Removing Bmw 70X5 Protective Pan: A Step-By-Step Guide

If you're looking to remove the protective pan from your BMW 70x5, you may be in for a challenging task. While it is possible to do it yourself, it is a complex process that requires mechanical knowledge and skills. The protective pan, also known as the engine splash shield or belly pan, is located underneath the vehicle and serves to protect the engine and other components from water, dirt, and debris.

To remove the protective pan, you will need to jack up the front of the vehicle and support it safely. You will also need a set of sockets (8mm, 10mm, 16mm) and a Phillips head screwdriver. The process involves removing multiple fasteners of different sizes. It is important to note that when removing the reinforcement plate, the fasteners must be replaced, as they are not reusable. Additionally, it is crucial to pay attention to the order of splash shield installation to ensure proper reassembly.

Some people choose to remove the protective pan to gain easier access to the underside of the engine for maintenance or repairs. However, it is not recommended to drive the vehicle without the protective pan, as it can affect aerodynamics, fuel efficiency, and the protection of vital components.

Removing the engine splash shield

To remove the engine splash shield of a BMW 70x5, you will need to jack up and support the front of your vehicle. You can refer to Pelican Parts' article on jacking up your specific vehicle model.

Once the vehicle is safely supported, put on your safety glasses and work under the vehicle to remove the engine splash shield. Using a 10mm socket, remove the three fasteners. Then, remove the eleven 8mm splash shield fasteners.

After that, remove the engine splash shield by feeding it out of the front bumper as you slide it backward. Make sure to note the installation position for reinstallation.

The process for removing the engine splash shield is similar across different BMW models, including the E53, E90, and E83. However, the specific tools and fasteners required may vary, so it is important to consult model-specific instructions.

• Be prepared with different-sized sockets and wrenches, as the sizes of the nuts and bolts may differ from those mentioned in this guide.
• Always protect your eyes, hands, and body from fluids, dust, and debris while working on your vehicle.
• If working with the electrical system, disconnect the battery before beginning.
• Catch fluids in appropriate containers and properly dispose of any fluid waste.
• Recycle parts, packaging, and fluids when possible.
• If you feel the task is beyond your ability, do not attempt it.

Removing the reinforcement plate

The reinforcement plate adds stiffness to the vehicle chassis and must be in place in the event of a crash. To remove the reinforcement plate, you will need a set of sockets (8mm, 10mm, 16mm) and a Phillips head screwdriver.

First, jack up the front of the vehicle and support it safely. You will need to wear safety glasses while working under the car.

There are six 16mm fasteners holding the reinforcement plate in place. Two are at the front, and the remaining four bolt through the sway bar. When removing the final fasteners, be sure to support the plate from below so it does not crash down.

Remove the bolt while holding the nut still from above the reinforcement plate. Discard the old fasteners as they are not reusable. BMW states that the reinforcement plate should not be driven without, so be sure to replace it when you are finished.

When installing the new reinforcement plate, torque the new splash shield fasteners to 56 Nm (41 ft-lb). Once you've initially torqued them, tighten the fasteners an additional 90 degrees.

Complementary Modifications and Warnings

When removing the reinforcement plate, you will have access to the oil drain. If you are removing the plate to change the oil, be sure to have a container to catch the oil.

The reinforcement plate also has a foam pad on top, which absorbs oil. If this is worn out, you will need to replace it.

Removing the air box

To remove the air box from a BMW, you will need to gather the following tools:

• 10mm and 8mm socket and wrench
• 13mm, 16mm, and 17mm box wrenches
• 13mm and 16mm socket and socket extension
• Flathead screwdriver
• Torx screwdriver
• Anti-sieze paste

First, remove the engine air filter and MAF sensor housing. Loosen the intake duct hose clamp at the throttle assembly with a 3/16 flathead screwdriver. Remove the air filter housing mounting screw with a 10mm socket or box wrench. Disconnect the vent tube and loosen the air intake duct clamp with a flathead screwdriver.

Next, remove the mass air flow sensor by spreading open the metal clips and disconnecting the harness connector. You can now pull the whole air box up and forward towards the front of the car.

To remove the air intake box, you will need to disconnect the battery positive terminal and remove the mass-air filter housing. Undo the fan clutch nut and apply clockwise force to each tensioner to remove the drive belts. Disconnect the power and rectangular connector in the back of the alternator.

Now, you can remove the two alternator bolts and the power steering reservoir bracket bolts. Wiggle the unclamped plastic air duct off the bottom back of the alternator and wiggle the alternator out.

Finally, to remove the lower mechanical air conditioning belt tensioner, turn the 16mm molded nut clockwise until the tabs line up. Slip a spare allen wrench into the tabs to lock them in place, then remove the tensioner with a 13mm box wrench on a 3-inch extension.

To finish, mark the tensioner and safely remove the spare allen wrench.

Removing the oil pan gasket

This guide will take you through the process of removing the oil pan gasket on a BMW 70x5. Please note that this is a complex job that may be beyond the skill level of some mechanics. It is also a messy job, so be sure to wear appropriate protective clothing.

Step 1: Detect the oil leak

Before beginning any work, it is important to confirm that the oil pan gasket is the source of the leak. Begin by cleaning the engine with a degreaser and then follow the trail of any external oil to its highest point. If the evidence leads to the top of the oil pan, then further work will be required.

Step 2: Gather tools and materials

This job will require a range of tools and materials, including:

• A service manual for your vehicle
• A new oil pan gasket (name-brand gaskets come with any necessary sealants)
• A jack and jack stands
• An engine hoist
• A range of sockets and wrenches, including torx and e-torx sockets
• A sharp putty knife or gasket scraper
• Gasket sealant
• Thread sealer
• Engine oil

Step 3: Prepare the vehicle

Drain the oil from the vehicle and remove the splash shield and bellhousing cover. Depending on your vehicle, you may also need to detach other accessories such as the exhaust manifold support and air-conditioning bracketry.

Step 4: Remove the oil pan

The oil pan is typically held in place by a series of bolts. Identify all bolt locations with the help of your service manual and remove them. Some bolts may be difficult to access and will require an open-ended box wrench or a combination of extensions and U-joints. Once all bolts are removed, the pan can be dropped. If necessary, tap it lightly with a mallet to break the seal.

Step 5: Clean and inspect the oil pan

Before reinstalling the oil pan, scrape off any gasket residue and clean all sealing surfaces with a solvent. Also, clean the inside of the oil pan and inspect it for cracks.

Step 6: Install the new gasket

Position the new gasket on the oil pan, following the instructions provided. Some gaskets may need to be held in position with a small amount of grease.

Step 7: Reattach the oil pan

Use thread sealer on the bolts, if specified, and then torque them to the specified tension in a spiral pattern, beginning in the center. Reattach any accessory brackets and refill the crankcase with oil.

Step 8: Test the repair

Start the engine and inspect for leaks. If oil is still leaking from the oil pan, further investigation and repair may be required.

Removing the plastic engine cover

The plastic engine cover can be removed in a few simple steps. The first step is to locate the three clips/tabs holding the cover in place. These can be found by reaching in from the kidney grill opening at the top. Use your fingers to push and unlock these tabs.

The second step is to focus on the air intake duct, which consists of two parts: the upper and lower. These are connected by four clips, two on each side. Using a flathead screwdriver, carefully unclip these to free the air intake duct.

Now, you can lift the front end of the plastic engine cover straight up and then move the cover towards you to remove it. It is a simple process, and you won't break anything if you follow these steps carefully.

Additional Information

The plastic engine cover is also known as the "Sound Protection Cap" and is located under the bonnet/hood of the car. Its purpose is to improve the aerodynamics of the vehicle and reduce wind resistance, which can help with fuel efficiency. Removing the cover will not affect the cooling of the engine but is done to identify leaks or to detail the engine.

It is important to note that removing the plastic engine cover exposes the engine to potential damage from road debris, so it is not recommended to drive the vehicle without it for an extended period.

Frequently asked questions