32 21 231 Replacing left or right tie rod

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 BMW 545i and 2004 BMW 545i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special Tools Required:

32 3 160

Necessary Preliminary Tasks:

Remove tie rod end from swivel bearing. Refer to 32 21 151 REPLACING LEFT OR RIGHT TIE ROD .
Remove gaiter from power steering gear and slide back. Refer to 32 11 100 REPLACING GAITER FOR STEERING GEAR ON LEFT OR RIGHT .

IMPORTANT: To avoid damage to rack and to suspension mounting, move rack in as far as possible.

Unscrew tie rod with special tool 32 3 160 from rack of power steering gear and remove

Tightening torque, refer to TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .

Fig 1: Removing Tie Rod With Special Tool 32 3 160

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Clean rack.

Check surface of rack for damage (e.g. corrosion).

Replace O-ring (1).

Grease rack and O-ring (1). Refer to OPERATING FLUIDS .

Fig 2: Replacing O-Ring On Rack

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Assembling New Component With Gaiter:

Release clamping nut (2).

Screw off tie rod end; if necessary, grip tie rod with open-end wrench.

Remove clamping ring (1) and clamping nut (2).

Push gaiter (4), band clamp (3), clamping nut (2) and clamping ring (1) onto tie rod.

Determine measurement (A) on old part to simplify following adjustment of front axle.

Screw in tie rod end to measurement (A).

Tighten down clamping nut (2).

Tightening torque, (51 N.m.).

After installation:

Perform chassis alignment check. Refer to 32 00 150 STANDARD CHASSIS / WHEEL ALIGNMENT WITH DIN LOAD and 32 00 155 CHASSIS / WHEEL ALIGNMENT WITHOUT LOAD .
Carry out steering angle sensor adjustment/adjustment for active front steering. Refer to 32 10 005 ADJUSTMENT FOR ACTIVE FRONT STEERING and 61 31 996 CARRY OUT STEERING ANGLE SENSOR ADJUSTMENT .

Fig 3: View Of Tie Rod Components
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.