33 21 002 Removing and installing / replacing right output shaft

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 BMW 550i and 2008 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.

Remove rear wheel .

E61: Deactivate and drain air spring/suspension system

IMPORTANT: Expand turning lock sufficiently to avoid damaging thread when releasing collar nut.

Release collar nut, activate handbrake for this purpose.

Installation:

Replace collar nut, oil collar nut/wheel bearing contact surface lightly and tighten down.

No oil permitted on thread of shaft journal or collar nut.

Fig 1: Locating Collar Nut

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

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

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 33 21 OUTPUT SHAFT .

Fig 2: Locating Bolts And Washers

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Remove stabilizer link from swinging arm .

E60: Remove spring strut shock absorber from wheel carrier .

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

Fig 3: Raising Wheel Carrier

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

Press output shaft out of drive flange and remove towards center of vehicle.

After installation:

Check that output shaft is correctly seated in rear differential.