[Phantom28]

Hi All,

So I am quite new to this forum.

Recently I purchased an E90 320i (2007) 6 speed manual with 45,000 miles on the clock.

From searching on the internet and in this forum it looks like it is a known (common?) issue.

Now, of course I am looking to solve this problem, however in my country I cannot find a manual 320i differential, however I have found one from a 320d model. In this respect I have a couple of questions:

1. Can I replace the differential from a diesel to a petrol and would this adversely affect performance?
2. Are there any other models (thinking of an E46 and 1 series) which diff could fit in mine?
3.Are the diff re-build kits out there reliable and good?

Apologies for the long post

Thank you in advance

[Phil325i]

Can't comment on the reliabilty of repair kits, but if you have serious whine, it's almost certainly due to failing pinion bearings. These were changed by BMW for the E9X range to ball races. You need to find someone who can fit tapered roller bearings instead.

[tlow98]

Just buy a used one for a couple hundred froma. Junk yard and roll on

[juld0zer]

Isn't the pinion flange different on the 320d?

The 320i uses a standard universal joint but the 320d uses a triangle flange and guibo

[Phantom28]

Thank you all for your help

The problem I am having is that in my country this particular model is quite rare and I am having a hard time finding a second hand differential. Phil325i do you know of any kits with tapered roller bearings?

Once again, your input is highly appreciated

[Phil325i]

I think they're specials. You could try Birds:

http://www.birdsauto.com/

I believe they get tapered sets made up for them to be fitted with Quaife diffs.