Progress Report.

The differential is in and "operational" but not fully functional. Once the output flanges were swapped I could proceed with the diff swap and I am happy to report there were no unpleasant surprises. The flanges swapped, the 35d driveshaft bolts up, diff mounting hardware was the same, etc.

Currently the QMVH harness, diff, and F85 axles are installed so all of the work on the outside of the vehicle is done. Up next will be collecting the necessary pigtails for the interior wiring so I can build a harness which will connect the ICM and QMVH modules with the rest of the vehicle. Sprinkle in some coding and we should be in business. Sounds easy but I am sure the electrical will be more involved than the mechanical work which was just done.

I have a couple test drives under my belt and everything seems "fine" lol. No concerning noises or behavior from the diff which is comforting, it only has 25k on it but you never know with parts from dismantlers. Without chassis integration the diff acts like a normal open diff so dynamics are identical to before.

Here are some pics and info!
Evan

Swapping the output flanges from X6 to F85 was harder than expected. My dual big ass pry bar method wasn't doing the trick so I dropped it off at a local BMW mechanic and they struggled with it for 5 days before returning it, they even had a local foreman stop by to take a look. Once back in my possession I used my new-to-me 5.5lb slide hammer paired with two small metal stakes which preloaded the flanges. The combo go the stubborn flanges to release.




F85 vs X6


Axle comparison




Axles going in


Splines cleaned


Out with the old and in with the new


Wiring harness FINALLY showed up from Latvia 2.5 months later after going MIA with USPS...


QMVH harness routed up and over the subframe from the cargo area.


New vent pipe to replace a broken one


In we go


Fluids that are 1/4 the price of the differential itself, lol, and 6 drain/fill plugs.





Wide Load