2.2 2002 z3 - LSD or not

[TomH84]

In the process of trying to service my diff, I've come across so much conflicting info (and probably some "opinion" too) about which zeds have an LSD fitted.

I've checked my VIN and there's no mention of the 25% Sperrdifferntial. The 2002 sales brochure also doesn't list it as an option.

Does that mean no LSD, so I'm safe to refill the diff with Castrol Syntrax Longlife 75W-90 (for non-LSD BMW diffs)??

Cheers!

Tom

[Southernboy]

....I'm sure someone will be along shortly with the link to the website where you can get all the original factory build specs for your car... Don't know why it isn't listed in the Z3 Knowledgebase as so many people ask about specifics like you have, and so much "maybe" stuff gets posted..... Hopefully someone will get it into the listing there....

[sirius-c]

He's mentioned that he's already checked his VIN but here's a link for others:

http://www.bmwarchive.org/vin/bmw-vin-decoder.html

[TomH84]

Cheers guys

So if it's not listed, then it's the TYPE 168 non-LSD diff then?

[Southernboy]

If you've used the link Steve supplied above, and entered your Vin No etc, and under "standard equipment" it is not listed, then you don't have an LSD.

[TomH84]

Great, as I thought. Good to know that the VIN info is complete!

Thanks again

[kkkrisss]

Cheers guys

So if it's not listed, then it's the TYPE 168 non-LSD diff then?

If your car is 2.2 then you should have the 188 type diff which requires slightly more oil than the 168 type.

[motco]

Mine is a 2.2 very late build and has a Torsen LSD. It is a 'Sport' model though if that's relevant.

[TomH84]

Yeah, the Sport has the LSD as standard. It wasn't even an option on the non-sport 2.2i according to my 2001/2002 final run brochure.

For info, I've found the below site useful for VIN/parts checking. Not least because it gives us info on fluid capacity specific to your vehicle. Helpful!

http://www.etk.cc/bmw/EN/vin/decoder/wb ... k17365/EN/

Gearbox oil changed yesterday with no problems. Oil actually looked better than expected. Not all black/grey/gunky. Some tiny metal particles shining in the fluid. Pretty much what I'd expected from 12 years+ wear no doubt.

Now for the diff oil change...