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Differential and Gearing Upgrades

BMW Differential and Gearing Upgrades for BMW 5 Series E28 (1982-1988)

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Upgrading various parts of the differential can have tremendous benefits in your car's performance. It's easy to forget that the differential is a source for making your car faster and handle better so it's often overlooked. The engine is not the only place to make the car faster. Our differential options vary from gearing upgrades to limited slip conversions. You can purchase the ring & pinion gear sets on their own (professional installation required) or have us build a diff around your own specifcations. The options are almost endless! Every custom-built diff is fully rebuilt with seals and bearings. We also design and supply bushing options to reduce driveline wind-up, finned differential covers for better cooling, and more!

Ratio Changes - Changing the differential gearing is one of the best and most-effective upgrades you can make on any BMW (old or new). By using a shorter (numerically higher) final drive ratio you are increasing your RPM relative to road speed - this puts you in a more powerful RPM range than before! Since you're in a 'meatier' part of the power band you're now putting down more power/torque to the ground. If you can trade outright top speed for faster acceleration at daily speeds then this is the perfect upgrade for you.

Limited Slip Upgrades - Sadly, many BMWs today are not equipped with a limited slip (posi-traction) differential. BMW has tried to compensate by using traction control that cuts power at the engine or applies the brakes to retard wheel spin (or a combination of both). But nothing beats the function and feel of a a true LSD which may be why BMW continues to use them in M cars. Our LSD upgrades can be done a number of different ways - a factory-type limited slip unit with either 2 or 3 clutch packs, helical type, OS Giken unit, or something truly custom. We can also vary ramp angles and setup to change the limited-slip behavior under acceleration, deceleration, and cornering. Need a custom diff? Call or e-mail to have a quote.

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ECS Magnetic Differential Oil Drain Plug - Most BMW & Mini Models...

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T#:366828

Part#: 009314ECS01A

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$ 38.34 USD

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You use a magnetic drain plug for your engine oil, right? Why not apply the same proactive thinking to the differential too? This is a direct replacement magnetic differential drain plug for your BMW. It will catch and retain fine and larger metal particles in your diff oil. If you're proactive in your diff oil servicing, you will catch a minor issue long before it becomes a headache. Diff drain plug includes one sealing o-ring. Direct replacement for Genuine BMW part number(s): 33117525064, 33110308370, 33110152626

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Genuine BMW Differential Axle Shaft Seal w/ Lock Ring - E46 M3, E9x M...

T#:360862

Part#: 33107510289

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9% off MSRP $ 26.14

$ 23.73 USD

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9% off MSRP $ 26.14

$ 23.73 USD

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Is your rear differential leaking from the axle seal ? Here is the sealing gasket for the output axle flange, includes locking snap ring.

Loctite 5970 Gasket/Sealing Compound - 50ml

T#:25772539

Part#: 5970

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$ 41.51 USD

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$ 41.51 USD

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This Loctite 5970 Sealant is recommended by BMW to be used to seal the rear differential cover and numerous engine oil pans. Also used for multiple MINI, Audi, and VW applications.

M24x1.5mm Magnetic Drain/Fill Plug - Each M44 M52 M54 S54 Engine ...

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T#:583896

Part#: 000920ECS01

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$ 24.59 USD

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Ensure the longevity of your BMW's drivetrain with ECS Tuning's Magnetic Plugs. These plugs are meticulously engineered in-house to provide a perfect fit and feature a permanent magnet attached to the plug body. The magnet effectively attracts and captures tiny abrasive and ferrous metal particles, preventing their circulation through lubrication systems. Metal particles can accumulate due to various conditions such as normal wear, machining operations, casting flaws, and stress usage, leading to excessive wear of vital components. ECS Tuning's Magnetic Plugs help alleviate this concern by trapping these particles, thus safeguarding the internal components of your drivetrain. With a convenient 17mm hex head design, these plugs eliminate the need for special tools required for OEM plugs.

Key Benefits:

Removes abrasive metal particles from drivetrain fluid
Prevents excessive wear to internal components
Meticulously engineered for a perfect fit
Features a permanent magnet for efficient particle capture
Convenient 17mm hex head design for easy installation

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Differential Input Shaft Seal - E82 E46 E9X E39 E60 Z4

T#:7924

Part#: 33121213949

In Stock

Sale - Save 5% $ 67.48

$ 64.11 USD

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Replace your leaking differential input seal with this Genuine BMW part. Whenever service is performed on the differential it is a good idea to check / replace any seals. This seal measures 50mm X 80mm X 9mm. We also recommend you replace the securing plate # 33121205138 at the same time.

This item fits the following BMWs:
2011 E82 BMW 1M Coupe
2001-2006 E46 BMW M3
2008-2011 E90 BMW M3 - Sedan
2008-2013 E92 BMW M3 - Coupe
2008-2013 E93 BMW M3 - Convertible
1988 E28 BMW M5
1991-1995 E34 BMW 540i M5
1999-2003 E39 BMW M5
2006-2010 E60 BMW i M5
2011+ F10 BMW M5
1987-1989 E24 BMW M6
2006-2010 E63 BMW M6
2012+ F12 BMW M6
2013+ F06 BMW M6 Gran Coupe
1988-1994 E32 BMW 740i 740il 750il
1990-1999 E31 BMW 840i 840ci 850i 850ci 850csi
2006-2008 E85 BMW Z4 M Roadster M Coupe

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Genuine BMW Differential Shim Set

T#:59557

Part#: 33139065734

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$ 84.00 USD

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$ 84.00 USD

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Genuine BMW Spacer Rings Set - 1,45Mm-1,69Mm
This item fits the following BMW Chassis:
E30 M3,E36 M3,E30,E34,E36

Permatex "Right Stuff" Gasket Maker

T#:361188

Part#: 29208

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$ 32.50 USD

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$ 32.50 USD

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Creates gaskets the same way as OEM car manufacturers

Condor Speed Shop Differential Stud Kit - 45mm - E30, E28, E36 318ti,...

T#:578193

Part#: DIFSTKT-1

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$ 32.00 USD

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$ 32.00 USD

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Condor Speed Shop took the hard work out of removing and reinstalling your differential! If you've ever taken out your diff, you know how much of a pain it is to get the bolt holes to line up during re-installation. They never seem to line up perfectly, and getting the bolts to go in can be time-consuming. Condor's diff studs are designed to make your life a little easier. The diff will line up and lift right into the holes every time. 38mm studs are used with OEM or regular subframe bushings. 45mm studs are used with the 12mm riser subframe bushings. You'll need to pull the driveshaft to drop the diff. Use thread locker during install. Recommended for street or race use. Kit includes: 4 Studs 4 Washers 4 Lock Nuts

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Condor Speed Shop Solid Differential Bushing - E30, E28, Z3 & 318...

T#:587122

Part#: DIFE30

Ships in 3 Business Days

$ 55.00 USD

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$ 55.00 USD

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Condor Speed Shop's E30 solid differential bushing is designed for the street and the track. They use UHMW in all of their suspension bushings because it is stiff, has almost zero deflection yet also absorbs some vibration. It will outlast other types of rubber or urethane bushings. With their solid diff bushing, you won't have to worry about any more rubbery flex in your diff during hard acceleration.

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Genuine BMW OEM Speedometer Sensor

T#:10802

Part#: 62161369906

Ships Jul 1, 2025

2% off MSRP $ 124.99

$ 121.99 USD

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$ 121.99 USD

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This Genuine BMW speedometer / pulse generator is mounted in the back of the differential and provides wheel speed information to the instrument cluster speedometer.

This item fits the following BMWs:
1984-1987 E30 BMW 318i 325e 325es 325i 325ic 325is
1982-1988 E28 BMW 524td 528e 533i 535i 535is M5
1983-6/1987 E24 BMW 633csi 635csi M6
1981-1987 E23 BMW 733i 735i

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Driveshaft Seal

T#:362306

Part#: 31507609535

In Stock

18% off MSRP $ 16.44

$ 13.54 USD

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$ 13.54 USD

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Differential Drain Plug with O-Ring - Most BMWs

T#:7923

Part#: 33117525064

In Stock

Sale - Save 3% $ 8.53

$ 8.27 USD

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This is the front or rear Genuine BMW differential fluid drain plug for many BMWs. This can also be the transfer case plug or automatic transmission plug on some BMWs.

+ Year & Model Applications

(click to expand)

This item fits the following BMWs:
1970-1976 2002 BMW 1600 2002 2002tii
2008+ E82 BMW 128i 135i 1M Coupe
1977-1983 E21 BMW 320i 323i
1984-1991 E30 BMW 318i 318is 318ic 325e 325es 325i 325ic 325is 325ix M3
1992-1998 E36 BMW 318i 318is 318ti 318ic 323is 323ic 325i 325is 325ic 328i 328is 328ic M3
1999-2005 E46 BMW 323i 323ci 325i 325ci 325xi 328i 328ci 330i 330ci 330xi M3
2006-2011 E90 BMW 325i 325xi 328i 328xi 328i xDrive 330i 330xi 335d 335i 335xi 335i xDrive M3 - Sedan
2006-2012 E91 BMW 325xi 328i 328xi 328i xDrive - Wagon
2007-2012 E92 BMW 328i 328xi 328i xDrive 335i 335is 335xi 335i xDrive M3 - Coupe
2007-2012 E93 BMW 328i 335i M3 - Convertible
1976-1981 E12 BMW 528i 530i
1982-1988 E28 BMW 524td 528e 533i 535i 535is M5
1989-1995 E34 BMW 525i 530i 535i 540i M5
1997-2003 E39 BMW 525i 528i 530i 540i M5
2004-2010 E60 BMW 525i 525xi 530i 530xi 528i 528xi 528i xDrive 535i 535xi 535i xDrive 545i 550i M5
2010+ F07 BMW 535i GT, 535i xDrive GT, 550i GT, 550i xDrive GT
2011+ F10 BMW 528i 528i xDrive 535i 535i xDrive 550i 550i xDrive M5
1982-1989 E24 BMW 633csi 635csi M6
2004-2010 E63 BMW 645ci 650i M6
2012+ F12 BMW 640i 650i
1981-1987 E23 BMW 733i 735i
1988-1994 E32 BMW 735i 735il 740i 740il 750il
1995-2001 E38 BMW 740i 740il 750il
2002-2008 E65 BMW 745i 745li 750i 750li 760i 760li
2009+ F01 BMW 740i 740li 750i 750li 750i xDrive 750li xDrive 760li
1990-1999 E31 BMW 840i 840ci 850i 850ci 850csi
2004-2010 E83 BMW X3 2.5i X3 3.0i X3 3.0si
2011+ F25 BMW X3 xDrive28i X3 xDrive35i
2000-2006 E53 BMW X5 3.0i X5 4.4i X5 4.6is X5 4.8is
2007-2013 E70 BMW X5 3.0si X5 4.8i X5 xDrive30i X5 xDrive35d X5 xDrive35i X5 xDrive48i X5M
2008+ E71 BMW X6 xDrive35i X6 xDrive50i X6M
1997-2002 Z3 BMW Z3 1.9 Z3 2.3 Z3 2.5i Z3 2.8 Z3 3.0i M Roadster M Coupe
2003-2008 E85 BMW Z4 2.5i Z4 3.0i Z4 3.0si Z4 M Roadster M Coupe
2009+ Z4 BMW Z4 sDrive30i Z4 sDrive35i Z4 sDrive35is
2000-2003 E52 BMW Z8 Roadster

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Victor Reinz Sealing O-Ring - E23, E24, E28, E30, E31, E32, E34, E36,...

T#:375022

Part#: 33111206166

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$ 1.99 USD

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$ 1.99 USD

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Used to seal the pulse generator in the differential case

Genuine BMW Differential Plug Gasket, 22x27 - 07119963355

T#:348476

Part#: 07119963355

In Stock

Sale - Save 5% $ 0.99

$ 0.94 USD

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$ 0.94 USD

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When servicing the rear axle and differential, it is always best to replace this sealing washer to prevent any potential leaks from forming.

Genuine BMW O-ring - 33111214144

T#:25199

Part#: 33111214144

In Stock

Sale - Save 5% $ 4.99

$ 4.74 USD

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Genuine BMW O-Ring - D=90Mm/3Mm
This item fits the following BMW Chassis:
E30 M3,E36 M3,E34 M5,E60 M5,E63 M6,E46 M3,E82 1M Coupe,E85 Z4M,E30,E34,E36,E38,E46,E63,E82,E85 Z4,E86 Z4,E90,E92,E93,F06,F10,F12,F13,F80 M3,F82 M4,F83

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SKF Seal - Differential Pinion Shaft (50 X 80 X 9 mm)

T#:588869

Part#: 33121213949

Ships Jul 2, 2025

$ 14.99 USD

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$ 14.99 USD

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Differential Cover Gasket - E30 E28 E24 E23

T#:1300

Part#: 33111210405

In Stock

$ 6.99 USD

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$ 6.99 USD

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This is the differential cover gasket / diff seal for E30 3 series, 1984-1991.

Rein Differential Drain Plug Gasket

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T#:19654

Part#: 07119963355

In Stock

$ 1.99 USD

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$ 1.99 USD

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GASKET RING for various sensors and seals.

Magnetic Differential Oil Drain Plug

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T#:38890943

Part#: HWU0065

In Stock

$ 15.99 USD

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$ 15.99 USD

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Febi Drain Plug Gasket

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T#:340702

Part#: 07119963355

In Stock

$ 2.99 USD

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$ 2.99 USD

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22x27 aluminum sealing ring

Genuine BMW Engine & Trans Suspension Hex Nut With Plate 22316760...

T#:7561

Part#: 22316760944

In Stock

Sale - Save 23% $ 2.99

$ 2.31 USD

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Sale - Save 23% $ 2.99

$ 2.31 USD

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Genuine BMW Hex Nut With Plate - M8
This item fits the following BMW Chassis:
E30 M3,E36 M3,E34 M5,E39 M5,E60 M5,E63 M6,E46 M3,E82 1M Coupe,E85 Z4M,E30,E34,E36,E38,E39,E46,E63,E65,E82,E85 Z4,E86 Z4,E89 Z4,E90,E92,E93,F22,F30,F31,F32,F33,F34,F36,F80 M3,F82 M4,F83

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Genuine BMW Lock Plate for Output Flange Nut - E12 E21 E24 E28 E30 E3...

T#:7582

Part#: 23221201330

Ships in 1-2 days

$ 7.99 USD

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$ 7.99 USD

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Genuine BMW Securing Plate -
This item fits the following BMW Chassis:
E30,E34

Genuine BMW Differential Dust Cover

T#:174741

Part#: 33137600693

Ships in 1-2 days

6% off MSRP $ 16.99

$ 15.99 USD

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6% off MSRP $ 16.99

$ 15.99 USD

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Genuine BMW Dustcover Plate.

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