Yet another front drive shaft post.

[galcala]

So a couple of weeks ago I got stranded in the middle of an intersection with the front drive shaft making that clanking noise a lot of you are familiar with. Needless to say I was pretty bummed thinking it was something wrong with the transmission. work has been pretty heavy so I hadnt had the time to do anything till yesterday. I pulled the transfer case off, with much help from several posts on this site (thanks all btw) and sure enough the front drive shaft was toast, which on the one hand dont have to shell out tons of cash for a trans, but there are some concerns. one thing that has me thinking is that If the front quits working for obvious reasons wouldnt you still have power to the rear? would I need to rebuild the transfercase? or can I just get away with replacing the driveshaft. Note: the little metal donut cover on the tcase that goes over the front output shaft is loose.

Thanks.

[fmugur]

check this post it might clarify it for you. I had the same question a while back. It looks like the 2004 models and up can do that with a trick.
http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...nt-wheels.html

[JCL]

The pre x-drive transfer case is open, so if there is no traction on one side the other side won't drive. No 2wd option. From 2004 onwards the transfer case has clutch packs that allow for variable torque split between front and rear. All the torque can be sent to the axle with traction.

Look for posts by racemalibu572. Here is one thread:

http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...sfer-case.html

[galcala]

Thanks, this definitely helps, just wasnt too sure of how the transfer case worked

[galcala]

So After close inspection the Transfer case is in pretty decent shape other than the front output shaft seal leaking and the dust shield off. I would like to replace it since the tc is already out, Would I have to take the tc apart or can the seals be changed without having to pop it open?

[nikpottala]

Seals can be replaced without opening the tc. If it has any miles on it, I'd suggest replacing the chain. Once you've got it out, it's relatively straight forward.

I have mine on the bench at the present time replacing seals & chain.

[galcala]

Thanks, I guess I might as well do it since its out already. Any suggestions on where to purchase the seals and chain for a moderate price?

[nikpottala]

I purchased my seals and chain from cobratransmission.com. They seemed reasonable and they shipped things promptly.

[fmugur]

I am sure he meant Automatic, Standard Transmission and Transfer Case Rebuild Kits, Cobra Transmission Parts 1-800-293-1848. No 's' at the end.

[galcala]

Alright so I finally got the drive shaft delivered and in my hands, I will get the beast back on the road on Wednesday(day off) dammit!