Having a hard time removing bolts from steel splash shield on 2003 3.0

[oldskewel]

Most plates are Aluminum, and the weight is not a problem. But some are steel, which I think weigh about twice as much. I expect Optimus has a steel one.

There are 6 16mm bolts+nuts and 2 10mm sheet metal screws on the front to attach to the plastic shield.

Search for it if you're interested, but those 6 bolts+nuts have a torque to yield specification on them, and in theory they need to be replaced each time they are removed. However, BMW dealerships typically do not replace them and do not stock the parts. I've never replaced mine, but I've also adjusted how I torque them (not yielding them any more). Since they may have yielded when first (or last) installed, they may look a little different when you take them off - e.g., thread spacing not uniform.

[OptimusPriM5]

Originally Posted by squidzilla

Yeah I am doing the front diff fluid and want to check carefully for any leaks. I normally have my mechanic do this stuff for me but I am going to to do all of this stuff myself. I see everyone here do all of there own stuff and my plan was to one day be like them and this is my first attempt at doing something besides an oil change and air filter change. Thanks for the tip on the plate, I was thinking it as pretty light so I may have my jack underneath it just in case.

The diff fluid change is relatively easy this is the most challenging part of the job...and BTW dont get everyone started about reuisng the old bolts or not. Also maybe heavy isnt accurate and more awkward for the stiffner plate.

NOTE: when doing and fluid change diff or AT etc always make sure fill plug can be removed BEFORE draining the fluid. I know this is likely common sense to folks but honestly sage advice I employ on these fluid changes.

[squidzilla]

[QUOTE=trader4;1035252]

Originally Posted by OptimusPriM5

Ive done this twice and its a bit of some contortionist action too I only used socket wrench and regular box wrench combo but mine was a 4.6 so not sure how different from a room perspective there is.

Oh and BTW the plate was heavier than I thought and 2 people is easier when reinstalling too, again thats on my 4.6 not sure weight differential on 3.0...FYI

QUOTE]



You can do most jobs with leaving one bolt in, just swivel the plate out
of the way. Makes it very easy instead of having to take it all the way
off.

I would prefer to swivel it. Which bolt should I leave in to do this? Hopefully it is one of the fronts with the two bolts.

[mferek]

[QUOTE=squidzilla;1035255]

Originally Posted by trader4

I would prefer to swivel it. Which bolt should I leave in to do this? Hopefully it is one of the fronts with the two bolts.

Probably either the right front or right rear since the diff is on the front left. Leaving one in is a pretty good tip though. getting that thing back on sucks

[squidzilla]

Ok I went and bought a second set of harbor freight wrenches and this set includes about 8-10 stubby wrenches. One in a 16mm size. That should work. We will see.

[bcredliner]

I have never needed anything other than a thin straight open end wrench. On some the wrench is only part way on but enough to keep the nut from turning. There is an ongoing debate about replacing or not replacing the bolts each time the plate is removed. BMW states they should be replaced. I always do.

[squidzilla]

Well got the one by the front trap door. It and the bolt were all rusted. I had to use the stubby 16mm and then turn it until the wrench jammed on something so the bolt would come out ( it was too hard for me to hold the wrench with one hand while ratcheting with the other. And it turns out all of the bolts have nuts on them not just the two front. This is going to be so fun.

[bcredliner]

Will make it easier if you spray some penetrating oil on them a couple of times before you try to get them off.