Towing a 1984 BMW 325e manual

mowermech wrote:
The issue is, does the transmission output shaft get lubricated when the vehicle is moving in neutral without the engine running?
If it does, then you are good to go.
If it does not, then eventually the output shaft bearing and seal will be damaged due to lack of lube. It may take a while, but it WILL happen! some say it can be solved by towing with the engine running. that is probably true, but I would not do it. Some say it can be solved by installing an elbow in the transmission fill port, pointing up, and filling the transmission to the top of the elbow, thus increasing the lubricant level in the transmission. Yes, on some transmissions that does work, although it may cause leaks. I do not know if it will work with a BMW.
What does the Owners Manual say about towing?

Or, just put it in top gear so they both spin for sure? I doubt you'd exceed max engine rpm in 5th behind a motorhome, but I guess some people are in a hurry. :)

I am a tech by trade and have hear so much of both ways on it. Deciding not to tow, but may trailer as it is such a fun car to drive.

Have you checked to see if anyone actually manufactures a baseplate for your BMW ??

The issue is, does the transmission output shaft get lubricated when the vehicle is moving in neutral without the engine running?
If it does, then you are good to go.
If it does not, then eventually the output shaft bearing and seal will be damaged due to lack of lube. It may take a while, but it WILL happen! some say it can be solved by towing with the engine running. that is probably true, but I would not do it. Some say it can be solved by installing an elbow in the transmission fill port, pointing up, and filling the transmission to the top of the elbow, thus increasing the lubricant level in the transmission. Yes, on some transmissions that does work, although it may cause leaks. I do not know if it will work with a BMW.
What does the Owners Manual say about towing?

Hope you can. A fun car to drive. Wish I had my old one back.

If it a 4 speed then YES, if it's the 5 speed probably, but you need to check. It's the 6 speed trannies that become a issue to tow.

If dinghy towing is not covered in the owners manual, I would contact a BMW repair shop.
Not all manual transmissions can be towed 4 down.