BMW differential types
There are a wide variety of differentials and mostly the components are not interchangeable between generations. Generally early differentials are fitted with taper bearings, and most post 2006 units are fitted with ball bearings. Both can use 75W140 oil, though, ball bearings are supposed to use the thinner 75W90 for increased fuel economy. Most bearings are not interchangeable between pre and post 2006. Diff Lab stocks all bearings prior to F-series and can service all of these differentials, and perform factory blueprinting.
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215LW Spline Type - Found in 135i, 235i, 335i etc |
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215LW 3-bolt Type - Found in early 135i and 335i - Fitted to manual 135i before 2008 - Uses all ball bearings - No side covers - Symmetrical output shafts - Often has a welded ring gear - Generally all open differentials - Requires cutting and drilling for LSD fitment |
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210mm / 215mm - Found in E36 M3 3.2L, E39 M5 and E46 M3 - Uses all taper bearings |
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188K - Found in E39, E53 and E46 6cyl vehicles - Uses all taper bearings |
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168LW - Found in E82, E87, E90 116i, 118i, 120i, 318i, 320i etc - Uses all ball bearings |
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188mm - Found in E28, E30, E32, E34, E36 - Uses all taper bearings |
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168mm - Found in E30 and E36 319i and 320i - Uses all taper bearings |
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168mm - Found in E21 and 2002 - Uses all taper bearings |