Pre x drive won't harm the transfer case, which functions as an open differential, in this case. BMW permitted towing with one axle on the ground, and this is not at high speed or for a long time.

The issue is entirely the risk to an individual.

Doing a bad and unsafe practice for forty years doesn't make it safe or recommended.

This board has members who have been in the business, and seasoned amateurs, and complete amateurs. Some models of X5 have x drive, some don't. The vehicles respond differently to having one axle with traction and one without.

The practice described above, with one axle hanging, and the other on the wheels but not blocked fore and aft, with the transmission in gear at times, and the individual both in the cabin and under the vehicle at different times, is dangerous. Recommending it to readers with a range of experience, and varied transfer case designs, is unconscionable IMO.

This is based on my many years in the industry, when I had responsibility for my own and my employee's safety. I can describe too many accidents where a combination of risk factors came together with unfortunate results.

Ghost, I think concern for other member's safety trumps your hurt feelings.

__________________
2007 X3 3.0si, 6 MT, Premium, White

Retired:
2008 535i, 6 MT, M Sport, Premium, Space Grey
2003 X5 3.0 Steptronic, Premium, Titanium Silver
2002 325xi 5 MT, Steel Grey
2004 Z4 3.0 Premium, Sport, SMG, Maldives Blue