Differential Bearing Preload
- Install INCH lb. torque wrench on companion flange lock nut. Measure total preload of drive pinion gear and ring gear, with seals installed. Compare preload reading with that measured during disassembly. Add 2 INCH lbs. (.23 N.m) for each new drive pinion gear seal.
- Preload should meet specifications. If not, perform tooth contact pattern check and adjust total shim thicknesses. After final adjustments or changing shim thicknesses or positions, always verify adjustments with tooth contact pattern check. Install new rear cover gasket, cover and fill with lube oil.
AXLE ASSEMBLY SPECIFICATIONS
| Application |
Specification |
| Axle Shaft End Play |
.002-.004" (.05-.10 mm) |
| Max. Axle Drive |
| |
Flange Runout |
.006" (.15 mm) |
| Ring Gear-to-Pinion |
| |
Gear Backlash |
| |
|
528e |
.003-.005" (.07-.13 mm) |
| |
|
All Other Models |
.002-.004" (.05-.10 mm) |
| Drive Pinion Gear |
| |
Bearing Preload |
| |
|
With Oil Seal |
| |
|
|
320i |
15-29 INCH Lbs. (1.7-3.3 N.m) |
| |
|
|
733i |
23-38 INCH Lbs. (2.6-4.3 N.m) |
| |
|
Without Oil Seal |
| |
|
|
320i |
13-28 INCH Lbs. (1.5-3.2 N.m) |
| |
|
|
733i |
22-36 INCH Lbs. (2.5-4.1 N.m) |
| Total Pinion Bearing & Differential Bearing Preload |
| |
|
With Oil Seal |
4-6 INCH Lbs. (.45-.68 N.m) |
TIGHTENING SPECIFICATIONS
| Application |
Ft.Lbs. (N.m) |
| Rear Housing Cover Bolts |
31-35 (42-47) |
| Companion Flange Nut (Minimum) |
| |
320i |
111 (150) |
| |
528e |
108 (146) |
| |
733i |
224 (303) |
| Drive Flange Cap Bolts |
16-17 (22-23) |
| Drive Flange Nuts |
43-49 (58-66) |
| Axle Shaft Nut |
| |
320i |
295-346 (400-469) |
| |
528e |
169-188 (229-255) |
| |
733i |
289-362 (419-490) |
| Ring Gear Bolts |
| |
320i |
63-74 (85-100) |
| |
528e |
36-40 (49-54) |
| |
733i |
119-141 (161-191) |
| Final Drive Mounting Bolts |
| |
320i |
60-66 (81-89) |
| |
528e |
89 (121) |
| |
733i |
101-112 (137-152) |