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 to prevent it from falling down. See 11 00 670 SECURE ENGINE IN INSTALLATION POSITION (N55) or 11 00 670 SECURE ENGINE IN INSTALLATION POSITION (N20, N26) .

Necessary preliminary tasks :

Secure engine in installation position . See 11 00 670 SECURE ENGINE IN INSTALLATION POSITION (N55) or 11 00 670 SECURE ENGINE IN INSTALLATION POSITION (N20, N26) .
Drain and dispose of FRONT DIFFERENTIAL OIL
Remove OUTPUT SHAFT ON LEFT AND RIGHT .
REMOVE front propeller shaft.
Lower FRONT AXLE SUPPORT .

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

Release screws (1, 2).

Remove front axle differential downwards.

Installation note :

During removal and installation: Replace O-RING .

Coat O-ring with front axle differential oil.

Make sure screws are installed in correct positions.

Screws (1) M12x55
Screw (2) M12x105

Tightening torque 31 50 1AZ .

Fig 1: Identifying Front Axle Differential Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After installation :

Fill FRONT AXLE DIFFERENTIAL WITH OIL .
Check OIL LEVEL IN TRANSFER BOX , correct if necessary.