1987 535is auto trans problem.

Ok so I just bought this car from a guy down the street and it has been sitting for 3-5 years. I drive it everyday and it is just shifting outrageously. It likes to shift down and put itself in like a netruel gear and rev up, then I finds a gear a slams into it turning my tranny light on. Then some times when I exit off the freeway it likes to start shaking as if all the tires are flat. The car seems to run fine but sometimes it will shut off randomly when in gear. Now I've heard abt these impulse senders being a problem but also abt tps and the angel sensor. Now does anyone know where I can start? I've already changed the tranny fluid an put additives into it, but it doesn't seem to fix this issue.

Oh and here is a photo of it as well I spent a $1000 on it.

Identify specifically which trans version you have and do a search. Start by buying a Bentley manual and diagnosing the engine performance. Engine vacuum leaks, idle problems, electrical issues, etc. all affect the transmission's operation. Car's that sit for long periods without operating can develop lots of little problems that require alot of time and effort in diagnosing and correcting. Formulate a plan.

Well my tach don't work could this be part of the issue?

Originally Posted by Bowensamuel

Well my tach don't work could this be part of the issue?

Could be SI board related. Check the number 5 and 6 fuses. Research E28 SI boards on www.mye28.com and you'll find out lots of info. Electrical deterioration is probably this car's biggest enemy.

Thanks man u helped alot.

Did you replace the filter when you change the fluid? You probably have the 4HP-22EH tranny. As catso said get a Bentley as this is the maintenance bible for these cars. When I got my car almost nothing on the gauge cluster worked. I got a replacement board and that fixed all the issues. You seem to have a lot of electrical issues typical to car that has been sitting for a while. I would start by removing all fuses, cleaning all the tabs and re-installing new fuses. Also, clean all battery connections and the engine ground points (there are several).