e39 diff question

[motuman]

Can anyone confirm the final drive ratio on a 2003 540i/6, with m-sport package?

Is it 2.81 or 3.15?

This is open diff, not LSD, correct?

Is there a LSD diff from another BMW model that will fit an '03 e39? (For example I have an e34 540 M-Sport, and you can fit a 3.15 LSD from an e32 750).

[bubba966]

Got a last 7 for it? Looking up regular '03 model 540i/6's on realoem is showing them to have a 2.81. Do think it's open as I believe the only E39 that had an LSD from the factory was the M5 which has a 3.15 LSD in it. I don't know my E39's that well though. Couldn't tell you what other diffs might fit.

[motuman]

Got a last 7 for it? Looking up regular '03 model 540i/6's on realoem is showing them to have a 2.81. Do think it's open as I believe the only E39 that had an LSD from the factory was the M5 which has a 3.15 LSD in it. I don't know my E39's that well though. Couldn't tell you what other diffs might fit.

Hey thanks..

last 7 of the VIN are GF71980

[SnakeyesTx]

Hey thanks..

last 7 of the VIN are GF71980

By your last 7, the replacement part comes up as a 2.81
You could always swap in an M5 diff I'd imagine. It's a shame
these aren't as common as Dana axles and have a huge aftermarket
R&P selection available :/