Installing the 320i Diff

[SeanH]

So I get the new diff (ebay purchase) all shined up. Put on the cover from the old diff, installed the Ireland bushings and went to put it in the car and found that things are not lining up easily.

Namely, when I have the bushings bolted to the body, the bolts don't line up with the subframe and vica versa. It's about a quarter inch off. I know the subframe moves a bit, maybe that's my problem.

Any advice on this? Do I just need to use a big screwdriver and make it work?

Thanks!

[Tiger75]

you have to use the rear diff cover off a 2002 and bolt it on the 320 diff.

Iat least that what I remember that I had to do.

[TobyB]

1/4"??? It's all but bolted in!

Get a jack and some pry bars! Those things move around quite a bit...

I install the diff bolts to the subframe loosely, then work on the back mount.

It's a pain. I have a couple of bolts with points ground on them

just for that purpose. A small mirror on a stick is invaluable, too.

t

[Guest]

I had the same problem with mine, nearly remove the two bolts holding the front most part of the subframe on near the outside and in front of the rear wheels, then everything should line up in back.