X5M intake filter fitment

[Bodie217]

Today I installed X5M intake filters in my 50i. I had read they are a direct replacement and didn’t expect fitment issues. They certainly fit in the intake box, but getting the holes to line up was a royal PITA. I finally got them to fit with all the elbow grease I could muster, but I cannot imagine that BMW designed the fitment to be so tight.

Anyone else have issues installing X5M intake filters?

[DuSh]

Originally Posted by Bodie217

Today I installed X5M intake filters in my 50i. I had read they are a direct replacement and didn’t expect fitment issues. They certainly fit in the intake box, but getting the holes to line up was a royal PITA. I finally got them to fit with all the elbow grease I could muster, but I cannot imagine that BMW designed the fitment to be to tight.

Anyone else have issues installing X5M intake filters?

Yes sir, I did that too! The trick for me was to wet/oil rubber rings that go around filters - the part that you push in. They went in more easily and allowed me to align mounting hole in the middle. Took me 10-15min, but still wasn't too hard. Yes, the problem is X5M has a bit deeper air box, but otherwise dimensions are same. So it takes a bit of elbow grease, but nothing too hard. Once you close lid and bolt it down - everything looks like it came so oem from factory

http://f15.bimmerpost.com/forums/sho...8#post22668748

[Maverik259]

Ditto

[iconoclast]

yes. i installed bms and oem x5m. the trick is to line up the filters with connecting portion on the lower portion of the box then have them meet like a teepee/triangle then with a pick or very screwdriver align the two holes and leave the pick in there to aim for the screw hole. then push down with one hand using the pick as a guide. once the mounting point reaches the screw hole hold firm and screw in the filters. done.