On my first attempt I got to the point where I had removed the lever that connects to the selector shaft. Next step was going to be insert the BMW tool onto the selector shaft and wind into the seal. However struck a problem.

The issue is the gear selector diameter and the BMW tool which fits on the shaft is very very tight and won,t slide on. As I didn't,t want to force anything and needed the car for the next day I put it back the way it was.

My current thinking of the issue of the where the selector rod is exposed to the road elements it has somehow pick up dirt/whatever....maybe a good clean of the exposed shaft will help.

Anyway will have another go this weekend. This time with the front drive shaft removed so can get a view of why it won't slide on. Will also do in the morning when the shaft has not warmed up from use during the day.

Will update when done with pic