Raising the rear with floor jack under the rear diff
 

Do you guys raise the rear with a floor jack under the differential ? I do that on my e39 and was wondering if the diff for e53 is able to support it.

Pelicanparts show that it's okay but I don't trust the site..




https://www.facebook.com/Bmw-e53-2508322126058762/

I've done it I didn't feel it was pushing anything but it's 3200# and it was a little too much for a 1.5T jack. I would like to see what other people say. Usually I lift from the rear lower arm so I don't have to stretch out the spring before getting lift off. 1-2 pumps and I can change a tire


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I would use the jack pads, you can use the diff, I have, but if your jack isn't perfectly on there the way the cover sits on the diff you can "nudge" it out of alignment and it will drip and fry your ring and pinion... true story... and an expensive lesson.

Raising the rear with floor jack under the rear diff
 

That's some sage advice. I use a block of wood to even out pressure but I will check my pumpkin for leaks and make sure I didn't create a provlem

The Jack pads are not convenient when you want to lift both sides compared to a center lift.

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I would not use the rear differential to lift the X. The diff is made from aluminum with fins integrated into the design to help in cooling. You can break off the fins if you are not careful.

From BMW documentation...take note of the warning...it's the diff's COVER that should NOT be used...and I distinctly detect that care should be given as to some type of protection between the lift and vehicle's body since it says to check condition of "rubber" contact points:

I've used the rear subframe to jack the rear end. It is right behind the diff and very narrow..

I've always used the diff to lift the rear of my X5, E39 and E92. Never a problem. Of course, I'm always very careful not to place the jack anywhere near the diff cover, as QSilver has pointed out above. I also make sure it's centered on the diff. One has to be very careful in jack placement on the diff - I will keep inspecting and repositioning the jack until it's in a perfect position, and then only start lifting the vehicle when I'm satisfied.

The official word is "yes you can" thanks Q7 for finding that gem. I have a rubber pad on my jack but it is so flat i like to put a piece of wood on top that will crush into a perfect mate with the differential in this case. Also the lift point in the front is so flush I put a block of wood to go up inside so the Jack doesn't push on the aluminum plate. Using wood vs. metal allows it to conform to the angle and makes a very even pressure. I've been wanting to get a hockey puck and cut it down so I wouldn't have to find a fresh piece of wood.

I jack mine with the rear dif all the time. No problems. Use a rubber or wood pad to protect the aluminum fins.