I'm thinking of opening up the gearbox to fix a problem with the selector mechanism on my 98 E36 318ism. The gear stick left and right movement to reverse and 5th is very stiff and sticky. The forward/backwards movement of the stick is perfect, as is the left right movement between 1st, 2nd and 3rd, 4th.

I already have the box out to do a clutch change.

TIS shows that I need to pull the bellhousing/front section of the gearbox casing from the rear section.

Does anyone have any experience with this? Assuming I get the casing off, are needle rollers and other bits going to fall out of everything? Im I getting myself in too deep and should take it to a gearbox mechanic?

Thanks Guys
Myles