Removing the steering shaft seal

NOTE: RISK OF DAMAGE
Damage to steering column switch cluster (SZL).
The steering column switch cluster (SZL) or the coil spring cassette can be damaged by twisting the steering wheel if the lower steering shaft (or the universal joint) is separated from the steering gear or the steering column.

After separating the lower steering shaft (or the universal joint) from the steering gear or from the steering column, secure the steering wheel against twisting.

Preliminary work

Remove rear UNDERBODY PROTECTION .
Remove the STIFFENING PLATE .
Remove the lower steering shaft UNIVERSAL JOINT .

If installed:
Loosen screw (1).

Loosen nut (2).

Feed out cover of steering shaft seal (3) and remove.

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Unscrew the nuts (arrows).
Remove steering shaft seal (1).

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.