Should I Change Rear Main Seal?

LA_BOOSTED · 06-03-2021, 12:00 PM

Currently changing clutch/flywheel on 68k mile 07 N54. Got to the main seal, and looks really clean -- although have some oil near the flywheel bolts (see pics).

I don't want that oil to get on the new clutch if I have a leaky main seal OR have this seal leak in another 30k.

Should I change the rear main seal while I'm in here? I hear horror stories on creating leaks from improper installation. Also, thoughts on where this oil coming from near the flywheel bolts?

stewbets · 06-03-2021, 12:34 PM

That's a tough call on the RMS. Flip a coin. It looks like your DMFW is leaking some of its grease out. I think a little leakage is normal. You're probably fine there.

LA_BOOSTED · 06-03-2021, 12:54 PM

Ty for reply! I'd rather not replace RMS... Have Oil catch can, and just got upgraded PCV to hopefully relieve some of the pressure.

I thought this might be the DMFW leaking grease... thank you for confirming

06-03-2021, 12:00 PM	#1
LA_BOOSTED Private First Class 3 Rep 100 Posts Drives: 07 E92 335i Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Los Angeles iTrader: (0) Garage List 2007 BMW 335i [0.00]	Should I Change Rear Main Seal? Currently changing clutch/flywheel on 68k mile 07 N54. Got to the main seal, and looks really clean -- although have some oil near the flywheel bolts (see pics). I don't want that oil to get on the new clutch if I have a leaky main seal OR have this seal leak in another 30k. Should I change the rear main seal while I'm in here? I hear horror stories on creating leaks from improper installation. Also, thoughts on where this oil coming from near the flywheel bolts? Attached Images
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06-03-2021, 12:34 PM	#2
stewbets Captain 454 Rep 823 Posts Drives: '08 335xi, '04 545i Join Date: Sep 2019 Location: Dayton, OH iTrader: (0)	That's a tough call on the RMS. Flip a coin. It looks like your DMFW is leaking some of its grease out. I think a little leakage is normal. You're probably fine there. __________________ 2008 335xi 6MT - 16T China Turbskies - eBay FMIC, DP & CP - VRSF Inlets - SSR DCI's - Walbro 450 LPFP - RFP e85 Tune
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06-03-2021, 12:54 PM	#3
LA_BOOSTED Private First Class 3 Rep 100 Posts Drives: 07 E92 335i Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Los Angeles iTrader: (0) Garage List 2007 BMW 335i [0.00]	Ty for reply! I'd rather not replace RMS... Have Oil catch can, and just got upgraded PCV to hopefully relieve some of the pressure. I thought this might be the DMFW leaking grease... thank you for confirming
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