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ZF310 and ZF320...differences?

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    ZF310 and ZF320...differences?

    So I just picked up a running 1992 e34 sedan. It has (of course) the M50 NV motor and ZF310 transmission. I have scoured the boards here to find the difference between the 310 and 320 ZF transmissions but no luck. Anyone have a clue? I am a newbie and just want to know that I'm not swapping in the obsolete or inferior version of the 320. Thanks!

    #2
    Inconsequential from what I've read, I wouldn't worry about it being inferior. Non-vanos on the other hand....

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      #3
      It is basically the same transmission.

      Differences are:

      310 means the torq rating in newton meters, BMW required regular ATF fluid with 310. The 310 has black plug covers for shift springs that tend to be better quality.

      320 bmw now requires you to use their own MTF-LT1, because of this they are now rating it slightly higher torq, thus the designation 320. The 320 has green shift springs covers and sleeves inside tend to have seizing issues.

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        #4
        Am I correct in understanding that ATF can go in the 320? I got mine from a specialist rebuilder, and they said it's a matter of preference and experience.

        I researched on BFc and also heard of many people running an ATF/MTF(gear oil) blended cocktail with good results.

        I really was unsure.. ATF is so drastically different from the 75w-80 MTF. Thinner which is probably good for cold weather, but just adequate in terms of longevity and protection where the gear oil does a better job?

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          #5
          I am running Redline ATF in Lola's ZF320.
          Originally posted by kronus
          would be in depending on tip slant and tube size

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            #6
            Thanks for the info!

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              #7
              last of all...can anyone recommend a good source to rebuild the ZF310?

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                #8
                Originally posted by DesertBMW View Post
                It is basically the same transmission.

                Differences are:

                310 means the torq rating in newton meters, BMW required regular ATF fluid with 310. The 310 has black plug covers for shift springs that tend to be better quality.

                320 bmw now requires you to use their own MTF-LT1, because of this they are now rating it slightly higher torq, thus the designation 320. The 320 has green shift springs covers and sleeves inside tend to have seizing issues.

                incorrect info;


                the 320 can use ATF happily - e36m comes with a 310 (1995) and 320 update (1996-99). Ask both zf5's in my street or race car.

                shifting detent spring things are a wear item in all the Zf 5 speeds, 310 or 320.

                Originally posted by butters View Post
                Am I correct in understanding that ATF can go in the 320? I got mine from a specialist rebuilder, and they said it's a matter of preference and experience.

                I researched on BFc and also heard of many people running an ATF/MTF(gear oil) blended cocktail with good results.

                I really was unsure.. ATF is so drastically different from the 75w-80 MTF. Thinner which is probably good for cold weather, but just adequate in terms of longevity and protection where the gear oil does a better job?
                ATF and MTL seem happily interchanged between the two; the getrag 6 speed units seem to Hate Manual trans fluid 75-90 (e39 m5 / e46 m3); i filled my 6mt with mtl and ended up draining it to refill with ATF - the thick MTL hated shifting untill gearbox was warm. ATF filled the 6mt getrag and it was happy - climate was Northern california; not ever cold.
                OBD1 M54/M52TU swap as a M50b25

                Z4 non powered steering rack fits e30



                Euro e46 2005/6 320d 6mt gearbox into E30 with M20 hardy and beck 1985 327s engine

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