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One thing to be aware of is that the height of the trans tunnel is different on the auto and manual trans cars (difference is probably less than an inch). Its not a huge difference but you will run into clearance issues with the shift linkage. The x3 linkage will also raise the height a little farther. I have to take apart an auto interior next week and can take a pic of the section that needs to be cut out. I just took a piece of 18 guage stainless and cut myself a piece in the same shape to rivet/seam seal to the body.

Your chassis will also be missing the rear shifter bushing mount (autos dont use it). ECS the mount on their website. I tac welded mine in but i have seen people just use self tappers (not recommended)

 

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https://www.ecstuning.com/b-genuine-bmw-parts/shifter-arm-bracket/41128246251/

this is the bracket

 

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Is it all about the shifting mechanism or the linkage?

Due to lack of availability of shifting mechanisms for GS6X37BZ, I am considering using an aftermarket short shifter mechanism, that is bolted directly to the chassis. Should I still consider changing the tunnel?
View attachment 1010014

It has to do with the angle of the arms of the shift arm itself.

Here is a link to another thread talking about a broken shift arm repair.

https://www.e46fanatics.com/threads/xi-6-speed-shift-arm.1327650/?post_id=19268153&nested_view=1&sortby=oldest#post-19268153

I linked that because there is a broken 6speed linkage for sale on ebay right now

 

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That post will also have a pick of what a manual trans tunnel looks like.

 

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That post will also have a pick of what a manual trans tunnel looks like.

Actually i think that might be a manual swapped car. Ill ask!

 

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Earlier this year I bought a 2003 325xi touring. It’s an auto with 170,000 miles on it. It was $1,500, it’s got some the key e46 traits, bad window regulators, leaks oil etc etc. but after replacing some sensors and ball joints and fixing the vacuum leaks, it runs like a top. Shifts smooth, good power, temps are bang on.
The good: well speced, unabused auto awd car, great paint colour, beautiful interior, ride quality and handling is great.
The bad: kinda boring to drive, I’d rather be shifting gears. The transmission feels like rubber. Silky smooth and shifts quickish but I feel it sucks a lot of power out of the car. Highway mileage is good but city mpg is atrocious. My tranny was built on a good day and works great but sounds like they tend to go out after some time.
Would a manual swap be worth while? Is it doable in a home garage? I’d be looking to squeeze out some more fun and maybe a bit of mpg and performance. And maybe raise car value for selling in the future? I know I would get more out of a rwd car, but I use the awd 5m out of the year. Right now my 40yr old Saab makes a joke of the bmw in pretty much every department, and i find myself choosing it over the Daily bmw often, and I feel a manual would change that a bit.
What are your guys thoughts?

View attachment 1008624 View attachment 1008625

Is that a peanut butter brown interior on a wagon 😍

 

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Thanks

So I can be 99% sure that any 6spd ZF gearbox that fits M54Bxx in E83 X3 will suit E46 330xi as well

I swapped an x3 6speed into my 04 330xi works great 👍

 

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It’s my understanding the X3 version and 330xi version are interchangeable, except for the shifter arm and the rod joint. I have a transmission from an X3 that may find its way into my next project, so I may find out for myself.

My 6speed swap for my 04 330xi came from an x3 👍