BMW Differential and Gearing Upgrades for BMW 1 Series E82 (2008-2013)

Differential bushings are responsible for keeping the differential in solid alignment while dampening drivetrain vibration. While OE rubber bushings are fine when they are new from the factory, aged and worn out rubber bushings create a multitude of issues that can range from annoying to dangerous. As a factory bushing ages, it begins to harden and become brittle. When this happens the bushing will actually shrink and allow for movement at the differential mounting point. At this point, the differential is free to shift under load causing a noticeable clunking noise under acceleration and deceleration and massively increasing the stress on the driveshaft and axles. Manual transmissions suffer the worst from this as it can make shifting difficult since the differential will shift when the clutch is engaged and disengaged.

By replacing these bushings with full polyurethane, the movement is eliminated since the mounting point is supported by a much stiffer material that will not harden or shrink over time. This means less stress on the driveshaft and axles and greater longevity of supporting components. 

Powerflex street bushings are ideal for street driven vehicles and those that see occasional autocross or track time. Need bushings for a dedicated track car? Powerflex Black Series bushings are the ultimate in track and race bushings. Featuring 95A durometer polyurethane, Black Series bushings are 25% stiffer than street bushings. Engineered to perform, Powerflex performance polyurethane control arm bushings offer a supreme level of control, while still providing enough comfort for the street, with advanced polyurethane that reduces NVH that often accompanies lesser bushings. Expect improved steering feel, turn in, more responsive handling and overall improved chassis composure with Powerflex performance polyurethane control arm bushings.

Poweflex is a leading manufacturer of aftermarket suspension bushings. Using state of the art design and manufacturing, all replacement bushings are engineered to out-perform and out-last the ones that came in the car. Each line of bushings is meticulously tested and then re-tested to ensure perfect fitment and enduring quality through the life of the vehicle. A full lifetime warranty backs every one of their products and demonstrates the level of confidence and commitment Powerflex has to their customers. 

Convert your open differential to a locked differential without the costly expense of an LSD replacement.

Get your car ready for aggressive track driving or drifting without purchasing or replacing your differential. The weld-in plates strengthen your diff and allow both wheels to engage simultaneously giving you a more predictable and capable track car.

An open differential allows the wheels to spin at different speeds and sends power to the wheel with the least amount of traction. This may be a good feature for your regular everyday driver but limits you on the track. The weld-in plates simulate a driving experience similar to a limited-slip differential allowing you to put power to both wheels in a low traction area or initiate drifts.

Features and benefits:

Added strength to your differential gears
Converts from open differential
Fabricated to fit in the spider gears for an easier weld and increased confidence
Made from 7 gauge mild steel, formed to fit

The Wavetrac® Torque Biasing Differential introduces an innovative solution for BMW enthusiasts. With its patented design, the Wavetrac® differential automatically enhances grip in low-traction conditions, setting it apart from conventional torque biasing differential designs.

Crafted with precision, the Wavetrac® differential features high-strength 9310 steel gears encased in case-hardened billet or forged steel bodies. ARP® fasteners are utilized throughout the differential, ensuring robustness and exceptional performance.

One of the defining features of the Wavetrac® differential is its maintenance-free design. Fresh from the factory, it's engineered to deliver a lifetime of service without the need for regular maintenance or rebuilds. To bolster the commitment to durability, all Wavetrac® differentials come with a transferable limited lifetime warranty.

For those seeking additional technical insights, comprehensive information on the Wavetrac® Differential can be found at this link: Wavetrac Technical Information.

It's important to note that the Wavetrac® differential is compatible with gear ratios of 3.15 and higher.

Important Note for Bolt Kits:

For vehicles equipped with a welded ring gear, the installation of this differential necessitates the removal, drilling, and installation of the welded ring gear from your stock differential. A Bolt Kit ES4368731 is an essential component for installing the ring gear onto the new differential. We strongly recommend consulting with a professional machine shop before purchasing this item and the necessary hardware kit. Please be aware that no technical drawings or instructions are provided, underscoring the importance of verifying compatibility and ensuring correct installation with your chosen machine shop.

It's crucial to be aware that no refunds or replacements will be offered if the differential has been installed or machined, or in the event of incorrect ring gear installation or differential failure due to improper installation.

SuperPro Differential Bushings for BMW

Upgrade your BMW's driveline with SuperPro differential bushings to enhance road feel and reduce driveline slop. While stock bushings excel at insulating the cabin from vibrations, they often lack in improving road feedback. SuperPro's differential bushings are engineered to better locate your driveline, providing a more connected driving experience and improved power delivery to the road surface. With over 40 years of experience in manufacturing suspension components and bushings, SuperPro leads the industry in polyurethane technology. These bushings are not just replicas of stock ones; they are meticulously developed to leverage the unique properties of SuperPro's polyurethane blend, ensuring top-notch performance. Expect consistent quality, precise fitment, and minimal increase in noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) with SuperPro differential bushings.

• Enhances road feel and connection to the driving experience
• Reduces driveline slop for improved power delivery
• Superior polyurethane technology for optimal performance
• Meticulously developed and extensively tested for quality assurance
• Minimal increase in noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH)