31 51 010 Replacing radial seal for drive flange of front axle differential

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2018 BMW 330i xDrive and 2017 BMW 330i xDrive. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools required:

23 0 020
31 5 130
33 1 150

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Disconnect the BATTERY EARTH LEAD .
Remove the REINFORCEMENT PLATE .
Remove the FRONT PROPELLER SHAFT .

Mark position of nut with respect to shaft with punch marks (arrow).

Lever out lockplate (1) with a suitable tool.

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Risk of damage!
Do not place special tool on threaded holes of drive flange.

Secure drive flange with special tool 23 0 020 against turning and release nut (1).

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Risk of damage!
Mount special tool only with longer screws (M 10x30) on drive flange.

Pull drive flange off drive shaft with special tool 33 1 150.

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Lever radial shaft seal (1) out of front differential with a suitable screwdriver (2).

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation note:

Drive in radial shaft seal with special tool 31 5 130 as far as it will go.

Coat sealing lips of new shaft seal (1) with front differential oil.

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Risk of damage!
Do not tighten nut beyond punch marks. Otherwise the clamping sleeve will be damaged.

Clean drive flange and attach.

Tighten down nut until punch marks on nut and shaft are aligned.

Install new lockplate (1).

After installation:

Check FRONT AXLE DIFFERENTIAL OIL , oil level in front axle differential, correct if necessary.

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.