33 11 091 Replacing drive flange on left or right of rear axle final drive

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 BMW X5, 2009 BMW X5, 2008 BMW X5, and 2007 BMW X5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools required:

13 5 251
13 5 253

NOTE: If a flange has drifted and is loose, it is necessary always to replace both flanges (left as well as right).

IMPORTANT: The drive flange is replaced only in conjunction with the circlip and shaft seal!

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove rear axle final drive .

Drive out drive flange (1) with special tools 13 5 251 and 13 5 253.

Fig 1: Drive Out Drive Flange (1)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installing output flange: Shaft seal and circlip must be replaced!

IMPORTANT: Circlip (1) must always be replaced. Install circlip (1) in sun gear in such a way that opening (2) is positioned at 6 o'clock.

Fig 2: Install Circlip (1) In Sun Gear

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation note: Clean shaft seal race on drive flange thoroughly. Push drive flange into rear axle final drive as far as it will go and turn. Press in drive flange further until circlip can be heard and felt to snap into place. The inner design of the differential causes a small, axial play of the drive flange - this play does not imply any damage.

IMPORTANT: High installation forces indicate that the gearing on the drive flange/differential bevel gear is damaged/deformed!

After installation: Correct transmission oil level/change rear axle final drive oil.