33 21 002 Removing And Installing / Replacing Right Output Shaft

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 BMW 550i and 2006 BMW 550i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING:

Scalding hazard!

Only perform the following tasks after the vehicle has cooled down.

Apply handbrake.

Remove rear wheel.

E61: Deactivate and drain air spring/suspension system.

Unscrew collar nut.

Installation:

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

Tightening torque 33 41 3AZ . See WHEEL BEARINGS for specs.

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

Fig 1: Locating Output Shaft Collar Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release bolts and remove with washers (1).

Force output shaft off drive flange with a suitable tool.

Installation:

Before installing output shaft, make sure that drive flange is fully engaged in rear differential.

Replace bolts and washers (1).

Tightening torque 33 21 1AZ . See OUTPUT SHAFT for specs.

Fig 2: Locating Bolts And Washers

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Remove STABILIZER LINK FROM SWINGING ARM .

E60: Remove SPRING STRUT SHOCK ABSORBER FROM WHEEL CARRIER .

E61: Remove rear shock absorber from swinging arm.

Raise wheel carrier for feeding output shaft out and in with workshop jack approx. 20 mm.

Fig 3: Raising Wheel Carrier With Workshop Jack

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Press OUTPUT SHAFT (1) OUT OF DRIVE FLANGE and remove towards centre of car.

Fig 4: Identifying Output Shaft

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After installation:

Check that output shaft is correctly seated in rear differential.
E61: Activate and fill air suspension system