Disclaimer: Do this at your own risk. I did my best to get the right torque specs, but they could be wrong. Each member is responsible for their own safety and work quality.
TOOLS NEEDED:
- 14-mm hex bit socket, 1/2 drive (for drain and fill plugs)
- Socket wrench
- Torque wrench
- 16-mm socket (for rear reinforcement plate)
- Fluid transfer pump
- (Optional) Breaker bar
- (Optional) Anti-seize
PARTS NEEDED:
- 2 x New differential plugs (same part for fill & drain)
- 1.5 L of new differential fluid (only using about 1 L but overage for filling process)
- Kits available. I used this:
https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw...-33117525064kt
TIGHTENING TORQUE INFORMATION:
https://www.newtis.info/tisv2/a/en/f...nce/1VnXv9aQIq
HELPFUL VIDEO:
- Big thanks to Fast400, THE MAN
- I used this video heavily.
PROCEDURES:
1. Vehicle should be brought up to normal operating temperature by driving for 15-20 minutes. (I ended up doing this cold, but let the fluid drain for nearly an hour. Hope that isn't a problem.)
2. Safely get vehicle up on jack stands, ramps, or a lift. Be sure the vehicle is as level as possible.
3. Remove the rear reinforcement plate using the 16-mm socket and wrench. You can get to the differential fill plug without removing this plate, but filling it and reinstalling the plug while the differential fluid leaks out is near impossible. 4 bolts connect the rearmost portion of the plate to the axle and 2 bolts connect it to the trailing link.
https://www.newtis.info/tisv2/a/en/f...nsion/HbZHLtkU
https://www.newtis.info/tisv2/a/en/f...ension/5c1xBWW
4. Loosen the fill plug using the 14-mm hex bit to make sure it will open without any problems. If you drain the differential first and have problems with opening the fill plug, you will be screwed. You may need the breaker bar if the plug has been on a long time. Be careful not to strip the plug.
5. Place drip pan underneath the differential, then remove the drain plug. Allow all of the fluid to drain. Reinstall the drain plug and tighten to 45 Nm, or 33.19 ft-lb.
6. Remove the fill plug. Fill with new differential fluid until it starts to spill out of the hole fill hole. Reinstall the fill plug and tighten to 45 Nm, or 33.19 ft-lb.
7. Reinstall the rear reinforcement plates using the 16-mm socket and wrench. Put some Anti-seize on the bolts if they are particularly rusted or corroded. Torque all bolts to 56 Nm, or 41.3 ft-lb.
8. Lower the car. Warm it up and look for any leaks. As a precaution, put a clean piece of cardboard, paper, or tarp to look for any leaks overnight for several days of use. If you start seeing fluid dripping, you'll have to identify where it is coming from and top off any lost fluid.
9. Drink an adult beverage of your choice for a job well done!