2006 4.8is front diff removal

[djkovacs]

Hey Guys,
im a New poster, and I have a question. I have a 06 x5 4.8is, with 70K in mint shape but my front diffs pinion bearing went out. I am in the process of pulling it out so I can replace the bearing in addition to freshening up whatever else might need doing. Here is my problem: I have everything unbolted, driveshaft, front axles, lowered subframe, disconnected left engine mount and removed it, raised engine, removed the four bolts holding diff, I can turn the diff almost 180 degrees in position, but cannot for the life of me remove it, it gets stuck in between the oil pan and subframe. Ive swore at it, kicked it, swore at it some more, and my fingers are all bleeding but the thing does not come out. Am I missing something? can someone give me some advice? Thanks

[SlickGT1]

Have you tried prying it against something.

[djkovacs]

Originally Posted by SlickGT1

Have you tried prying it against something.

Yes and no. The engine is lifted about an inch on the left side and the subframe is dropped roughly an inch as well, problem is that the power steering lines are getting tight and I'm scared to break them. The subframe with all 6 bolts out only wants to lower about an inch, i feel resistance past that

[SlickGT1]

Unbolt the rack from the frame. I had this issue when doing mounts.

[djkovacs]

Thanks, got it after lots of swearing! Now where would i find parts for the diff? The pinion bearing is toast, but the gears are mint,would be a shame to replace the diff for a lousy 20 dollar bearing. But BMW doesnt list any internals.

[Bayerische E53]

Call up the boys at diffsonline.com - Custom Geared BMW LSD Differentials

Although they likely won't have that part in stock, they're probably the mostly likely place to be able to source it for you.

[SlickGT1]

Cobra transmission. Look them up.

[djkovacs]

Thanks guys, stripping her down tommorow, is there a crush sleeve in there as well?