shift lever

1. On manual transmission GS6-37BZ/DZ (models with M57TU engine) first remove the exhaust system and its heat shield, see Chapter Fuel and exhaust systems.



2. Remove the gear shift handle with a strong tug.

When removing, do not turn the handle, otherwise the angular movement lock located in the button will be cut off. When installing, put the handle on the lever, align it and press it so that it noticeably clicks into place.

3. Gently squeeze the gearshift boot frame and remove the boot from the center console.



4. Remove the sound insulation.



5. Remove the retainer (1) and washer (2). Remove the gear shift drive rod (3).

When installing, lubricate the gear shift rod pin.

6. Insert tool No.25 1 110 into the bearing and turn it 90° counterclockwise. Press the bearing shells upwards from the gearshift lever shaft.



7. Remove the rubber boot from the body opening and pull it out together with the gear shift lever in an upward direction.

8. Installation is carried out in reverse order. Please note the following points.



9. Place the inner rubber boot onto the shift lever support rod cup and insert the outer boot into the body opening.

10. Insert the rubber boot with the arrow facing forward when looking in the direction of travel.



11. Press the bearing shells against the tabs on the control arm support rod until they lock into place.

12. Lubricate the spherical part of the gear shift lever, insert the gear shift lever into the support rod and align the bearing shells: the arrows on the bearing should be directed parallel to the longitudinal axis of the car, and the protrusions holding the bearing should be perpendicular to the axis.

Replacing the gear selector rod sleeve

1. Disconnect the propeller shaft from the manual transmission (see chapter Cardan and drive shafts, gearbox, differential and hub assemblies).



2. Remove the locking clip.



3. Remove the gear shift drive rod (1) from the gear selection rod housing (2) and remove the washers (3).

When installing, lubricate the pin (4) of the gearshift drive rod. The washer (3) should fit against the collar (2) with its larger surface.

4. Hook the snap ring (1) installed in the groove and move it back a little. Press the cylindrical pin (2) up or down from the gear selector shaft sleeve and remove the sleeve.

When installing, lubricate the spherical part of the rod and replace the spring ring (1).

5. Check and, if necessary, replace the rubber washer (1) in the housing (2) of the gear selector rod.

6. Installation is carried out in reverse order. Please note the following points.