6AT->6MT on (2011) 128i using 330i 6MT (GS6-37BZ)

[stitch2k1]

Hey all, first time posting on these forums. My father has a super mint low miles (2011) 128i, and he wants to swap it to a manual.
I’ve only been able to find a GS6-37BZ locally, I know Realoem lists the GS6-17BG as the factory 128i trans. There seems to be a lot better reviews about the ZF 6MT vs the Getrag 6MT. We’re also going to be putting a 3SIM on this car, so hence why the 330i trans came into question.

I’ve been googling this for the last hour and haven’t found anyone talking about doing this other than seeing the factory 130i used this transmission.
I’m already aware of driveshaft differences, and that the 330i rear end is different. Would that make getting a LSD easier? Something else read that with a 330i rear end in a 128i you can fit 135i Brembos?

Thanks in advance

[MOD.Works]

The 130i and Z4 3.0i gearbox has a different part number than the 330i/530i and other models as well. I don't know the exact difference. But I installed a clutch from an e90 330i in my 130i car. It works fine, although it was a different part number and gearbox.
And e.g. e90 330i gearbox type depends on the model year. Below are a couple of examples.
I'm pretty sure the GS6-37Bx gearboxes are pretty similar and interchangeable though. There is a difference in the last letters and it tells the exact gearbox model. The first letters of GS6-37B are gasoline engines and GS6-37D are diesel engines. Diesel has shorter ratios and small gears.
Note that GS6-37BZ is also used in e46 and others.


https://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/par...&q=23007565853 ("BZ")

https://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/par...&q=23007565188 ("BG")

https://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/par...&q=23007565178




All 128i, 328i, 330i also 130i/Z4 use TYP188 diff. Ratio is differences and drive shaft flange. Output flanges is the same.

I can highly recommend this. It's completely bold on, just add oil and attach the diff to the car.
I have bought two LSD diffs from him and have had no negative experiences. Likewise, I know a few other guys who have Diff bought from him.
I could give a tip to ask for more information, then I think you can agree on a suitable price and options...
He has international shipping, but I don't know about US customs and tax issues. You have to figure it out because it affects the price.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/285035568261

[[M]eager28]

Originally looked at this thread for knowledge about m/t transmission spec (related to daydreamed power swaps), and finding your lsd recommendation more realistic. While I'm here though, do you have any wisdom for an exhaust burble enthusiast looking for catless headers on a budget?

[MOD.Works]

I bought my headers from Aliexpress. It's been almost two years. They fit perfectly into place.
I bought mine from this store. The correct version is the "US MODEL", where the O2 sensors are in the collector. The ad is gone, but I think most of them are the same and come from the same manufacturer in China.


https://www.aliexpress.com/item/4000...e45b1802O5aaIK

[[M]eager28]

Thanks. I have spotted some similar (same exact image) ebay headers that look promising, but will probably wait until after the holidays to pull the trigger. Assuming the seller is not recycling the image, can you confirm they looked the same on arrival?

https://www.ebay.com/itm/27501095478...Bk9SR7iEsNWdYQ

[MOD.Works]

Mine were exactly as pictured