Replacing the torque converter seal?

2014 BMW X5
82,000 MILES • 6 CYL • TURBO • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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BHAMDOC1973
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I want to change the seal behind the torque converter since the motor is out and the transmission has 157k. Is it called the transmission main shaft seal, torque converter seal or something else? I don't see a clear path when looking, if you can get me a part number that would be great.
Oct 15, 2024 at 4:38 PM
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CANNON1349
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Hello,

It is called the radial shaft seal and is fairly straight forward if the motor is out. However, it is strongly suggested that you replace the bolts for the centering plate because they have a seal on them, and they are also common leakage points. I recommend using part #24277604965 from FCP Euro as it is a BMW repair kit for this situation. Please refer to the torque specs and diagram attached as well.

William
Oct 15, 2024 at 7:39 PM
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BHAMDOC1973
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Geez. All of these bolts are behind the torque converter?
Oct 15, 2024 at 7:48 PM
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CANNON1349
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Yes there are 14 bolts and the radial shaft seal behind the converter.

William
Oct 15, 2024 at 7:49 PM
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BHAMDOC1973
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Oh. I am talking about the one in the center where the shaft comes out. I didn't know about the radial one.
Oct 15, 2024 at 7:56 PM
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CANNON1349
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Yep, that's the one. BMW calls that the radial shaft seal which is also the input shaft seal. It is included in the kit part # I included.
Oct 15, 2024 at 7:59 PM
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BHAMDOC1973
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Unfortunately, they are out of stock for a while but when i google the part number it only shows the seal, the kit with the bolts is available but none of them say BMW F15 which is my x5, most have the older style BMWs.
Oct 16, 2024 at 6:17 AM
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BHAMDOC1973
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I found it elsewhere. Will fluid be gushing out when i remove the plate?
Oct 16, 2024 at 9:09 AM
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CANNON1349
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Hello,

I doubt it. That plate is for centering but the bolts have their own seals so that would be where fluid comes from. Of course, removing the main seal will present some fluid. If you haven't drained the transmission already you should probably do so.

Thanks,
William
Oct 16, 2024 at 4:38 PM
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BHAMDOC1973
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I got the kit but it has everything but i dont see a big seal. Isnt there a large seal that goes the width of the bolts? Like a large diameter seal? I have the bolts with seals and the center black seat that goes in the center.
Oct 22, 2024 at 6:17 AM
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CANNON1349
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Hello,

If you mean a seal for the centering plate then no, there should not be a seal for that. The seals on the bolts will do the job and are actually a common leak point. The plate is just for centering everything.
Oct 22, 2024 at 6:34 AM
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BHAMDOC1973
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Oh I see. Do you recommend I remove a bolt and insert a new one, one by one this way i don't mess up the centering? Also, remove the center shaft seal first or remove all bolts then remove the plate along with the seal?
Oct 22, 2024 at 8:06 AM
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CANNON1349
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Yes, the procedure mentions replacing one screw at a time. You should be able to get the center seal out without removing the plate.

William
Oct 22, 2024 at 10:00 AM
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BHAMDOC1973
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Oh i missed that. These degrees turning are scary. Turning any bolt is scary of breaking a bolt. I did the oil pan and did that but didn't get to 90, it feels tight and i don't want to break one.
Oct 22, 2024 at 11:29 AM
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CANNON1349
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Yes it can be very nerve wracking but it's best to use a torque wrench with angle measuring capabilities. At the same time, the torque specs of 10Nm is pretty much hand tight. If a torque wrench is not available then use a small 1/4" ratchet to avoid over tightening. You would really have to use some effort to overtighten with a small ratchet.

William
Oct 23, 2024 at 7:18 PM