Necessary preliminary tasks

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2012 BMW 328xi, 2012 BMW 328i, 2011 BMW 328xi, 2011 BMW 328i, and 2010 BMW 328xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove underbody protection
Remove heat shields
Remove complete EXHAUST SYSTEM
Remove front muffler (N45T/N46T)
Remove transmission cross-member. See REPLACING CROSSMEMBER FOR TRANSMISSION MOUNTING

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

Tasks are described in REMOVING PROPELLER SHAFT .

NOTE: To rotate propeller shaft, unlock parking gear.

Release screws.

Remove transmission bearing block (1).

Tightening torque 24 71 6AZ .

Fig 1: Locating Transmission Bearing Block Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Grip output flange (1) with special tool 23 0 020 .

Release nut with special tool 23 1 210 .

Tightening torque: 24 13 3AZ .

Installation:

Apply a streak of Loctite 277 over complete thread width.

Replace nut and secure with a mandrel (8 mm) by caulking.

Fig 2: Identifying Special Tools (23 0 020 And 23 1 210)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Detach output flange from output shaft.

Remove spacer.

Push special tool 24 4 360 onto output shaft (1).

Locking hooks (2) must enter completely.

Fig 3: Installing Special Tools (24 4 360) Onto Output Shaft

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Turn locks (1) counterclockwise.

Screw in bolt (2) until radial shaft seal is released.

Fig 4: Turning Locks

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Oil sealing lip on radial shaft seal (1).

Drive radial shaft seal (1) firmly home with special tool 24 4 370 .

Fig 5: Identifying Radial Shaft Seal

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.