31 60 000 Removing And Installing/Replacing Left Or Right Output Shaft

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 10 other vehicles, including the 2010 BMW 535xi, 2010 BMW 528xi, 2009 BMW 535xi, 2009 BMW 528xi, and 2008 BMW 535xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools required:

31 5 110

IMPORTANT: Risk of damage!
Do not drive output shaft out of drive flange with an impact tool.

Remove front wheel.

Release collar nut; to do so, press brake pedal to floor.

Installation:

Replace collar nut, apply a light coating of oil to contact surface and tighten down.

Tightening torque 31 21 2AZ .

Secure collar nut by peening on flat areas of output shaft.

Fig 1: Locating Collar Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Remove reinforcement plate .

Remove steering gear cover at side.

Remove tie rod end from swivel bearing.

Remove tension strut from guide joint.

Remove control arm from swivel bearing.

Remove stabilizer link from spring strut.

Turn swivel bearing to one side.

Press output shaft out of drive flange and tie up.

Press output shaft with special tool 31 5 110 out of front differential/bearing block and remove.

Installation:

Replace shaft seal in front differential/bearing block and coat sealing lips with front differential oil.

Replace retaining ring and slide in output shaft over resistance of retaining ring. Output shaft must snap audibly into place.

Fig 2: Identifying Special Tool (31 5 110)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: High installation forces indicate that the spline teeth on the output shaft/rear differential side gear are damaged/deformed!
Check spline teeth, replaced damaged parts.

After installation:

Check front differential oil level, correct if necessary