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

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 18 other vehicles, including the 2015 BMW Alpina B7L xDrive, 2015 BMW Alpina B7 xDrive, 2015 BMW 750i xDrive, 2015 BMW 750Li xDrive, and 2015 BMW 740Li 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 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 with special tool 32 3 220 from rack of steering box.

Installation note:

Clean rack.

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

Grease rack. See STEERING -- OPERATING FLUIDS .

Fig 1: Unscrewing Track Rod Using Special Tool (32 3 220)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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
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 .

Fig 2: Identifying Gaiter, Band Clamp, Clamping Ring And Clamping Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After installation:

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