31 11 506 Lowering/raising front axle support

Necessary preliminary tasks 

• Secure ENGINE IN INSTALLATION POSITION (N52) or SECURE ENGINE IN INSTALLATION POSITION (N54, N54T)
• Remove FRONT ASSEMBLY UNDERSIDE PROTECTION 
• If necessary remove pedestrian protection.
  Fig 1: Identifying Pedestrian Protection With Screws

  Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
• Remove V-STRUT, FRONT AXLE SUPPORT 
• Remove LOWER SECTION OF STEERING SPINDLE FROM STEERING GEAR
• Release coolant pipe. See 17 00 008 DRAINING AND ADDING COOLANT (N54) or REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING COOLANT PIPE ON FRONT AXLE (N52K) .
• Disconnect PLUG CONNECTION from ride-height sensor on right

Undo screw (1) for diagonal struts. Tightening torque 51 71 27AZ .

Release cable clip (1) on steering gear. Unlock plug connections (2) and disconnect.

Installation note:  Check plug connections for moisture and corrosion. Make sure wiring harnesses are laid correctly. Plug connections must audibly snap into place.

Cut open cable tie (1) for steering connecting line on front axle support.

Engage 31 5 251 with a 2nd person helping completely on workshop jack (00 2 030).

Insert special tools 31 5 253 in telescopic supports of a profile rail pair.

Insert special tools 31 5 256 in telescopic supports of other profile rail pair.

Align special tools 31 5 253 and 31 5 256 to front axle support.

Support front axle support by operating workshop jack (00 2 030).

Release bolts (1-3).

Installation: 

Check threads for damage; if necessary, repair with HELICOIL THREAD INSERTS .

Make sure screws are installed in correct positions.

• Bolt (1) M12x90
• Bolt (2) M12x145
• Bolt (3) M12x53

Tighten first bolts (1) and then bolts (2).

Tightening torque 31 10 1AZ .

After installation 

• Carry out STEERING ANGLE SENSOR ADJUSTMENT