31 12 138 Replacing rubber mounts on both tension struts

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 BMW 528i, 2009 BMW 528i, and 2008 BMW 528i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools required:

31 3 031 . See FRONT AXLE - SPECIAL TOOLS .
31 3 032

IMPORTANT: The rubber mounts on both tension struts must be replaced! Note that the rubber mounts may only be changed once.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Check ball joints of tension struts while installed, replace tension struts if necessary
Remove tension struts

IMPORTANT: If the tension struts already feature an identification mark with a center punch, it is necessary to replace both tension struts.

Mark tension struts with a punch mark in area (A).

Fig 1: Identifying Mark On Tension Struts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Using a press and special tools 31 3 031 and 31 3 032 , press rubber mount out of tension strut.

NOTE: Special tool 31 3 031 must be exactly flush with rubber mount bushing.

Fig 2: Pressing Rubber Mount Out Of Tension Strut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Keep rubber mount and bushing in tension strut clean and free from grease.

Align rubber mount by way of arrow to marking on tension strut and press in. The deviation must not exceed ± 5°.

Fig 3: Aligning Rubber Mount

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Installation:

Protrusion (A) equally large.

Fig 4: Checking Rubber Mount

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.