E36 Axle Compatibility

[xMatthew]

I've been searching for a long time about this and I can't find a definite answer. I have also looked on real oem for part numbers but everything is different. I'm wondering what non-m e36 axles are compatible with each other? So would 318 axles fit in a 325? And would 318ti axles fit in a 325?

I know 325 and 328 axles differ in diameter but are a direct swap. And that m3 axles won't swap unless you change your diff output flanges. But besides that I'm lost. Any help would be appreciated.

[Mikestokman]

318, 325, and 328 all share the hub side spline, but the flanges on the diff are different. 325 and 328 are the same, 318 is much smaller. So if you're putting a medium case diff in your car, you'll need 325 or 328 axles. Driveshaft bolt patten is the same for all non m cars aswell (4 bolt flange)

[xMatthew]

Thank you for the fast reply

[sundernaix]

Will 96 m3 axles fit into a 97 328i diff and hub?

[protomor]

No.

[Piner]

E36 M3 Axles have bigger CV joints and don't clear non-M trailing arms. They also use a bigger pattern diff side stub axle so you need those to bolt the axles up to the diff.

[sundernaix]

So if i put after market trailing arms on with the diff to the m3 i should be good?

[Press22]

who makes aftermarket trailing arms? or do you mean like URO or something

[sundernaix]

I belive SPC makes one for a true coilover setup in the rear as well as wisefab and revshift. Dont quote me i could be misinformed.

[Press22]

I don't think SPC has one. Wisefab's looks to be for rally. anyway we don't know depends on clearance

[sundernaix]

Thanks for the help ill keep you updated on my progress.

[Erock890]

318, 325, and 328 all share the hub side spline, but the flanges on the diff are different. 325 and 328 are the same, 318 is much smaller. So if you're putting a medium case diff in your car, you'll need 325 or 328 axles. Driveshaft bolt patten is the same for all non m cars aswell (4 bolt flange)

So then would you put the e36 325i axles or e30? I have a 96 318ti with a 3.73 lsd but I’m not sure what axles to get and what to make sure the hub side splines are the same

[E36M3LX]

So then would you put the e36 325i axles or e30? I have a 96 318ti with a 3.73 lsd but I’m not sure what axles to get and what to make sure the hub side splines are the same

3.73lsd from an e30 in your ti? medium case right? then you need 6 cyl e30 axles

[protomor]

318ti axles are specific to the E36 318. E30 axles are too short.