[kavadarci]

I did mine today but had to remove the shaft, couldn't get it otherwise.
The shaft is really easy to remove and get access to the drain valve.
I haven't driven the car yet, still in the air for the front\rear differential, transfer case, tranny and brake flush job.

ah yes, transfer case is another similar story, drain plug right there = easy, fill plug some zerman engineer is laughing now saying = gotcha you bastards.

I don't know how to gain access to it except removal of the exhaust.
Why does everything need to be so difficult on these cars? American cars are so easy to work on.

[kamek]

Originally Posted by AWD Addict

I'm familiar with what hte CDV does, I'm more interested in the results of it's replacement (as I've read more about it's complete removal)

Originally Posted by Vegetable

from the results I have read about, people get the same result whether they use a modified CDV or complete removal. I wish i could let you know of my own experience From what I have also read here, you can simply modify the existing CDV.

http://www.e90post.com/forums/showth...t=29828&page=6

Modifying a CDV opens the hole larger, thus bypassing the affects of the CDV. It would yield the same results as not having a CDV there at all.

The only difference between running a modified CDV vs. no CDV is that the modified CDV will retain an unmodified look, in case anyone is worried about the dealer spotting this mod.

So, have your pick. In the end, it really doesn't matter.

I've had the CDV out of my car for 4 years now and recently drove a 2011 6MT 3er with CDV intact, and I couldn't notice a difference. Honestly.

[335xi Kevo]

I do agree, I wonder if the newer cars have a larger diameter hole in their CDV's. For earlier models at least, the cdv really hinders normal clutch engagement resulting in less then favorable shifts. I hated it being there. I got to swap my oil in the transfer case soon, I'll snap a photo with the exact tool on the cdv for everyone then and do another DIY for that job. I tried every trick but the less then favorable method. Removing the mount.....

[Vwgrk1]

It is an AMAZING difference! Guys, this made a world of difference from the second I released the clutch. The 1-2 shift was so smooth. Shifting feels a bit more "logical" now that the connection is much more direct and immediate. Even taking of in 1st is smoother since it is now a much smoother "clutch out" motion.

Here's the catch- since the connection is much more linked to the movement of your foot, you can have a more sudden and abrupt engagement if you modulate the clutch like you did before. The valve made the car slip the clutch; it delayed full engagement. You'll have to reprogram yourself a bit, clutching out a bit slower, like you would in the car you learned to drive stick in.

Bottom line- like many mods, there is a trade off somewhere. You gain more direct control and feel in exchange for having to be more responsible for a smooth shift (again, more so with the A/C running). Totally worth it to me.

[Tim603]

Originally Posted by 335xi Kevo

Uploaded a picture for y'all. Typo in photo: Do not use a socket wrench

If you dont use a socket wrench what are you supposed to use?

[klov335]

I did mine maybe a week ago and didnt feel much difference.. But ya 1-2 just a little bit smoother.. But overall No difference for me.. Can you guys tell me ur story?

[Tim603]

Originally Posted by klov335

I did mine maybe a week ago and didnt feel much difference.. But ya 1-2 just a little bit smoother.. But overall No difference for me.. Can you guys tell me ur story?

Since your car is newer, like they said above, the stock CDV may already be a larger diameter therfore the difference would be minor