The "shiny" place you describe sounds like the neutral start switch. The hole that you describe is there to align the switch when it's replaced or serviced. If it's leaking there, it probably coming out around the selector shaft.

Sorry Joel, I meant this post for Cham. The above is meant for you. re the shiny place.
------------------
Jeff L
1987 300e
1989 300e
1987 BMW 325

[This message has been edited by jeffsr (edited 04-29-2000).]

[This message has been edited by jeffsr (edited 04-29-2000).]