DIY Front Differential Fluid Change Complete

[Whammy]

Nice write-up!

[robnitro]

You don't have to drop the pan twice. Second time just a drain and fill. 2 times within a short period is good because you only get out about 70% of the fluid. The tc holds the rest.

[Kostyan]

Originally Posted by stltri

Was reading some info on the ISTA+ regarding recommended fluids for the differentials. I know different DIY'ers have used different kinds. But I was curious about any drawbacks to using cheaper alternatives over the more expensive fluids recommended by BMW (for e70 N55 motor, per ISTA+ updated 2016) before I tackle this DIY:

1. Front differential: Hypoid Axle Oil G2 (BMW part no. 83-22-2-413-511)

2. Rear differential: Final-Drive Gear Oil Saf-Xo 832514 (BMW part no. 33-11-7-695-240)

3. Transfer case: Transfer Case Fluid - DTF 1 (SAE 75W GL-4) (BMW part no. 83-22-2-409-710)

Called SilverSpring BMW GetBMWparts counter...

You got the transfer case fluid part # right, and that is the only fluid to use. I was told need only 1 500ml container

Front differential - was told to use part 83 22 2413511 , need 1.25l via two $45 containers
Rear differential - was told to use part 83 22 22 95532 , same capacity, about the same 2 x $45




Called Northwest BMW parts counter and they would not confirm/give out part #s over the phone. I am a bit confused as last time these fluids did not cost me $300 and can't recall where/what/how much I bought.....

[Kostyan]

ok 2 yrs ago I was given advice by GetBMWParts via email to use 83 22 22 95532 fluid for both front and rear differential, which I had followed. Hope I did not f&&& my front diff by running rear diff fluid.....

[crystalworks]

Both diffs can take the same fluid in the E53. Just looked up the part number for the E70 as I ordered fluid for the wife's 2010 x35d. Part number 83222365987 and is the same for the front and the rear.

[Kostyan]

Originally Posted by crystalworks

Both diffs can take the same fluid in the E53. Just looked up the part number for the E70 as I ordered fluid for the wife's 2010 x35d. Part number 83222365987 and is the same for the front and the rear.

what is the source of the info that both front and rear diffs can run the same fluid?


Can BMW spec different fluids for 2010 vs 2012?


researched www.newtis.info but it is quite confusing and does not indicate how much fluid each diff holds.

[josiahg52]

Originally Posted by Kostyan

what is the source of the info that both front and rear diffs can run the same fluid?


Can BMW spec different fluids for 2010 vs 2012?


researched www.newtis.info but it is quite confusing and does not indicate how much fluid each diff holds.

Sure they could. Even among different models in the same year.

[crystalworks]

Originally Posted by Kostyan

what is the source of the info that both front and rear diffs can run the same fluid?

I used BMW Parts Catalog. It's basically a more modern version looking version (could just be I've been using it for more modern chassis) of realOEM. I was at the dealer the other day buying small stuff for a recently acquired E61 and it was the same diagrams they had.

It is entirely possible that the fluid spec'd for 2010 vs 2012 is different. Though I would be surprised if it was.

[Kostyan]

Originally Posted by crystalworks

I used BMW Parts Catalog. It's basically a more modern version looking version (could just be I've been using it for more modern chassis) of realOEM. I was at the dealer the other day buying small stuff for a recently acquired E61 and it was the same diagrams they had.

It is entirely possible that the fluid spec'd for 2010 vs 2012 is different. Though I would be surprised if it was.

I see that it indicates front and rear diffs using the same fluid part 83 22 2 295 532...guess will go with that. But how much fill quantity? It says 1.5L for each diff, is that accurate?

[crystalworks]

Originally Posted by Kostyan

I see that it indicates front and rear diffs using the same fluid part 83 22 2 295 532...guess will go with that. But how much fill quantity? It says 1.5L for each diff, is that accurate?

Sorry, no answer to the fill quantities. But I hope that's accurate. I ordered 3L for the wife's diesel.