31 12 080 Removing And Installing/Replacing Both Tension Struts

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 BMW Alpina and 2007 BMW Alpina. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: Observe safety instructions when raising the vehicle.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove front assembly underside protection . See 51 47 490 REMOVING AND INSTALLING / REPLACING FRONT UNDERBODY PROTECTION .
Remove air duct for brake ventilation
E67: Remove spring strut . See 31 SPRING STRUT .

Build date up to 09/2003:

Remove tension strut cover.

Installation:

Attach tension strut cover over bolt head and nut. Pin (1) must snap into place in bore (2).

Fig 1: Removing Tension Strut Cover

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release nut (1) and remove screw.

Installation:

Replace self-locking nuts.

Tighten bolt connection in normal position. See 32 00 ... MOVING VEHICLE INTO NORMAL POSITION .

Tightening torque. See FRONT AXLE - TIGHTENING TORQUES -- ALPINA

Release nut (2); if necessary, grip at Torx socket.

Installation:

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

Fig 2: Identifying Tension Strut Nuts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replace self-locking nut.

Tightening torque. See FRONT AXLE - TIGHTENING TORQUES -- ALPINA