33 31 503 Lowering/raising 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:

IMPORTANT: Before lowering rear axle support:

Observe SAFETY INFORMATION for raising the vehicle

In order to avoid damage to vehicle hoist, perform weight compensation on vehicle.

Load luggage compartment with sand bags.

Necessary preliminary tasks

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

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 1: 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 open the 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 2: Identifying Special Tool 31 5 255 And 31 5 253 In Aligned Position

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (4).

Tightening torque 33 33 1AZ .

Installation note:

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

Remove FRONT TENSION STRUTS (3) and carefully lower rear axle carrier.

Fig 3: Identifying Front Tension 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).