So far have only found an implication that BMW has NOT changed the seal on the pipe from an auto tech forum. Not exactly concrete.

I have found this MTC Xover pipe. MTC makes a collapsible pipe kit as well so maybe this seal HAS been redesigned.

MTC Coolant Pipe

Also, I was watching the AGA installation video of their Xover pipe. In it he mentions that to do the OE version of the pipe you have to remove the timing covers... which I'm fine with. But then he goes on to say that you have to remove the timing chain and sprockets??? Is that actually necessary? I certainly don't want to do that, and if that's the case I'll just get a collapsible kit. Anyone know if AGA's claim that the sprockets and chain have to come off are true?

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2005 X5 4.4i Build 04/05 Maintenance/Build Log
Nav, Pano, Sport (Purchased 06/14 w/ 109,000 miles) (Sold 8/15 w/121,000 miles)

2006 X5 4.8is Build 11/05 Maintenance/Build Log
Nav, DSP, Pano, Running Boards, OEM Tow Hitch, Cold Weather Pckg (Purchased 08/15 w/ 90,500 miles)

2010 X5 35d Build 02/10
Nav, HiFi, 6 DVD, Sports Pckg, Cold Weather Pckg, HUD, CAS, Running Boards, Leather Dash, PDC, Pano (Purchased 03/17 w/ 136,120 miles)