Rear differential part numbers

[Jamie25]

I'm researching fitting an Lsd to my M54, 2003 E85.
I'm considering a blackline one from Matt Lewis Racing as I can't really afford other options. Their website and an exchange of emails suggests the one they would supply me with is for a 188L diff.
I'm under the impression that my car has a 188k diff.
Real OEM shows a part number of 33107514129 for my car.
The sticker on the diff reads as follows ;
8903032114770009
7514128/E2637R.3.07
I believe this gives a part number (33107514128?) one less than Real OEM suggests.

Sorry for the long winded post, but I've two thoughts.
Which type of 188 diff do I have?
Is the part number suggested on Real OEM just an updated version of my actual part number, being only one number out?

 

[Vanne]

Just be sure it's a 188 diff and not a 168, I'd be starting with that. Guess work gets expensive.

 

[Jamie25]

I'm comfortable it's not a 168. But I don't really know the difference between the 188k and 188l. It might just be the finned back plate.

 

[WillyWilly]

I'm considering a blackline one from Matt Lewis Racing as I can't really afford other options. Their website and an exchange of emails suggests the one they would supply me with is for a 188L diff.

Hi Jamie , I am planning to buy a Matt Lewis Racing LSD.
Is it a good product? Would you buy it again?

 

[Jamie25]

Hi Jamie , I am planning to buy a Matt Lewis Racing LSD.
Is it a good product? Would you buy it again?

I'm afraid my research didn't get any further. I nearly bought this diff but in the end I couldn't be sure it was right. The idea kind of fizzled out with money and time being a little tight with a young family.

That said, if you do go for it if be interested to know how you get on and your thoughts on if it transforms the driving experience. I've a niggling thought I'll l do it eventually as there are no other cars out there that interest me for even twice the price.

Good luck in any event.

 

[Liam22]

I'm not 100% about this but I think the K refers to the output shaft style. K bolts onto the driveshafts. Earlier BMW diffs had the driveshaft splined end insert directly into the diff.

 

[WillyWilly]

it if be interested to know how you get on and your thoughts on if it transforms the driving experience.

In my opinion LSD is mandatory on a roadster . It really makes the difference in certain situations.
It helps to exits faster from tight turns.
Two years ago I was able to reach with my 1993 Miata the top on Bernina Pass in Swiss during a massive snow storm. I had 10 years old snow tires.
The LSD was crucial , my friends with open diff had to stop and use wheel chains.

 

[Jakg]

Instead of looking at the part number for the complete differential (or more specifically, complete unit inc housing), look at the category "Final drive, gasket set"

The gasket & rear cover of the differential unit have a description of the differential they are suitable for - i.e. for my Z4 it's "TYP 188K".

I got this info from RacingDiffs - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tedvr4gLYeM