Removal & Installation

Release nuts and expansion rivets. Remove luggage compartment trim. For left side, see Fig 1. For right side, see Fig 2.
Support wheel carrier with workshop hoist. The brake hose must not be exposed to traction loads. Unscrew nuts for shock absorber support on body. See Fig 3.
Release shock absorber from swinging arm. If necessary, force off swinging arm with wooden wedge and remove. See Fig 4.
Brace piston rod with ring spanner and unfasten nut. Remove thrust bearing.
To install, reverse removal procedure. Replace self-locking nuts and tighten to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .
When installing shock absorber to swinging arm, insert bush into bore of swinging arm. Tighten to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .
Replace self-locking nuts for shock absorber support on body and tighten to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .
Replace expansion rivets for luggage compartment trim.

Fig 1: Removing Luggage Compartment Trim On Left

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Fig 2: Removing Luggage Compartment Trim On Right

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Fig 3: Locating Shock Absorber Support Nuts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Fig 4: Releasing Shock Absorber

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.