Dropping the Gas Tank on a 325e

[jtuner]

I'm in the process of dropping this gas tank, and I can't seem to get the damn rear driveshaft out.. I'm tryin to get the tank out without taking much off.. I guess that's always the goal, but, it seems like i'm either gonna have to take off the rear diff, or drop the front part of the exhaust (head pipe to cat part)
The cat-back is off, as well as the back two heat shields.. I have the four bolts that bolt the DS to the pumpkin off, but I just don't seem to have enough room to pull the back DS off.. Do i have to take off the ENTIRE driveshaft??
if anyone could help, it'd be much appreciated!!Thanks

[Sean]

You could maybe seperate the driveshaft at the center support bearing, but - to be able to make marks correctly, you'll need to remove the entire thing - and you have to remove the heatshield. it's not that tough to remove the driveshaft. You can leave the diff in, just make sure you can get to all the bolts holding the tank in.

Also, drain most of the gas out first - that way it's not as heavy.

[Bimmerfanatik]

You could maybe seperate the driveshaft at the center support bearing, but - to be able to make marks correctly, you'll need to remove the entire thing - and you have to remove the heatshield. it's not that tough to remove the driveshaft. You can leave the diff in, just make sure you can get to all the bolts holding the tank in.

Also, drain most of the gas out first - that way it's not as heavy.

Does it have to be drained completely? What are some tips to avoid blowing up? :) Also, what's the easiest way to drain the gas tank?

[bimmer8604]

theres a drain on the passengerside of the gastank but be careful, it likes to strip easily.

Kyle

[Bimmerfanatik]

theres a drain on the passengerside of the gastank but be careful, it likes to strip easily.

Kyle

nice, thanks for the heads up and the info.

The diff should come out first then? I'm dropping it anyways...

For the gas tank, just drain and unbolt?

[bimmer8604]

unbolt and unplug, dont forget you have some stuff on the topside to attend to, its all under the black cover under your seat.

Kyle

[Bimmerfanatik]

unbolt and unplug, dont forget you have some stuff on the topside to attend to, its all under the black cover under your seat.

Kyle

10-4 good buddy...sounds easy. Now to figure out the diff....