31 12 000 Removing and installing left or right wishbone

Special tools required:

NOTE: If the wishbone is detached from the front axle support, it will be necessary to carry out the wheel alignment procedure . See 32 00 150 KDS CHASSIS/WHEEL ALIGNMENT CHECK WITH VEHICLE LOAD UP TO DESIGN POSITION or 32 00 155 KDS WHEEL ALIGNMENT CHECK WITH RIDE HEIGHT MEASUREMENT WITHOUT VEHICLE LOAD .

Necessary preliminary work:

Remove FRONT WHEEL .

IMPORTANT: Do not release wishbone from swivel bearing with impact tool.
Check rubber boot and tension ring for damage!
When reinstalling the wishbone, check the seal seat for the tension ring between wishbone and swivel bearing and replace wishbone, if applicable!

If necessary, remove link for ride-height sensor at wishbone on left.

Fig 1: Locating Wishbone From Swivel Bearing

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release nut (1) approx. 3-4 thread turns; if necessary, counter support at Torx socket.

Tightening torque 31 12 4AZ .

If necessary, replace lower section 31 2 242 with lower section 31 2 246

Use special tool 31 2 240 to press wishbone from swivel bearing.

Unscrew nut (1) and remove control arm.

Installation note:

Keep journal on ball head and bushing in swivel bearing clean and free from oil and grease.

Replace self-locking nut.

Fig 2: Releasing Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Slacken nut (1).

Tightening torque 31 12 3AZ .

Remove bolt towards front, remove wishbone (2).

Installation note:

Screw head must point in direction of travel.

Tighten down screw connection in NORMAL POSITION .

Replace screw and nut.

Fig 3: Identifying Wishbone And Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After installation:

Carry out wheel alignment procedure . See 32 00 150 KDS CHASSIS/WHEEL ALIGNMENT CHECK WITH VEHICLE LOAD UP TO DESIGN POSITION or 32 00 155 KDS WHEEL ALIGNMENT CHECK WITH RIDE HEIGHT MEASUREMENT WITHOUT VEHICLE LOAD .