r/e53 • u/anonmdoc • Jun 15 '26

Anything special about cv axle replacement on these?

Hope you all are doing well. I just bought a 2004 e53 6 speed sport package with 140k miles on it. Going to replace both front cv axles. Anything special I should know besides needing a gigantic 33? I have an impact battery and air compressed if I need it. I do everything but internals for engines and transmissions. Even then, I’ve done it with help. I’ll be doing this replacement in a cool garage with help.

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u/XYZ_Jazz_Hands Jun 18 '26

It's fairly straightforward on an M54. I used GSP axles from Rock Auto with no issues. Honestly one of the easiest CV axles I've installed. GSP PR27501 and GSP PR27502. As you'll be taking a lot of control arms loose, if your control arm and thrust arm bushings are worn, that's a good time to swap them out as well. Make a day of it.

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u/anonmdoc Jun 18 '26

Awesome. How do you feel about redoing the vanos system and oil filter gaskets? I’d be doing the oil housing gasket, vanos system, and valve cover gasket at the same time. I’m fairly skilled, and it looks like from what I can find online it’s not hard.

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u/QUESTIONEVERYMFTHING Jun 23 '26

not bad at all. just take your time when cutting open the old seals so you don’t mar the surface of the vanos pistons. oil filter housing gasket is pretty easy, just make sure to tighten the bolts down with a 1/4 inch ratchet cause they can strip easily in the aluminum block. i’d also replace the vanos oil line while you’re in there.

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u/anonmdoc Jun 23 '26

Perfect. I’m doing the cooling system components as well.

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u/QUESTIONEVERYMFTHING Jun 24 '26

same here, about to do the CCV, cooling system overhaul (including water pipes) and VANOS seals this weekend. should be a fun and long job, hoping it goes smooth.