Replacing Radial Seal on Left Output Shaft

Replacing Radial Seal on Left Output Shaft


Note: After completing work, check front axle differential fluid level.

Caution!
Use only the approved gear oil in this front axle differential. Failure to comply with this requirement will result in serious damage to the differential!





Note on E53:
Output shaft is not pressed out of drive flange.
Output shaft (1) and swivel bearing (2) remain together as a single unit during removal and installation.

Note on E46:
Remove control arm from front axle support.





Note on E46:
Output shaft is not pressed out of drive flange.

Swivel bearing (1), output shaft (2) and control arm (3) remain together as a single unit during removal and installation.
Remove left output shaft.





Use a screwdriver (2) or a tire iron to lever radial seal (1) out of bearing block (3).





Remove protective sleeve (2) from radial seal (1).

Note: New radial seal (1) is equipped with a protective sleeve (2).

This protective sleeve serves to protect the sealing lip against damage when the output shaft is inserted into the bearing pedestal.

Drive radial seal firmly home with special tool 31 5 130. Coat sealing lips of new radial seal with gear oil.
Carefully insert protective sleeve into radial seal.





Note:
Before inserting output shaft as far as it will go, pull protective sleeve (1) out of radial seal.
Cut open protective sleeve and remove.