[Rodie]

Hi All -- Hoping someone could help me as I'm considering a DIY on replacing the transmission oil cooler on a 2011 328 xDrive.

The part number I'm replacing is 17217551647 and I also purchased the transmission line disconnect tool to hopefully make this easier.

There are two connections for coolant (in/out) and two connections for the transmission (in/out).

Assuming I bleed the coolant and remove the pressure there, do I need to actually drain it all out and replace it (I just did this recently so all of the coolant is fresh)?

Similarly, when I disconnect the transmission lines -- am I going to get fluid everywhere?

In short -- I'm hoping to get them side by side (old and new) and move the hoses quickly from one to the other. Anyone know if this will work? I'm not crazy about draining the transmission or even know if I can top it off easily in my garage.....

Any comments appreciated before I get myself into trouble!

Thanks,
Rodie

[RayLivingston]

You do not have to drain the trans, but some oil will spill out. A fair amount of coolant will spill out as well, so either catch it, so you can put it back in, or drain the coolant before you start.