About Josh Fields Expertise I can answer questions related to the BMW e30. These are the cars produced from 1984-1991 (1992 for convertable) in the United states. I am more fluent with the six cylinder models, although few things changed for the 4 cylinder cars. I know most of the problematic areas of these cars, and have found ways to fix them.
Experience I have owned six different E30's over the last 10 years. I do all my own work, and know about ever nut and bolt on these cars.
Question I have a 1985 bmw 325e with clutch problems. Every now and then it likes to go dead in one of 2 ways.
1) the clutch pedal pressure will just be gone. I also believe that it is leaking out brake fluid because I need to constantly refill the brake fluid.
2) the stick shift will freeZe up and not want to move into gear.
I replaced the slave cylindar awhile back and it was good for a month or 2 then it started all over again.
Ocassionally the problem seems to fix itself for awhile then start again.
Thank you
Answer Johnny,
Well if you replaced the slave cylinder and the problem is still there, then look to the mastercylinder. This will usually show the same signs as what you said. There is a cylinder with rubber seals on sides that ride inside another cylinder. These seals get worn down and let fluid pass by them. If you are loosing fluid, try do determin where you are loosing it. It could be a line that is leaking. Make sure to check the fittings where the slave cylinder connects, and check the bleed screw to make sure it's not leaking there (do not over-tighten).
You should be able to find a rebuild kit, with these black seals in it, and it should fix the problem. If you are not up to replacing them your self you could purchas a whole mastercylinder assembly (more expensive).
So for now, try to locate exactly where the leak is. if there is nothing leaking on the hoses, or on the slave cylinder (unbolt it and check the inside of the bell housing) then your problem could be the master cylinder, and the fluid could be sucked up by the vacuum line on the booster.
