31 12 080 Removing and installing/replacing both trailing links

Special tools required: 

• 31 2 230

Necessary preliminary tasks: 

• Remove FRONT WHEELS
• Remove FRONT ASSEMBLY UNDERSIDE PROTECTION
• If necessary, remove steering gear cover on both sides
• If necessary, remove wheel suspension cover
• Remove STABILIZER LINKS FROM STABILIZER 
• Remove CONTROL ARM FROM SWIVEL BEARING 

Release nut (1) and remove bolt (3).

Installation: 

Replace self-locking nut.

Tighten bolt connection in NORMAL POSITION .

Tightening torque 31 12 1AZ .

Slacken nut (2).

Installation: 

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

Fig 1: Identifying Slacken Nut And Bolt

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replace self-locking nut.

Tightening torque 31 12 19AZ .

Support swivel bearing with workshop jack and a suitable mounting.

Release nut and expand swivel bearing with special tool 31 2 230  .

Lower swivel bearing approx. 2.5 cm and remove tension strut.

Installation: 

Keep press fit of swivel gearing and spring strut in lower area clean and free from oil and grease.

Spread swivel bearing with special tool 31 2 230  , align by means of gap to web on back of spring strut and raise as far as it will go.

Tightening torque 31 31 3AZ .

Fig 2: Identifying Special Tools (31 2 230)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.