33 11 091 Replacing drive flange on left or right of rear differential (M3)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 BMW M3, 2010 BMW M3, 2009 BMW M3, and 2008 BMW M3. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: When replacing the drive flange, you must also replace the SHAFT SEAL .

L Drive flange, left

R Drive flange, right

Fig 1: Identifying Drive Flange Of Rear Differential

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Necessary preliminary tasks

Remove OUTPUT SHAFT FROM REAR DIFFERENTIAL and tie back

Press drive flange (1) with suitable screwdrivers off rear differential.

Installation:

Replaced deformed or damaged dust plates.

Insert drive flange and rotate until spline on flange meshes with teeth on differential bevel gear.

Press drive flange in further until circlip locates with an audible click.

Fig 2: Identifying Drive Flange

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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.

Replace circlip (1).

Installation:

twist retaining ring until both ends settle into the groove.

Clean shaft seal race on drive flange thoroughly.

Coat drive flange at contact face of shaft seal with hypoid oils for final drive unit with disc-type limited-slip differential (M models). See REAR AXLE - OPERATING FLUIDS .

Fig 3: Locating Circlip

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement

Replace SHAFT SEAL .

After installation

Check REAR DIFFERENTIAL OIL LEVEL , correct if necessary