Loud shifting, any ideas?

**newrider** · #1 31 Jul 2004

Hello, I inherited a 1971 R60/5 BMW from my dad. I was not an avid bike rider, but I commited myself to get my license and ride my dad's old bike to keep his memory alive and to pass it down through the family. I am enjoying 20-30 mile rides now and then. I cleaned up the bike that hasnt been ridden in 8 years and have been riding it for a few months now. It only has 30k on it and runs great, except for the shifting. When I shift gears the bike seems to "CLUNK" into gear most of the time. Is there some kind of transmission lubricant I should be using or is this normal in old bikes? I would appreciate any suggestions.

Thank you,

newrider

**Grant Johnson** · #2 1 Aug 2004

Hi, and welcome!

Yes, this is completely normal on the older Beemers like that one.

The recommended gearbox oil on the is just plain 80W-90 gear oil. You can also use synthetic 75W-140 or similar, but it MAY cause the old seals to leak. If so, just go back to the old oil. It may shift a little better with the synthetic.

Do check the rubber boot where th speedo cable enters the gearbox - right rear upper of the gearbox - behind the carbs - and make sure it's in perfect condition. If any damage replace it immediately. This boot is on of the biggest causes of BMW gearbox failure - water from rain or washing gets in past it and rusts the bearings, which then fail and take out the whole gearbox.

I'd also have a dealer check it out, they'll usually do a test ride and let you know if it needs anything for free. Best to have an expert check just in case the clunk is abnormally bad.

Enjoy the ride, that's a great old bike!

------------------
Grant Johnson

Seek, and ye shall find.
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One world, Two wheels.
www.HorizonsUnlimited.com

**Spanish Bob** · #3 30 Aug 2004

New rider - the best source of info for airheads is www.airheads.org. Join and access a great club. Ask Oak for technical info, what he doesn´t know, you certainly wont need to.

bob