31 50 001 Removing and installing/replacing front axle differential

IMPORTANT: For the initial filling of a new replacement front axle differential, the gearbox is filled with 600 ml oil! If oil is filled up to the lower edge of the oil filler opening, the gearbox would be overfilled and in rare individual cases oil could emerge from the ventilation opening on the front axle differential.

WARNING: Danger to life!
Secure engine in installation position . See 11 00 670 SECURING ENGINE IN INSTALLATION POSITION (N55) or 11 00 670 SECURING ENGINE IN INSTALLATION POSITION (N54, N54T) to prevent it from falling down.

Necessary preliminary tasks

Secure engine in installation position . See 11 00 670 SECURING ENGINE IN INSTALLATION POSITION (N55) or 11 00 670 SECURING ENGINE IN INSTALLATION POSITION (N54, N54T) .
Drain and dispose of FRONT AXLE DIFFERENTIAL OIL .
Remove LEFT OUTPUT SHAFT .
Press right output shaft out of the front axle differential by approx. 6 to 7 cm
Remove FRONT PROPELLER SHAFT .
Replacement only:
- Replace FRONT AXLE OUTPUT FLANGE ON THE TRANSFER BOX .
  NOTE: Replace the output flange to ensure a clean seal on the transfer box.
Lower FRONT AXLE SUPPORT .

IMPORTANT: Grip front axle differential firmly while releasing last bolt in order to avoid damage caused by the differential falling.

Version with automatic transmission: If necessary, disconnect hydraulic lines from oil sump.

Release screws (1).

Tightening torque 31 50 1AZ .

Detach front axle differential from oil sump and remove towards rear.

Installation note:

Replace O-RING if necessary.

Coat O-ring with front axle differential oil.

Fig 1: Identifying Front Axle Differential Mounting Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After installation

fill with FRONT AXLE DIFFERENTIAL OIL .
Check TRANSFER BOX OIL LEVEL , correct as necessary.
Carry out STEERING ANGLE SENSOR ADJUSTMENT .