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3-Series (E36)Chat relating to the BMW 3-Series from 1992-1999. Autodoodad
Specific models include: BMW 316i, BMW 318i, BMW 318iS/ti, BMW 320, BMW 323, BMW 320, BMW 324, BMW 325, BMW 328.
I'm looking at swapping my diff to a LSD. I have a 318i, and I've heard that you can swap in a LSD from a 325i (I believe). If thats the diff that I heard about, at 70 mph in 5th I'd be at 4,200 rpms. Has anyone done this swap? or swapped for a different diff? or does any one know the ratios for the different E36 diffs or other diffs that can be swapped in? Lots of questions I know, but this should be an excelent thing, and really help off the line acceleration, traction but lower top speed (which is fine with me).
You cannot swap a 325 diff in a 318 without also changing the driveshaft. I also was interested in a swap, until I leanred the 325/328 diffs were designed differently than the 4cyl engines' diffs. The lengths are different.
__________________ <span style='color:gray'><span style='font-family:Courier'>1995 e36 3 Series RIP
1999 e46 3 Series BURN IN HELL
2000 MR-S Roadster= Current</span></span>
the only diff that would make a difference and would be easy and cheaper is the diff from an auto. Say goodbye to your top speed, but it would make a large impact on acceleration. I wanted a 3.91 for the longest time, but found out the 4.44 was the only one that would work, and those revs are just too high for me.
__________________ <span style='color:gray'><span style='font-family:Courier'>1995 e36 3 Series RIP
1999 e46 3 Series BURN IN HELL
2000 MR-S Roadster= Current</span></span>
Also does the whole drive shaft have to be changed or just the rear? I'm still looking into this as a possibility because I'm getting it part and installed in trade for an engine (5sfe from a 92 celica), so as long as the parts would be less than $500 it should be a go.
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