31 50 001 Removing and installing/replacing front axle differential (N55 engine with AWD)

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.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove BOTH OUTPUT SHAFTS .
Remove PROPELLER SHAFT on front axle differential.
Secure engine in INSTALLATION POSITION to prevent it from falling down.
Lower FRONT AXLE SUPPORT .
REMOVE left engine mount.

IMPORTANT: Danger of injury!
When releasing the last bolt, grip the front axle differential to prevent it from falling down.

Release screws (1 and 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 .
Carry out WHEEL ALIGNMENT PROCEDURE .