1.9 trailing arms and axles on 2.5, 2.8, 3.0 = ///M wheel fitment?

[RacerXTreme7]

As the title says, will the rear trailing arms and axles make any 6 cylinder Z3 be able to run ///M rear wheel offsets?

I've been searching for wrecked and parted Z3M rear ends but they are not only scarce but extremely expensive! I realize the Z3M has better M3 brakes, but I've found a few different options for the standard Z, 318i, E30 for brake options.

Any downsides to this swap? I can't imagine the axles being much weaker, especially since I don't plan on anything more than 300RWHP. I know they lack a small cross brace but I'd add that and beef up the sway mount area anyways.

[Vintage42]

I heard the 1.9 differential and axles are different than the 6-cylinders' -- smaller and weaker. I wonder if 1.9 axles will fit in a 6-cyl differential. And what 300 wheel HP would do to axles designed for 138 engine HP.

[RacerXTreme7]

I was hoping the axles would fit the 3.0 diff I have.

Just from appearances (pictures), the axles appear to be the same thickness as the earlier 2.5, 2.8 axles. I have noticed that my 3.0 axles appear much larger / thicker in diameter than the earlier 2.5, 2.8 that I just mentioned. I imagine that they are similar or the same as E30 and 318ti axles. I'm sure if I dig more I'll find what guys with those cars are pushing power up too before they start to be an issue.

[BimmerBreaker]

Pretty sure youll need to use 1.9 axles, should fit though. Shorter trailing arm needs a shorter axle

Is this swap only for wheel fitment? I know Id be happier with 6 cyl axles in my 6 cyl Z3... Not sure if M axles will fit 1.9 arms, they arent identical in size

[RacerXTreme7]

Pretty sure youll need to use 1.9 axles, should fit though. Shorter trailing arm needs a shorter axle

Ya, I figured I'd need the axles too.

Is this swap only for wheel fitment?

Yes

I know Id be happier with 6 cyl axles in my 6 cyl Z3...

Assuming there is a power limitation between the two

Not sure if M axles will fit 1.9 arms, they arent identical in size

Doubtful

[deni2s]

Need trailing arms, axles, and if I remember correctly the things between axles and diffs (not sure about the name in english). One of my cars had one trailing arm/axle from 4 cyl zed, now installed the proper parts when I found the owner of 4cyl zed with opposite situation . In one year of driving 2.8 with 4 cyl axle never experienced issues, so I assume it is strong enough.

[rf900rkw]

Output flanges.


Spend some time on realoem. They do give dimensions on some of the parts.