Axle Carrier Rubber Mounts: Removal

CAUTION: Pull retainer off air supply unit to ensure that accidental feedback control of the system cannot occur.

Unfasten exhaust system from rear support.
Unfasten handbrake Bowden cable from brackets. See 51 16 200 REMOVING AND INSTALLING ODDMENTS TRAY in BRAKES.
Remove connector from ride height sensor if necessary.
Remove left and right trim panels. See Figure.
Remove wheels. See 36 10 300 REMOVING OR INSTALLING FRONT OR REAR WHEEL
Support rear axle with workshop hoist. Unscrew left and right screws (1) and lower rear axle carrier approximately 1.6-1.8" (40-45 mm). See Figure.
Prepare special tool (33 4 140/151/154/155). Fit special tool (33 4 140) to recesses in rubber mount. See Fig 1.

CAUTION: Do not point air jet at fuel tank.

Heat axle carrier with an industrial hot air blower with maximum outlet temperature of 1112° F (600° C). Heat bearing bush for approximately 2 minutes. Pull out rubber mount.

Fig 1: Fitting Special Tool To Rubber Mount

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.