Installing new shaft seal

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 7 other vehicles, including the 2014 BMW X6, 2013 BMW X6, 2012 BMW X6, 2011 BMW X6, and 2010 BMW X6. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: Circlip (1) must always be replaced.

Install circlip (1) in sun gear in such a way that opening (2) is positioned at 6 o'clock.

Fig 1: Identifying Circlip

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Protector (1) serves to protect the sealing lips on shaft seal (2) when the drive flange is being installed!

Coat inner surface of protector (3) with provided grease only.

Fig 2: Identifying Protector Inner Surface With Shaft Seal

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Protector must not slip out of shaft seal!

Drive in shaft seal with special tool 33 0 130 as far as it will go.

Do not remove protector (1).

Fig 3: Identifying Protector With Special Tool (33 0 130)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Clean shaft seal races on drive flange thoroughly.

Insert drive flange (1) to measurement A = 4.5 cm into rear differential (spline teeth on drive flange not visible).

Pull out protector at tongue (2).

Push drive flange (1) into rear differential as far as it will go and turn. Press in drive flange (1) further until circlip can be heard and felt to snap into place.

Fig 4: Pushing Drive Flange Into Rear Differential

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

NOTE: The inner design of the differential causes a small, axial play of the drive flange - this play does not imply any damage.

IMPORTANT: High installation forces indicate that the spline teeth on the drive flange/differential bevel gear are damaged/deformed!

Check spline teeth, replaced damaged parts.