32 21 231 Replacing (removing and installing) left or right track rod

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 21 other vehicles, including the 2017 BMW 550i GT xDrive, 2017 BMW 535i GT xDrive, 2017 BMW 535i GT, 2016 BMW 550i GT xDrive, and 2016 BMW 535i GT xDrive. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools required:

32 3 220

IMPORTANT: The steering box must be replaced if the polished surface of the rack is damaged (e.g. by corrosion)!

Necessary preliminary tasks

Remove stiffening plate (M5 only)
Remove TRACK ROD END FROM SWIVEL BEARING
Remove GAITER FROM STEERING BOX and slide back

IMPORTANT: To avoid damage to rack and to suspension mounting, move rack in as far as possible.

Unscrew track rod from rack of steering box using special tool 32 3 220.

Fig 1: Unscrewing Track Rod From Rack Of Steering Box Using Special Tool

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation note:

Clean rack.

Check surface of rack for damage (e.g. corrosion).

Grease rack. Use Calypsol SF-3-131-TMM 3, BMW part number 83 23 9 407 857 (100g tube).

Tightening torque 32 21 1AZ .

On replacement, assemble new part with gaiter

Determine dimension (A) on used part to simplify following adjustment of front axle
Slacken clamping nut (2)
Screw off track rod end; if necessary, grip track rod with open-end spanner
Remove clamping ring (1) and screw off clamping nut (2)
Slide gaiter (4) and ear clamp and band clamp (3) onto track rod

Fig 2: Identifying Gaiter, Band Clamp, Clamping Ring And Nut
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Slide clamping nut (2) and clamping ring (1) onto track rod
Screw track rod end onto track rod to dimension (A)
Tighten down clamping nut (2)
Tightening torque 32 21 2AZ .

After installation

Only if replacing/removing track rod end: Perform CHASSIS/WHEEL ALIGNMENT CHECK