Removal & Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 BMW X5, 2005 BMW X5, 2004 BMW X5, and 2003 BMW X5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: If only replacing radial seal it is not necessary to press axle shaft out of drive flange. Axle shaft (1) and swivel bearing (2) remain together as a single unit during removal and installation. See Fig 1.

Remove axle shaft. See DRIVE AXLE SHAFTS (FRONT) .
Use a screwdriver (2) to lever radial seal (1) out of front axle differential housing (3). See Fig 2.
Remove protective sleeve (2) from new radial seal (1). See Fig 3.

NOTE: Coat sealing lips of new radial seal with gear oil.

Drive new radial seal firmly home with Special Tool (31 5 130). See Fig 4.
Carefully insert protective sleeve into radial seal.
Insert axle shaft part way. Cut open protective sleeve and remove. Finish inserting axle shaft up to stop.
After completing work, open filler plug and check front axle differential fluid level. Fluid level should be up to lower edge of filler plug.

Fig 1: Identifying Axle Shaft & Swivel Bearing Unit

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Fig 2: Levering Radial Seal Out Of Differential Housing

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Fig 3: Removing Protective Sleeve

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Fig 4: Driving Radial Seal Home

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.