33 31 000 Removing and installing complete rear axle support

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 BMW Z4, 2015 BMW Z4, and 2014 BMW Z4. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools required:

WARNING:

Danger of injury!

Failure to comply with the following instructions may result in the vehicle slipping off the lifting platform, which may result in critical injuries.

Before lowering/removing the rear axle carrier, it is essential to place a minimum load of 100 kg in the luggage compartment to prevent the vehicle from toppling/slipping off the lifting platform!

When supporting components, make sure that

the vehicle can no longer be raised or lowered
the vehicle does not lift off the locating plates on the lifting platform

IMPORTANT: Observe SAFETY INFORMATIONS for raising the vehicle
In order to avoid damage to vehicle hoist, perform weight compensation on vehicle.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove and suspend PROPELLER SHAFT AT THE REAR AXLE DIFFERENTIAL .
Remove ANTI-ROLL BAR at the rear axle.

IMPORTANT:

Risk of damage!

Brake hose must not be exposed to tensile loads.

Release screws (1) and remove brackets.

Tightening torque 34 32 4AZ .

Fig 1: Identifying Screws On Trailing Arm

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Detach plug connection for RIGHT BRAKE PAD WEAR SENSOR .

Disconnect plug connection on both sides for the PULSE SENSOR .

Disconnect plug connections at the RIDE HEIGHT SENSOR .

Undo output shafts at the rear axle differential. See REPLACING LEFT OUTPUT SHAFT or REPLACING RIGHT OUTPUT SHAFT .

Undo shock absorber at the trailing arm. See REPLACING REAR SHOCK ABSORBER or REPLACING REAR SHOCK ABSORBER (ADAPTIVE M SUSPENSION) .

Remove COIL SPRINGS at the rear.

Disconnect plug connection from the brake anchor plate and unclip cable at the trailing arm.

Undo brake caliper at brake anchor plate.

Guide brake caliper between output shaft and bottom wishbone and tie up.

Remove BEARING SUPPORT FOR TRAILING ARM FROM BODY .

Fig 2: Identifying Bearing Block Of Trailing Arm

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Position the support (1) at the rear of the rear axle support.

Position the support (2) in the bore at the front of the rear axle support!

Support rear axle support using workshop jack and special tool 31 5 250 .

Fig 3: Supporting Rear Axle Carrier Using Workshop Jack And Special Tool (31 5 250)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: The center of gravity of the rear axle must be positioned centrally over the workshop jack.
Tie down rear axle support 33 5 206 to the special tool using a tensioning strap 31 5 250 !

Release screws (1).

Remove nuts (2) and screws.

Tightening torque 33 33 1AZ .

Slowly lower rear axle support.

Installation note:

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

Check seating of coil springs with spring pads, correct if necessary.

Fig 4: Identifying Tension Strut Nut And Screws

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Installation note:

Check threaded bolts for damage and replace if necessary.

Tightening torque 33 33 2AZ .

Fig 5: Locating Threaded Bolt

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After installation:

Carry out WHEEL ALIGNMENT PROCEDURE .