12 41 020 Removing and installing/replacing starter motor (M54 / M56 except xi)

Follow instructions for disconnecting and connecting battery, refer to 12 00... INSTRUCTIONS FOR DISCONNECTING AND CONNECTING BATTERY .

Disconnect and cover battery negative terminal.

If fitted:

Remove vacuum reservoir for exhaust flap.

Unclip fuel line (1) from holders (2).

Fig 1: Uncliping Fuel Line From Holders

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Fig 2: Unlocking Plug Of Crankshaft Pulse Generator

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Release nut (1) and disconnect battery positive leads from starter motor.

Installation: 

Tightening torque, refer to 12 41 4AZ in ENGINE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - TIGHTENING TORQUES - 325I, CI & XI - E46 .

Fig 3: Disconnecting Battery Positive Leads From Starter Motor

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Release nuts (1).

Fig 4: Releasing Nut

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Installation: 

Tightening torque, refer to 12 41 4AZ in ENGINE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - TIGHTENING TORQUES - 325I, CI & XI - E46 .

Remove lines (2) from starter motor.

Release both starter motor mounting bolts (1) on transmission:

Release starter mounting bolts from transmission output end with a long extension and a universal joint.

Fig 5: Releasing Both Starter Motor Mounting Bolts On Transmission

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Installation: 

Tightening torque, refer to 12 41 4AZ in ENGINE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - TIGHTENING TORQUES - 325I, CI & XI - E46 .

Withdraw starter motor (1) from transmission flange and remove towards bottom.

Fig 6: Removing Starter Motor

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Installation: 

Check starter motor pinion and ring gear for damage.

Fig 7: Checking Starter Motor Pinion And Ring Gear

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