Rear Sub-Frame & Diff. :
The rear differential & sub-frame from the donor car were in great shape, as was the sub-frame, so I decided to swap the whole thing over, also rear diff.ratio was the proper ratio for the manual, at (2,93), but I swapped in a 3.15 LSD, you can also go with a (3.15) or (3,23) limited slip from the ///M3.
I ended up cleaning it up, painting it, & installing new sub-frame bushings. (Power Flex) BimmerZone.com
note: the rear CV axles for the manual are larger in diameter than Automatic's CV axles!
I followed these links to complete this portion of the swap:
http://bmw.monkeysuncle.net/TechProcedures/e36/Suspension/e36_subframe_reinforcement.htm
http://www.bimmerdiy.com/diy/e36diffswap/
Rear Sub-frame Removal:
Note: If you are going to do the rear diff. & sub frame bushings at the same
time, leave the differential mounted in the sub-frame with your floor jack under
the bottom center of the frame. Then remove the 2 bushing "nuts" & 2 bushing
bolts, along with 6 trailing arm mounting bolts! Leaving the diff. in allows for better
weight distribution when lowing the sub-frame!
time, leave the differential mounted in the sub-frame with your floor jack under
the bottom center of the frame. Then remove the 2 bushing "nuts" & 2 bushing
bolts, along with 6 trailing arm mounting bolts! Leaving the diff. in allows for better
weight distribution when lowing the sub-frame!