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Looking into engine/trans swapping my 530i with the Drivetrain of a 540i does anyone know if the diff of a 540i fits in a 530i housing?
Member
No, but the whole diff will bolt into the 530 subframe.
Member
Sweet thanks for the information now to just find all the parts.Originally Posted by mentaleeill
Member
Gonna need the 540 driveshaft and axles as well.
Member
Maybe also the front swaybar, steering, exhaust? Sometimes it’s easier to just buy a donor car when doing a major swap.
Member
Yeah, I completely missed the drivetrain part. The 540 uses a different front subframe, steering system, etc.
Member
Why would I need the steering and I'll be getting an after market exhaust for it. I guess I could see the front sway bar. I know it has different steering but I feel like its not making that much of a difference. Although this is going to be the first major swap I've attempted working with my dad though and hes done it on mustangs when he was my age. So if there's something I'm missing about the steering system being essential please educate me on why.
Member
540 uses a steering box, vs the 530 being a rack. If going completely custom you may get it to work. Not worth the effort in my opinion.
Member
Seems like it would be easier to not change it. I'll probably pick up a donor car and see if I can get away with not changing it. Can always just yoink it off some donor car anyway.
Member
Sure, it would be easier not to change it. But you may find you have to. BMW probably had the same idea as you. If you have the donor car for the drivetrain and the front suspension, this will be much easier.
As for the exhaust, your inline 6 comes off one side of the motor while the V8 comes off both sides.
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