M3 Evo Gearbox problems

[StaffordPotter]

My E36 Evo manual gearbox has developed a nasty habit of not going into the top section of gears (as in Rev, 1, 3, 5) 2,4,6 all work fine and it does sometimes jump out of 1st. Will I need a replacement box, if so I've been informed that the SMG box will go straight in just by keeping the shifter?? Please help!!!!

[Omi]

SMG isn't a straight or easy swap... Requires associated ECUs and additional wiring, as well as changing EWS-II and DME to suit, I understand.

The Evo 6-speed box is, frankly, made of chocolate, and MUCH bigger and heavier than the 5spd. - No real advantage in having it. - Plenty of the ZF 5spd boxes around, as they were on all M3s, 328i, 328i Sport, etc... - May need matching 328i/M3 prop to account for differing box lengths. - Whole thing is nut and bolt swap and should take someone with skills a half-day of labour. (Where you at? May be able to recommend.) Give a maximum of £200 for a low mileage box and prop with good provenance.

Selector fork and spring return are the common failures, if I recall correctly. - Friend's experience leads me to believe that buying the necessary components is virtually impossible.

[StaffordPotter]

Thanks for that, basically I'm screwed then unless I put the 5 speed in (definately the cheaper option though) But will this put people off when I come to sell it?? My old fellas a mechanic so not a problem with getting the work done! Again many thanks for the reply I'll see what I can get hold of

[Omi]

If someone comes to look at the car and notes the 6spd is missing, you tell them it's a weak point on that model, yours failed so you replaced it with a stronger, cheaper, lighter 5-gang from a non-Evo.

If they know their stuff they'll understand. - If you seem to know your stuff, they'll accept this as the fact it is. - If they can't understand/accept, then you don't sell your motor to a spaz.

[StaffordPotter]

Top man you have a point!!!!!