Powerflex BMW Differential and Gearing Upgrades for BMW Z3 (1996-2002)

Clear BMW chassis

Please ensure your correct model is selected

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.
Sort By:

Powerflex Polyurethane Rear Differential Bushing - E30 E36 318ti Z3 ...
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
Powerflex - Corporate Logo
T#:376526
Part#: PFR5-300
In Stock
$ 48.99 USD
Free Shipping on orders $49 and up

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. 

Show More Show Less
Powerflex BMW Z3 - E30 3 Series - 318Ti Rear Diff Bushing
affirm Starting At 0% APR - Subject To Eligibility. See Lending Terms
Powerflex - Corporate Logo
T#:33946923
Part#: PFR5-300H
Ships in 2 Business Days
$ 48.99 USD
Free Shipping on orders $49 and up

The Powerflex Rear Diff Bushing for BMW Z3, E30 3 Series, and 318Ti is a high-performance replacement for the factory rubber bushings in the rear differential. This upgrade is ideal for improving handling, power delivery, and drivetrain stability, especially on aging vehicles where the original bushings may have deteriorated.

Key Features:

  1. Polyurethane Construction: Unlike the OEM rubber bushings, Powerflex bushings are made from durable polyurethane, which resists wear from exposure to heat, oil, and road debris. This increases the longevity of the bushing and ensures consistent performance over time.

  2. Handling Improvements: The stiffer polyurethane material significantly reduces the flex and movement of the differential during acceleration, braking, and cornering. This helps improve the overall stability and precision of the vehicle’s rear-end, enhancing cornering performance and delivering better power transfer to the wheels.

  3. Versions for Different Needs:

    • Road Series: Designed for daily driving, these bushings offer an excellent balance of performance and comfort, maintaining near-factory levels of ride quality while improving rear differential control.
    • Black Series: These bushings are made from a much stiffer polyurethane (95A durometer) and are designed for motorsport or track applications. They provide maximum control and minimal flex, at the expense of an increase in NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness).
  4. Direct Fitment: These bushings are designed as direct replacements for the stock bushings, making installation relatively straightforward. This is especially useful for older models like the E30 and Z3, where original bushings may have degraded or cracked, causing clunking noises and excessive differential movement.

  5. Performance Gains: With reduced differential movement, drivers can expect sharper throttle response, improved traction under load, and better cornering dynamics, making it a perfect upgrade for those who want to refresh and enhance the performance of their BMW's rear suspension.

Application:

  • BMW Z3
  • BMW E30 3 Series
  • BMW E36 318Ti (Compact)

This Powerflex rear diff bushing upgrade is ideal for anyone looking to improve the handling characteristics of their BMW while adding durability and reliability to the drivetrain setup.

Show More Show Less