31 12 138 Replacing Rubber Mounts On Both Tension Struts

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 BMW 135i, 2009 BMW 135i, and 2008 BMW 135i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools required:

For the following special tools, refer to FRONT AXLE - SPECIAL TOOLS -- 135I

31 3 031
31 3 032

IMPORTANT: The mounts on both tension struts must be replaced! Note that the mounts may only be changed once.
On some models faulty rubber mounts are replaced by hydro-mounts. Procedure remains the same!

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Check ball joints of tension struts while installed, replace tension struts if necessary. See 31 12 080 Removing And Installing/Replacing Both Tension Struts .
Remove tension struts . See 31 12 080 Removing And Installing/Replacing Both 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 Punching Area 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. See Fig 2.

NOTE: Special tool 31 3 031 must be exactly flush with rubber mount bushing. See Fig 2.

Fig 2: Pressing Rubber Mount Out Of Tension Strut Using Press And Special Tools (31 3 031) And (31 3 032)

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: Locating Marks On Tension Strut And Rubber Mount

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Protrusion (A) equally large.

Fig 4: Identifying Protrusion

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.