Euro E36 M3 6-speed trans

[dadsbmw]

So I just recently swapped an S52 into my e30 with a zf 5-speed trans and 3.46 gearing. Makes for a ton grunt down low but has the side effect of sitting around 3,750 rpm at 80mph on the freeway.

I knew this would be an issue and had vaguely looked into what it would take to fit a 6-speed, but it just seemed like a bit too much time and money when I already had everything I needed. Well fast forward to my car now up and running and guess what, she slips out of 3rd gear under power! Well if I'm going to replace or rebuild the trans anyways, I may as well do it the way I want!

Here's where I run into a snag though, this s52 is a fresh build and has a fully balanced rotating assembly including clutch and flywheel. Doing the common e46 6-speed swap would require a completely different clutch and flywheel, and would certainly throw off the balance of the motor. As such I'm looking into a Euro E36 M3 6-speed swap, because as I understand it, it utilizes the same input shaft, clutch, flywheel, TOB etc as the stock zf 5-speed. I guess my questions here are two fold:

• Can anyone confirm that the euro 6-speed (Getrag) does in fact use the same clutch/flywheel as the US 5-speed (ZF)?
• Am I correct in assuming that going with a different clutch/flywheel will have a deleterious effect on the engine?

Appreciate the help!

[e30austin]

The euro 6 speed will use US E36 M3 clutch parts. I would find another ZF320, solely due to the cost of the euro 6 speed trans.

[dadsbmw]

Ive found one for $1250 shipped. I think I'm willing to pay the premium. Thanks for the confirmation!

[e30austin]

Sure thing. Best of luck with the job. Do note that you'll need the euro e36 M3 shifting arm and selector rod, as well as an automagic e36 M3 sedan driveline.

[dadsbmw]

Yes, hoping to get the carrier and selector rod sent with the trans. Appreciate the reminders and part suggestions!