31 12 080 Removing And Installing/Replacing Both Tension Struts

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 BMW 550i and 2006 BMW 550i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools required:

31 2 230 SOCKET

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove front wheels
Remove FRONT ASSEMBLY UNDERSIDE PROTECTION
If necessary, remove steering gear cover on both sides
If necessary, remove wheel suspension cover
Remove STABILIZER LINKS FROM STABILIZER
Remove CONTROL ARM FROM SWIVEL BEARING

Release nut (1) and remove bolt (3).

Installation:

Replace self-locking nut.

Tighten bolt connection in NORMAL POSITION .

Tightening torque 31 12 1AZ . See 31 12 CONTROL ARMS AND STRUTS .

Slacken nut (2).

Installation:

Keep tension strut to swivel bearing connection clean and free from oil and grease.

Replace self-locking nut.

Tightening torque 31 12 19AZ . See 31 12 CONTROL ARMS AND STRUTS .

Fig 1: Identifying Bolt And Nuts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Support swivel bearing with workshop jack and a suitable mounting.

Release nut and expand swivel bearing with special tool 31 2 230

Lower swivel bearing approx. 2.5 cm and remove tension strut.

Installation:

Keep press fit of swivel gearing and spring strut in lower area clean and free from oil and grease.

Spread swivel bearing with special tool 31 2 230 , align by means of gap to web on back of spring strut and raise as far as it will go.

Tightening torque 31 31 3AZ . See 31 31 SPRING STRUTS .

Fig 2: Identifying Special Tool (31 2 230)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.