Guys and Gals: Bradley Otto sent me this *very* interesting info; I thought you'd like to know, so I'm passin'it on(edited slightly):

Dear Samir,

I don't know if this will help but you can check the side of the transmission to see what it was filled with from the factory.

For 1992-87 bmw cars, inspect for color coded fluid identification label, usually affixed to the passenger side of the transmission bellhousing, to verify the fluid installed.

GREEN LABEL*..GLS(GEAR Lubricant Specal, get this from BMW dealer) RED LABEL*....AF(DEXRON-III Automatic Transmission Fluid, yes automatic) NO LABEL+ ....80W GL-4

• Transmissions filled with AF or GLS are fitted with 17mm external hex head drain and fill plugs

+ Transnissions that are filled with GL-4 are fitted with 17mm internal hex(allen) head drain and fill plugs.

I got the information from a publication that the company I represent puts out on Lubrication Recommendations (1996 edition) . Its published by Check Mart Publications, CA. It contains a complete Key to lubes symbols,( ie. GL- 5, MT-1, GLS, etc.) for all manufactures.

Sincerely,
Bradley Otto
b2otto2_at_1st.net

Samir Shah
Stamford, CT
gofast_at_ix.netcom.com