The 6-cylinder engine features a 1-piece crankshaft harmonic balancer integrated with the hub. Begin by raising the front of the vehicle and ensuring it is stable and well supported using a professional automotive lift or jack stands, as a floor jack does not provide adequate support. Remove the splash guard located under the engine. Once the engine is fully cooled, utilize BMW special tools 11 5 050 and 11 5 040 to loosen and detach the cooling fan and clutch from the coolant pump, noting that the 32 mm cooling fan nut has left-hand threads. If necessary, remove the fan cowl from the radiator. Mark the direction of rotation on the engine accessory belts and remove them. Bolt together BMW special tools 11 8 190 and 11 8 200, inserting the fingers of tool 11 8 200 into the harmonic balancer openings to counterhold the harmonic balancer hub while loosening the mounting bolt. Ensure an assistant holds the special tool; if unavailable, rest the handle on the front subframe, protecting it with a piece of wood. Avoid using the flywheel locking tool to hold the crankshaft stationary during this process. Remove and discard the harmonic balancer mounting bolt, then pull off the harmonic balancer using BMW special tools 11 8 210 and 11 8 200, taking care not to damage the radiator. If using a different puller, be cautious to avoid damaging the crankshaft threads. Inspect the front crankshaft seal for leaks, and for seal replacement, consult the lubrication system guidelines. When reinstalling, align the harmonic balancer groove with the crankshaft woodruff key, and insert a new mounting bolt and washer, ensuring to inspect the woodruff key for damage and replace it if necessary. Use BMW special tools 11 8 190 and 11 8 200 to counterhold the harmonic balancer while tightening the mounting bolt, and refrain from using the flywheel locking tool for this purpose, opting only for the recommended special tools or their equivalents for counterholding the pulley.
