Necessary preliminary tasks

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 BMW 328xi, 2010 BMW 335xi, 2010 BMW 328xi, 2009 BMW 335xi, and 2009 BMW 328xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove underbody protection
Remove center muffler (N53 only)
Remove complete exhaust system. See EXHAUST SYSTEM - REPAIR - E90 or EXHAUST SYSTEM - REPAIR - E92
Remove heat shields

Release screws.

Tightening torque 26 11 9AZ .

Remove front propeller shaft at output flange of transfer case and tie to one side.

Installation:

Replace screws.

Fig 1: Locating Front Propeller Shaft Output Flange Screws

G04745103

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Remove propeller shaft from transmission.
Release center bearing.
Tie propeller shaft to one side.

Tasks are described in Removing PROPELLER SHAFT .

NOTE: Support transmission with special tools 00 2 030 / 23 4 050.

Fig 2: Supporting Transmission With Special Tools 00 2 030 / 23 4 050

G04745104

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

If necessary

Release bolts and remove metal plate (1).

Fig 3: Identifying Metal Plate

G04745105

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Disconnect plugs (1) and (2) from servomotor.

Fig 4: Identifying Plugs

G04745106

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws.

Remove transmission cross-member.

Tightening torque 27 00 10AZ .

Fig 5: Locating Transmission Cross-Member Screws

G04745107

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screw connection of transfer case.

Tightening torque 27 00 9AZ .

Remove transfer case.

Installation:

Pay attention to dowel pin (1).

Grease dowel pin (1).

Apply a thin coat of grease to splines.

Grease: WEICON ANTI-SEIZE.

Fig 6: Identifying Dowel Pin

G04745108

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.