E46 4WD only

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 BMW 525i, 2002 BMW 525i, and 2001 BMW 525i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove left and right swivel bearings.

Remove output shafts.

Remove front propeller shaft. See 26 11 000 REMOVING AND INSTALLING COMPLETE PROPELLER SHAFT

Remove front axle differential. FRONT AXLE (WITH SPRING STRUTS)

Detach brackets for left and right control arms from engine carrier. Release retaining brackets for left and right stabilizer bars. Unfasten screw connection on front axle support and lower the front axle support.

These operations are described in the work step Replacing front axle support.

NOTE: There is no need to detach the steering gear from the front axle support.

Unfasten oil sump screws at transmission and engine ends. Lower and remove oil sump.

Fig 1: Unfastening Oil Sump Screws At Transmission & Engine Ends

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Sealing faces clean and free of seal debris.

Apply approx. 3 mm wide, 2 mm high coat of Drei Bond 1209 sealing agent (refer to BMW Parts Service) to the area around seams.

Fig 2: Applying Coat Of Drei Bond 1209 Sealing Agent To Area Around Seams

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Replace gasket
Install oil sump.
Insert all oil sump screws.
Insert screws in transmission end without preload at this stage.
Tighten down screws in engine end.
Tighten down screws in transmission end.