18 32 050 Removing and replacing the catalytic converter cylinder 1-4 (N63)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 BMW X5, 2012 BMW X5, and 2011 BMW X5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: Risk of burning!
Only perform this repair work on an engine that has cooled down.

NOTE: To remove the catalytic converter cylinders 1-4, it is necessary to remove the catalytic converter cylinders 5-8.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Release screws (1).

Remove right cable clip (2).

Fig 1: Identifying Cable Clip And Screws

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Release screw (1) on catalytic converter.

Tightening torque: 18 32 4AZ .

Release clamp (2) on catalytic converter.

Replace clamp (2).

Tightening torque: 18 32 1AZ .

Installation note:

Clamps must be installed with the screws toward the inside (Figure). Otherwise, a top heat shield can no longer be installed.

Fig 2: Identifying Clamp And Screw On Catalytic Converter

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Installation note:

The ends of the V-band clamps must rest parallel to each other.

Tightening torque: 18 32 1AZ .

Fig 3: Identifying V-Band Clamps

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Installation note:

If you can see a gap between the ends of the V-band clamps, release and then repeat the screw connection.

Tightening torque: 18 32 1AZ .

Fig 4: Locating Gap Of V-Band Clamps

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Installation note:

If the ends of the V-band clamps are positioned under each other, release and then repeat the screw connection.

Tightening torque: 18 32 1AZ .

Fig 5: Locating Screw Connection Of V-Band Clamps

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Picture shows the left side, carry out the operation for the right side in an identical way.

Release screws (1).

Detach hose (2) from cylinder head cover.

Release screws (3) on holder.

Tightening torque: 18 32 2AZ .

Fig 6: Identifying Hose And Screws On Holder

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NOTE: Picture shows the engine removed.

Release screws (1) on catalytic converter, cylinders 5-8, rear, at cylinder head.

Tightening torque: 18 32 3AZ .

Remove catalytic converter for cylinders 1-4.

Fig 7: Identifying Screws On Catalytic Converter

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Installation note:

Picture shows the engine removed.

Replace the seals (1) on the exhaust turbocharger.

Fig 8: Identifying Seals On Exhaust Turbocharger

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Installation note:

Picture shows the left side, the procedure for the right side is identical.

Clean sealing surfaces.

Replace gasket (1).

Fig 9: Identifying Gasket

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Assemble engine.

Check exhaust system for leaks.