33 31 000 Removing and installing complete rear axle support

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 BMW 550i GT, 2012 BMW 550i GT, 2011 BMW 550i GT, and 2010 BMW 550i GT. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools required:

WARNING: Failure to comply with the following instructions may result in the vehicle slipping off the lifting platform and critically injuring other persons.
Load the luggage compartment with a minimum of 100 kg before lowering/removing the rear axle support.
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 vehicle hoist.

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

Necessary preliminary tasks

Expose CABLE PULL FOR THE EMERGENCY RELEASE UP TO THE REAR AXLE SUPPORT. (F07 only)
Deactivate and drain AIR SPRING/SUSPENSION SYSTEM
Remove REAR WHEELS.
Remove EXHAUST SYSTEM.
Remove PROPELLER SHAFT on the rear axle.
Remove SHOCK ABSORBER at the swinging arm.
Unclip BOTH AIR SPRINGS on swinging arm
Disconnect PLUG CONNECTION ON ACTUATOR UNIT (EMF). (F07 only)
Remove and tie up BOTH BRAKE CALIPERS AT THE WHEEL CARRIER.
Unclip and disconnect cable for pulse sensor and brake pad wear sensor.
Unlock and disconnect plug connection at both ride height sensors.

Pressure lines (swivel motor) before rear axle, release block screw connections (1) and (2).

Tightening torque 37 13 12AZ .

Hydraulic lines must be provided with suitable seal plugs 32 1 270 immediately after removal.

Fig 1: Identifying Oscillator Motor Pressure Line Screw Connection

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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

Insert special tools 31 5 255 in telescopic supports of a profile rail pair.

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

NOTE: In a profile rail pair, two profile rails are connected to one another by gearing.

Fig 2: Identifying Special Tools

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The jacking points on the left side are shown.

Align special tool 31 5 255 to opening in rear axle support.

Align special tool 31 5 253 to cross-member arms on rear axle support.

Support rear axle support by operating workshop jack 00 2 030 .

IMPORTANT: The centre of gravity of the rear axle must be positioned centrally over the workshop jack.
Use tensioning strap 33 5 206 to lash rear axle support to special tool 31 5 251 !

Fig 3: Identifying Special Tool 31 5 255 And 31 5 253 In Aligned Position

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (4) and remove stop plate.

Tightening torque 33 33 1AZ .

Installation note:

Arrow (1) on stop plate (2) must point in direction of travel!

Remove FRONT COMPRESSION STRUTS (3).

Carefully lower rear axle support and remove.

Fig 4: Identifying Front Compression Struts, Stop Plate And Screws

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After installation

Activate and fill AIR SPRING SYSTEM.
Adjust PARKING BRAKE only (F07).

For version with ARS:

Fill and bleed HYDRAULIC SYSTEM.
Check line connections for leak tightness
PERFORM start-up of ARS.