31 12 050 Removing and installing/replacing left or right tension strut

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Special tools required:

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove FRONT WHEELS
Remove front assembly underside protection
Remove STEERING GEAR COVER AT SIDE BOTTOM

Release bolts (1).

Remove front wheel arch cover (2) from bumper trim.

Installation:

Make sure wheel arch cover is in correct position.

Fig 1: Identifying Front Wheel Arch Cover Bolts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release nut (1) and remove screw (2).

Remove tension strut (3) from front axle carrier.

Installation:

Replace screw and nut.

Tighten bolt connection in NORMAL POSITION .

Tightening torque 31 12 1AZ .

Fig 2: Identifying Front Axle Carrier And Tension Strut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Do not release tension strut from swivel bearing with impact tool.

Make sure special tool rests correctly on steel bushing of swivel bearing. The swivel bearing must be removed if the steel bushing moves.

Rubber gaiter of tension strut must not be damaged!

Do not pull stainless steel ring off journal.

Slacken nut (1) two to three thread turns.

If necessary, replace lower section 31 2 242 with lower section 31 2 247.

Press tension strut (2) with special tool 31 2 240 off swivel bearing.

Unscrew nut (1) and remove tension strut (2) from swivel bearing.

Fig 3: Pressing Tension Strut With Special Tool (31 2 240) Swivel Bearing

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

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

Replace self-locking nut.

Tightening torque 31 12 2AZ .