I have been talking to a guy about his '83 320i; sounds okay except it will not go in reverse (5spd). What comes to mind as far as possibilities? Linkage? Is there a weakness in the transmission which affects reverse? Thanks for the ideas.

does he know how to put it in reverse?

no real problems with the trannies or motors in these cars

Vacuum Leaks!!!! you can never check too much.

Vacuum Leaks!!!! you can never check too much.
:lol

My son and I thrash my 80 320iS all the time at the autox's - it has 242,000 on the tranny with no work done to it, Except for new linkage pieces.

how much is the guy asking? I've only known one person who needed a manual trans in an e21 and that was Marinersfan, and that was a 4-spd.

1983, will not go in reverse, rust in trunk bed and under the pedal assembly. $650.

it would be best if you showed us some pics. email them to me at rickysgarage@msn.com and ill post them up for you.

-Rick

could be this one. I've been thinking about checking it out for a while. It has been listed for a few months. http://atlanta.craigslist.org/car/627109134.html

^ thats an is. at least it looks like one. air damn, wheels, recaros... not bad IMO for 650

It is an "is", I have been considering it for the parts; the diff, seats, air dam and steering wheel are worth it, and a spare engine to play with!