engine and drivetrain differential output flanges

[echappe]

I have a later model differential (cooling fins on rear cover). that I'm using to replace earlier one with lots of wear. the later has 8mm threaded holes and my earler one has smooth holes for 8mm capscrews with locknuts. Are the output flanges interchangeable,I.E can I use the earlier drive flanges with the later diff as I'd like to use the locknuts

[JohnH]

You can just use the old 60mm cap screws with the later flange.I dont think that there is enough space to use the lock nuts however. If you want they can be cut down to 55mm. Class 12.9 55mm cap screws are cheap, less than a dollar each.

 

Later BMWs dont use lock nuts.

 

Edited November 23, 2015 by JohnH

[echappe]

Problem is that this (the one I plan on using) diff sat outside for a long time and the threaded holes in the flanges are pretty corroded, have been working on them with a tap but it is slow going.

[JohnH]

Okay, now I understand why you want to do it, but unfortunately I dont know whether you can swap the flanges over. There are others on here who will know the answer.

 

It should only take you a few minutes to clean up the threads. Are you sure you are using a tap with the correct thread pitch?

[echappe]

tapping the threads with 8mm 1.25 which is correct size but slow, just have to take my time!