E30 Zone

Hi,

My 325i has developed a noise from the rear, possibly wheel bearings, but more likely the diff.

I've got her booked in at my local garage on Tuesday for them to have a look.

My question is, does anyone have a spare diff, LSD or normal that they may be willing to sell if I need one?

I'm willing to travel!

Many thanks.

What sort of noise? Diff. failure is very unusual on an E30, (assuming it has oil in it), apart from developing a whine from the pinion shaft bearings.

Hi,

It's a mechanical whining noise. Doesn't really sound like a wheel bearing, more hopeful thinking!

There is a small drip from the diff that I noticed last week, the oil is clean. Maybe it's low on oil? Is there any way to check the oil level without putting her on ramps?

many thanks.

You check the oil level by removing the filler plug on the rear cover of the diff and ensuring the oil level is up to the bottom of the hole.
The whining sounds like it may be the pinion/input shaft bearings, but they will (normally) go on happily in this state for many thousands of miles.

S/H diffs are available,have brouse through the 'parts fo sale' section,or post up in the 'parts wanted' section.You will find the diff ratio stamped on a tag attached to the rear cover,close to the filler plug that Brian mentioned.The ratio will help others to help you find the correct diff,as there a number of different one's fitted!

Just had another look at the rear of the diff, all I can see is a small round BMW badge stamped into it. Where would the numbers be?

many thanks.

The numbers are on a small metal tag fixed under one of the bolts holding the cover on. It will certainly need polishing up to read the numbers.

Brianmoooore wrote:The numbers are on a small metal tag fixed under one of the bolts holding the cover on. It will certainly need polishing up to read the numbers.

Certainly will require some elbow grease!

Thanks again, will chip away at it tomorrow.