Checking Function Of Front Axle Differential & Transfer Case
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 7 other vehicles, including the 2006 BMW X5, 2005 BMW X5, 2004 BMW X5, 2003 BMW X5, and 2002 BMW X5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- To check function of transfer case, carry out following tasks:
- Place vehicle on lifting platform.
- Shift transmission to neutral. (Automatic: position "N").
- Raise vehicle, wheels must spin freely.
- Apply handbrake.
- Both front wheels rotate uniformly in one direction.
- If spinning of both front wheels in one direction is not possible, check front axle differential:
- Remove front propeller shaft. See PROPELLER SHAFTS.
- Check front axle differential for ease of movement.
- On blockable front axle differential only, replace this differential. See DIFFERENTIAL.
- Check transfer case:
- Release handbrake.
- Rotate both drive shafts of transfer case against each other.
- If turning of both drive shafts are not possible, replace transfer case.
- If front wheels can spin, check transfer case for shaft failure. Remove transfer case. See TRANSFER CASE - REMOVAL & INSTALLATION . Withdraw drive shaft and check for fracture. If shaft is fractured, replace drive shaft.
- If front wheels can spin, also check front axle differential and transfer case. Install drive shaft. Block drive shaft by hand. Rotate output shaft to final drive. If output shaft to front axle does not turn, replace transfer case. Replace radial shaft seal for output front axle output. See RADIAL SHAFT SEAL FOR FRONT AXLE OUTPUT .