Great thread. I have never been into a ZF transmission, love the look of the castings.

Last transmission I did at home was in a 66 Mustang (Cruisomatic). I had an ace, as my father taught a course for Ford called Valve Bodies Don't Bite, introducing dealer mechanics to transmission repairs. He taught the same principles you list; methodical approach, attention to cleanliness, use the manual/parts book. There were a couple of special pullers, etc, that he had access to and which helped.

Congratulations on the job.

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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