BMW Differential and Gearing Upgrades

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. 

Engineered to perform, Powerflex performance polyurethane differential 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 acceleration response, more direct shifting feel and overall improved drivetrain composure with Powerflex performance polyurethane 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. 

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 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 acceleration response, more direct shifting feel and overall improved drivetrain composure with Powerflex performance polyurethane 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. 

BMW G8X Rear Diff Front Mounting Bushing (Street) is a high-performance upgrade designed to enhance the stability and control of the BMW G8X's rear differential. This bushing features a robust construction combining CNC-machined aluminum and high-quality polyurethane to provide superior drivetrain support and minimize deflection.

• Improved Drivetrain Stability: Reduces drivetrain deflection for better handling and control.
• Enhanced Launch Performance: Minimizes wheel-hop during aggressive starts and hard launches.
• Durable Construction: Made from black anodized 2011-T6 aluminum and high-strength polyurethane.
• Choice of Hardness: Available in signature purple 80A durometer or black 95A durometer polyurethane to suit different driving needs.
• Direct Replacement: Designed as a full bushing replacement for easy installation and improved performance.

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. 

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 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 acceleration response, more direct shifting feel and overall improved drivetrain composure with Powerflex performance polyurethane 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. 

E36 188mm Reinforced Billet Aluminum Differential Cover

Engineered from high-quality 6061 billet aluminum, this differential cover is built for resilience and designed for performance. Hard-coat anodized for a sleek finish and superior corrosion resistance, it not only looks great but also brings functional improvements in strength and cooling. Turner Motorsport has added reinforced mounting ears to withstand the toughest driving conditions—preventing the breakages common with OEM covers.

This cover doesn’t just endure—it performs. The cover features strategically placed external fins on the rear face, base, and mounting ears to efficiently dissipate heat, keeping temperatures stable for optimal fluid longevity and differential health. Inside, the design promotes consistent oiling of the ring gear, reducing wear by ensuring critical cooling and lubrication. An integrated baffle keeps pressure stable and minimizes cavitation.

Compatibility is at the core of the design: it’s compatible with OEM gaskets or RTV, and it retains the factory bushing geometry for easy integration with rubber, poly, and even solid mounts. The upgraded -6AN drain and fill plugs allow expansion for an external oil cooler, ideal for high-performance applications. Plus, a 1/8 NPT port allows for real-time monitoring of differential fluid temperatures.

Key Benefits:

Reinforced mounting ears for robust support—no more broken ears during aggressive driving or track days Optimized cooling with fins on rear face, base, and mounting ears Removable air duct to direct airflow across fins for maximum temperature control Improved internal design to maintain consistent lubrication on the ring gear -6AN ports for external cooler compatibility, increasing fluid capacity and extending change intervals 1/8 NPT port for temperature sensor integration to monitor fluid heat Design Highlights:

Precision-milled from 6061 billet aluminum with a T6 hard-coat anodized finish Fits E36 medium case 188mm differentials Compatible with differential coolers (-6AN) and temperature sensors (1/8 NPT) Works with OEM speed sensor, OEM gasket, and oversized sway bars Designed for easy maintenance with a removable air duct and accessible drain/fill plug ECS Tuning E36 Polyurethane Transmission Mount Set – Street

The ECS Polyurethane Transmission Mounts in this kit provide a solid connection between transmission and chassis, enhancing stability and reducing unwanted drivetrain movement. Built for durability, these mounts feature polyurethane with a 70A durometer for a perfect balance of comfort and performance. Compared to OEM rubber mounts, polyurethane provides less deflection, better power transfer, and much longer life under stress.

Polyurethane’s natural resistance to water, oil, and wear ensures these mounts maintain shape and performance even under heavy compression, making them ideal for spirited driving and track use. The mounts include a mechanical interlock for secure, reliable performance—even under high-torque, forced-induction scenarios. For those seeking a more aggressive setup, ECS also offers an 80A durometer Race mount.

Key Features:

Reduces transmission movement, minimizing mis-shifts and over-revs High-quality polyurethane bonded to 304 Stainless Steel Engaging driving experience with enhanced feedback and control Available in Street (70A) and Race (80A) applications for tailored performance Enjoy smoother shifts, firmer power delivery, and a more engaging drive with the ECS Polyurethane Transmission Mounts.