Transmission & Clutch Assembly: Removal
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 17 other vehicles, including the 2003 BMW M5, 2003 BMW 540i, 2003 BMW 530i, 2003 BMW 525i, and 2002 BMW M5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Remove negative battery cable. Check clutch lining wear before removing transmission.
- Insert Clutch Lining Thickness Gauge (21-2-060) into slave cylinder opening, up to stop on tool grip. Replace disc if gap is more than .197" (5.0 mm).
- On models equipped with automatic stability and traction control, remove throttle body. From inside engine compartment, remove upper transmission-to-engine mount bolts and bracket. Remove control rod at transmission from gearshift lever.
- Raise and support vehicle. Remove front exhaust system components. Remove bolts, and discard lock nuts holding drive shaft flange to transmission shaft flange. Remove heat shield. Disconnect back-up light switch connector. Remove stabilizer link and breather cap.
- Disconnect center support bearing and bracket. Remove drive shaft from front flange, and position shaft aside. Hold rear of engine with overhead support. Support transmission with jack. Remove rear transmission mount and crossmember from body.
- Remove clutch slave cylinder from clutch housing. Remove engine position sensors from clutch housing (if equipped). Unplug electrical connectors from transmission. Remove transmission mount bolts. Slide transmission rearward and lower away from vehicle.
- Remove flywheel cover. Install Flywheel Holder (11-2-160). Remove pressure plate bolts one turn at a time in a crisscross pattern.