Attempting both CV axles change.

neilrmp · #1 02-26-2011, 12:45 PM

Hey guys, tomorrow I am going to change both my front left and right axles on my x5, along with rotors, brake pad and sensors, it is my first time doing the axles and would appreciate any tips, tricks on getting it done quickly and efficiently, thank you.

joeboch348 · #2 02-26-2011, 02:17 PM

do'nt be afraid to yank on em like you're starting a mower. it's pretty easy if you have the tools. take your time and do one side at a time

neilrmp · #3 02-26-2011, 02:24 PM

thanks, I am using a friend's garage with all the tools, so that's a plus..

JLW · #4 02-26-2011, 02:49 PM

Been along time since I've done it. The first comment I was going to make was "tools". If you got that covered I think this is the best local reference for pictures.

http://www.xoutpost.com/articles/x5/...mw-x5-e53.html

There are many ways to get from A-Z. In your case I would not want to damage the lower control arm boot if you are not going to replace it. I just use a pickle fork and pop it off and into the trash. As mentioned above popping the shafts out can sometimes be tough. I think I used a pry bar. Also, you are likely going to bend the bearing dust shield on the back of the spindle (unless you have trick BMW pullers). I just bent it back, no issue.

neilrmp · #5 02-26-2011, 03:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JLW

Been along time since I've done it. The first comment I was going to make was "tools". If you got that covered I think this is the best local reference for pictures.

http://www.xoutpost.com/articles/x5/...mw-x5-e53.html

There are many ways to get from A-Z. In your case I would not want to damage the lower control arm boot if you are not going to replace it. I just use a pickle fork and pop it off and into the trash. As mentioned above popping the shafts out can sometimes be tough. I think I used a pry bar. Also, you are likely going to bend the bearing dust shield on the back of the spindle (unless you have trick BMW pullers). I just bent it back, no issue.

I have actualy read this post a couple times, this was one of the reason I am doing it, thank you for the heads up..

blktoptrvl · #6 02-26-2011, 02:57 PM

Only thing I would have to say is to make damn sure it is securely supported when you start pulling.

neilrmp · #7 02-26-2011, 03:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by blktoptrvl

Only thing I would have to say is to make damn sure it is securely supported when you start pulling.

I will ty..

jst2878 · #8 02-27-2011, 02:28 PM

use a prybar to pop those suckersout. are your axle boots broken or is there any issues you are having while driving that caused you to want to replace them?

neilrmp · #9 02-27-2011, 09:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jst2878

use a prybar to pop those suckersout. are your axle boots broken or is there any issues you are having while driving that caused you to want to replace them?

The both boots are broken, the left side broke about 4 months ago so I am changing the axle, the other one just the boot.

chuckster · #10 02-27-2011, 04:51 PM

Waiting to hear from you Neilrmp. I Hope your task went well. When I did mine a few weeks ago I was surprised at how easy it was and how quickly it went. Only problem was I had the wrong shaft for the drivers side and had to re-install the used shaft. Have the correct shaft now and will replace it soon.