31 12 026 Removing and installing/replacing guide joint in swivel bearing

Special tools required: 

• 31 2 240 PULLER
• 33 4 200 TOOL KIT / STRIKER FIXTURE
• 33 4 205  , see 33 4 200 TOOL KIT / STRIKER FIXTURE

Necessary preliminary tasks: 

• Remove front wheels, see 36 10 300 REMOVING OR INSTALLING FRONT OR REAR WHEEL .

Slacken nut (1), grip if necessary.

Release screws (2).

Remove tension strut with guide joint from swivel bearing.

Installation: 

Recondition thread in swivel bearing.

Keep recess for guide joint, bore in tension strut and guide joint journal clean and free from grease.

Replace screws.

Tightening torque: 31 12 21AZ, see 31 12 CONTROL ARMS AND STRUTS .

Replace self-locking nut.

Tightening torque: 31 12 20AZ, see 31 12 CONTROL ARMS AND STRUTS .

Fig 1: Guide Joint Screws And Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Guide joint tightly seated in swivel bearing: 

Secure special tool 33 4 205  to guide joint.

Drive guide joint out of swivel bearing with special tool 33 4 200. 

Fig 2: Driving Guide Joint Out Of Swivel Bearing With Special Tool (33 4 200)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Screw on nut a few turns.

Press guide joint with special tool 31 2 240  out of tension strut.

Unscrew nut and remove guide joint.

Fig 3: Removing Guide Joint

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.