Wavetrac BMW Differential and Gearing Upgrades for BMW 1 Series

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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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Limited Slip Differential - E46
For Automatic Transmission for years 2008+
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
Wavetrac - Corporate Logo
T#:383304
Part#: 30309175WKWVT
Ships on Oct 6, 2026
$ 1,245.99 USD
Free Shipping
$ 1,245.99 USD
Free Shipping

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.

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Limited Slip Differential
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
Wavetrac - Corporate Logo
T#:363876
Part#: 30309172WKWVT
Ships in 2 Business Days
$ 1,245.99 USD
Free Shipping
$ 1,245.99 USD
Free Shipping
Wavetrac® Torque Biasing Differential Innovative: Patented Wavetrac® design automatically improves grip in low traction conditions. This feature is truly innovative and unlike any other torque biasing differential design. Superior Materials: High-strength 9310 steel gears are used in case-hardened billet or forged steel bodies. ARP® fasteners are used throughout the differential. Maintenance Free: As supplied new, the Wavetrac® differential will perform a lifetime of service without maintenance or rebuilds. Additional technical information on the Wavetrac® Differential can be found at the following link: http://www.wavetrac.net/technical.htm For vehicles with a welded ring gear: This differential requires the welded ring gear from your stock differential to be removed, drilled, and installed at a professional machine shop. Bolt Kit ES4368731Wavetrac® Torque Biasing Differential Innovative: Patented Wavetrac® design automatically improves grip in low traction conditions. This feature is truly innovative and unlike any other torque biasing differential design. Superior Materials: High-strength 9310 steel gears are used in case-hardened billet or forged steel bodies. ARP® fasteners are used throughout the differential. Maintenance Free: As supplied new, the Wavetrac® differential will perform a lifetime of service without maintenance or rebuilds. Additional technical information on the Wavetrac® Differential can be found at the following link: http://www.wavetrac.net/technical.htm For vehicles with a welded ring gear: This differential requires the welded ring gear from your stock differential to be removed, drilled, and installed at a professional machine shop. Bolt Kit T#1377522 is required to install the ring gear to the new differential. No technical drawings or instructions are provided, please check with your machine shop before purchasing this item and/or the required hardware kit! 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 incorrect installation.
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