Front Axle (With Spring Strut Shock Absorber): Removal
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2008 BMW Z4, 2007 BMW Z4, 2006 BMW Z4, 2005 BMW Z4, and 2004 BMW Z4. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Remove engine cover. Lay wiring harness on rear side of cylinder head to one side. Cut through cable tie, if necessary.
- Secure engine hood in service position with Special Tool (51 2 170). See Fig 1 . Assemble Special Tool (00 0 200) with Special Tool (00 0 201/202/203/204/451) and install. Supports of Special Tool (00 0 451) must rest on both rear screw connections of side walls. Secure Special Tool (11 0 020) to front and rear lifting eyes on engine and to Special Tool (00 0 200).
- Tighten screws (1, 2). See Fig 2 . Remove engine mounts at top left and right. Raise engine with Special Tool (00 0 200) approximately 10 mm.
- Remove brake caliper, and secure assembly to body using wire. Brake lines remain connected.
- Remove splash guard.
- Remove reinforcement plate. See REINFORCEMENT PLATE .
- Remove lower section of steering spindle. See STEERING SPINDLE LOWER SECTION .
- Remove left and right brake calipers and tie up to body. Lines remain connected. Disconnect ABS pulse sensor line.
- Remove left and right stabilizer links (1) from stabilizer (2). See Fig 3 . Grip with open end wrench. Secure with adhesive tape to spring strut.
- Remove retaining bracket (1) of angle joint from control arm (2). See Figure .
- Remove control arm bracket from engine support on left and right. See Figure .
- Remove left and right engine mounts from front axle support.
- Release screws from side. Lower vehicle until rear wheels touch ground. Support front axle support in middle with workshop hoist. Remove front axle support from engine support on left and right.
- Remove nuts from top of strut assemblies. Release only one nut if there is no centering pin (1). Position of threaded pin to wheel arch must be marked exactly. This ensures that original camber is retained during installation. See Figure .
- Remove support bearing from wheel arch on left and right.
- Raise car. Each spring strut must be held by a person. Spring struts must not tilt or hang outwards to prevent damage to ball joints and side walls.