32 21 231 Replacing (removing and installing) left or right tie rod

Necessary preliminary tasks: 

• Remove TIE ROD END  from swivel bearing
• Remove GAITER  from power steering gear and slide back

Unscrew tie rod with special tool 32 3 160 (socket wrench SW 38) from rack of power steering gear and remove

Tightening torque: see 2AZ in 32 21 STEERING ARMS

Fig 1: Identifying Special Tool 32 3 160 (Socket Wrench SW 38)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Clean rack and check surface for damage (e.g. by corrosion).

Replace O-ring (1).

Grease rack and O-ring (1). Refer to OPERATING FLUIDS .

Fig 2: Identifying O-Ring

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

On replacement, assemble new part with gaiter: 

Determine measurement (A) on old part to simplify following adjustment of front axle

Slacken clamping nut (2)

Screw off tie rod end; if necessary, grip tie rod with open-end wrench

Remove clamping ring (1) and screw off clamping nut (2)

Slide gaiter (4) and ear clamp and band clamp (3) onto tie rod

Slide clamping nut (2) and clamping ring (1) onto tie rod

Screw tie rod end onto tie rod to measurement (A)

Tighten down clamping nut (2)

Tightening torque: see 5AZ in 32 21 STEERING ARMS .

Fig 3: Identifying Slide Gaiter And Band Clamp Onto Tie Rod

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After installation: 

• Perform chassis alignment check (see ALIGNMENT CHECK WITH LOAD UP TO DESIGN POSITION  or ALIGNMENT CHECK WITH RIDE-HEIGHT MEASUREMENT WITHOUT LOAD )
• Carry out STEERING ANGLE SENSOR ADJUSTMENT/ADJUSTMENT FOR ACTIVE FRONT STEERING