Suspend the detached drive axle
from the car body with a stiff wire
hook to prevent damage to the outer
CV joint.
Pry output flange from differential. For
leverage, use a wooden dowel as
shown.
Note:
Be prepared to catch dripping oil in
a pan.
Inspect flange at the point where
the oil seal rides on the shaft.
Replace the flange if there is a
groove worn in the shaft.
-
Pry old oil seal from its recess
using BMW special tool 00 5 010
or equivalent seal puller.
CAUTION!
Be careful not to mar the differential
housing when removing the seal.
-
Dip new seal in differential
lubricant and drive into place until
fully seated.
Replace locking circlip (
arrow
) on
output flange.
-
Install flange by pressing it in by
hand until snap ring engages. It
may be necessary to turn flange
slightly while pushing.
-
Attach drive axle and tighten bolts.
-
Top off differential with oil.
Rear Axle Final Drive
http://ebahn.bentleypublishers.com/BMW/3/E46/Repair%20Manuals/3...
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Summary of Contents for 1999-2005 M3
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