32 31 070 Removing and installing/replacing lower section of steering shaft

IMPORTANT: If the lower section of the steering shaft is separated from the steering box/steering column, the steering column switch cluster may be damaged when the steering wheel is turned.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove front UNDERBODY PROTECTION
Remove sump guard for steering (sports chassis only)
REMOVE trim panel for pedal mechanism
Move steering column in "top" and "retracted" position.

Release clamping bolts (1) of steering shaft from steering box from below and detach steering shaft from steering box.

Installation note:

Clean screw threads to remove all remnants of screw locking adhesive.

Replace clamping bolts.

Tightening torque 32 31 2AZ .

Fig 1: Identifying Steering Shaft Clamping Bolt

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Pull down steering shaft until clamping bolt (1) is accessible with tool (reversible ratchet and extension).

Release clamping bolt (1) and remove steering shaft in downward direction.

Installation note:

Clean screw threads to remove all remnants of screw locking adhesive.

Replace clamping bolts.

Fig 2: Identifying Steering Shaft Clamping Bolt

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Counter-hold the steering shaft in the passenger compartment on the steering column when sliding the universal joint onto the steering column!

Connect steering spindle first to steering column and then to steering gear.

Clamping bolt must rest in groove of steering box or steering column.

No subsequent retorquing permitted!

Tightening torque 32 31 3AZ .

After installation:

Turn steering wheel in both directions to the limit position. The airbag indicator light must not light up in the process.