31 12 023 Measuring play of wheel control joints

Special tools required: 

• 31 1 060 TEST FIXTURE

Test apparatus (31 1 060  ):

1. Slide (31 1 061)
2. Measuring electronics (31 1 062)
3. Magnetic retainer (31 1 063)
4. Evaluation electronics (31 1 064)
5. Magnetic retainer (31 1 065)
6. Hook wrench (31 1 066)
7. Measuring clip (31 1 067)

Fig 1: Magnetic Retainer, Hook Wrench, Evaluation Electronics And Measuring Clip

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

On vehicles with 17" or 18" rims, Remove front wheels if necessary, see 36 10 300 REMOVING OR INSTALLING FRONT OR REAR WHEEL .

Position magnetic retainers (1) on housing cover of control arm (2).

Fig 2: Magnetic Retainers And Housing Cover Of Control Arm

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Fit measuring clip (2) on threaded stem (3) of joint and screw down with locating screw (1).

Press button on evaluation electronics.

Both LEDs flash, then the red LED lights up permanently.

Fig 3: Measuring Clip, Threaded Stem And Locating Screw

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Move slide with measuring electronics upwards until green LED lights up.

Then secure slide with clamping screw (1).

Press evaluation electronics button for approx. 2 seconds until the green LED flashes.

Fig 4: Gap Between Measuring Electronics And Magnetic Retainer

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

1. Test:

   Set torque wrench to 60 Nm.

   Introduce a force with hook wrench (1) in the direction shown until torque is obtained.

   Read off test result: 

   • Red LED flashes: Joint must be replaced
   • Green LED flashes: Carry out 2nd test
   Fig 5: Hook Wrench

   Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
2. Test:

   Reposition hook wrench.

   Introduce a force with hook wrench (1) in the direction shown until torque is obtained.

   Read off test result: 

   • Red LED flashes: Joint must be replaced
   • Green LED flashes: Joint must not be replaced

Fig 6: Hook Wrench

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.