[dude04]

UPDATE 19/03/2015
after some research, digging, and measuring i can share the following with you:
1. the pinion nut is 64.2mm.
2. an ideal tool for this is a socket (as i suggest below, if you can find them) or even better a slugging spanner. a spanner is better as it allows you access to the spline, whereas a socket doesn't. i bought a slugging spanner from my local tools shop, it was, and needs to be, 12 point.
3. my diff builder was able to find an appropriate 'tool' to fit onto the spline. the spline is 27.6mm in diameter with 34 spline. by chance, we were able to use gears (manual gearbox gears) from a vw polo. my diff builder says any vw should work. he welded a bar onto said gear and will use to hold the spline in place while turning the slugging spanner to break the pinion nut

********************************
hi all,

can anybody help me identify what size socket i will need to remove my pinion nut?

i'm not exactly sure how i should be measuring it, but as you can see in the picture, i measured peak-to-peak in millimeters

your assistance appreciated

thanks

[GMWNashville]

There is a special tool used to tighten/loosen that nut and another to hold the input shaft itself

[dude04]

sounds great
do you know where it can be bought?

[MFactory]

It's not a part that BMW offers unfortunately, and can only be purchased from the BMW service department via the service manager.

[serotoninsteve]

Perhaps a big Oilfilter socket fits or can be modified to fit!?
How do all the other people do it who purchase the ring'n pinion option?
Anyone?

[dude04]

for your information i think i've found the right socket
i don't know the exact size, i need to measure parallel flat to parallel flat (whereas i've measured peak to peak in my original photo)

nevertheless it should be one of these:


my diff builder intends on boring-out the socket and welding a bar to the outside of it. this way he can hold the spline and turn the nut.

[serotoninsteve]

Thanks,

sounds good.

Keep us updated once you have the right measure! 👍

[dude04]

updated first post with findings for anybody undertaking this job! good luck

[serotoninsteve]

Great info!

By sludging spanner do you mean a simple 12 point ring spanner?
Did you use a 65mm one?

Thanks

[JamesM3M5]

Here is the TIS with tool numbers. You will have to call the dealer parts department to order them. This includes the large 12-point socket, the spline holding socket, and the breaker bar.

You MUST make sure you properly retighten the large 12-point nut. The input bearing preload is set by that nut, and improper preload WILL lead to noise or premature bearing failure.

[JamesM3M5]

33 5 050 = 83 30 0 495 552
33 5 060 = 83 30 0 495 553
33 5 070 = 83 30 0 495 554

[serotoninsteve]

Perfect James!

Thanks

[Bavarian Tech]

You'll need a 3/4 LONG breaker bar if your going to use the BMW input shaft socket

[amr_e90]

I got one I can sell u lmk?

[jpsanfor]

Originally Posted by amr_e90

I got one I can sell u lmk?

Still available by chance? Or does anyone have any idea what size the nut ends up being?

[jjjccc]

Is this same size tool needed for 335i 2014 N55 engine?

[srey]

Originally Posted by jjjccc

Is this same size tool needed for 335i 2014 N55 engine?

Possibly. You should probably try the F30 forum, though.

[jjjccc]

Originally Posted by srey

Possibly. You should probably try the F30 forum, though.

this in only thread i found on this so can anyone tell me will it fit f30?