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

Follow instructions for disconnecting and connecting battery.

Disconnect and cover battery negative terminal.

Remove reinforcement plate on front axle support. See 51 71 374 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING REINFORCEMENT PLATE ON FRONT AXLE SUPPORT

If fitted:

Remove vacuum reservoir for exhaust flap. See 18 00 020 REMOVING AND INSTALLING COMPLETE EXHAUST SYSTEM (M54)

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

Fig 1: Unclipping Fuel Line From Holders

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Unlock plug (1) of crankshaft pulse generator and disconnect.

Fig 2: Unlocking Plug Of Crankshaft Pulse Generator

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

Installation: 

Fig 3: Releasing Nut

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Release nuts (1).

Remove lines (2) from starter motor.

Fig 4: Removing Lines From Starter Motor

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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.

Installation: 

Fig 5: Releasing Both Starter Motor Mounting Bolts

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

Fig 6: Withdrawing Starter Motor From Transmission Flange

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Installation: 

Check starter motor pinion and ring gear for damage.

Fig 7: Checking Starter Motor Pinion & Ring Gear

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