Axle Shafts (Front): Removal
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 BMW X5, 2001 BMW X5, and 2000 BMW X5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Remove reinforcement plate by removing bolts (1, 2). See Fig 1 .
- Remove engine underguard at front.
- Remove front wheel.
- Open connector housing for ABS pulse generator, pull plug connector out of bracket and disconnect. See Fig 2 .
- Release hexagon socket head cap screw (1), pull cable out of mounting on spring strut, and pull ABS pulse generator out. See Fig 3 .
- Unscrew bolts (1), remove brake caliper and tie back. It is not necessary to remove brake hose. See Fig 4 .
- Force steering tie rod off swivel bearing with special tool (32 3 090). See Fig 5 .
- Unfasten screws and remove tension strut with guide joint from swivel bearing. See Fig 6 .
- If guide joint is firmly seated, screw on nut a few turns so that guide joint does not slip off unchecked when forced off. Screw special tool 33 4 205 onto taper pin and drive out with special tool (33 4 200). See Fig 7 .
- Press guide joint with special tool (31 2 240) out of tension strut. See Fig 8 .
- Unfasten nut and press control arm off swivel bearing with special tool (31 2 240). See Fig 9 .
- Press on brake and release collar nut on axle shaft. See Figure .
- Screw on special tools (33 2 111/116/117/150) with 5 wheel studs (1) and press axle shaft out of drive flange. Grip with tire iron (2). See Fig 10 .
- Tilt swivel bearing to one side.
- Press axle shaft with special tool (31 5 110) out of front axle differential and remove. See Fig 11 .