31 12 050 Removing and installing/replacing left or right trailing link

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.

Necessary preliminary tasks

Remove FRONT WHEEL.
Remove FRONT ASSEMBLY UNDERSIDE PROTECTION .

Release screws (1).

Remove front wheel arch cover (2) from bumper trim.

Installation note:

Make sure wheel arch cover is correctly positioned.

Fig 1: Identifying Cover And Screws

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Release nut (1) and remove screw (2).

Tightening torque 31 12 1AZ.

Remove tension strut (3) from front axle support.

Installation note:

Replace screw and nut.

Observe assembly sequence.

Fig 2: Identifying Tension Strut, Nut And Screw

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IMPORTANT: Do not release tension strut from swivel bearing with impact tool.
The swivel bearing must be removed
if the steel bushing moves.
Rubber boot of trailing link must not be damaged!
Do not pull stainless steel ring off journal.

Release nut (1) and remove trailing link (2) from swivel bearing.

Tightening torque 31 12 2AZ.

Installation note:

Replace self-locking nut.

Keep tension strut to swivel bearing connection clean and free from oil and grease.

Fig 3: Identifying Trailing Link And Nut

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Risk of damage!

Observe assembly sequence.

Trailing link must be screwed in normal position!

(Adjustment of normal position, see below).

Installing tension strut

Install trailing link on front axle support (do not tighten down screw connection).
Adjust trailing link to swivel bearing to dimension (A) and tighten on front axle support.
Tightening torque 31 12 1AZ.

Dimension (A) = 2 cm (vehicle on vehicle hoist, spring strut rebounded)

Fig 4: Identifying Swivel Bearing Adjusting Dimension
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NOTE: Installing the trailing link to dimension (A) corresponds to the normal position in the compressed state!
Press trailing link into swivel bearing and tighten trailing link/swivel bearing.
Tightening torque 31 12 2AZ.