51 45 ... Removing and installing carrier for instrument panel

Necessary preliminary tasks: 

• Remove instrument panel trim  
• Disconnect all necessary cable ties on support tube
• Release wiring harnesses/cable ducts and lay to one side
• If necessary, remove control units/disconnect plug connections

Fig 1: Identifying Cover Holder And Support Tube

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Detach wiring harness (3) from support tube (2).

Release screws (1) of heater on support tube (2).

Tightening torque 64 11 6AZ  , see 64 11 HOUSING, HEATER/AIR CONDITIONER .

Fig 2: Identifying Screws And Support Tube

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release nuts (1) on right and left on support tube (2).

Tightening torque 51 71 5AZ  , see 51 71 SEALS AND LOOSE BODY PARTS .

Fig 3: Identifying Nuts And Support Tube

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screw (1) of heater on support tube (2).

Tightening torque 51 71 6AZ  , see 51 71 SEALS AND LOOSE BODY PARTS ..

Fig 4: Identifying Screw And Support Tube

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screw (1) on support tube (2).

Tightening torque 51 71 5AZ  , see 51 71 SEALS AND LOOSE BODY PARTS ..

Fig 5: Identifying Screw And Support Tube

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1) on support tube (2) from bracket (3).

Tightening torque 51 71 4AZ  , see 51 71 SEALS AND LOOSE BODY PARTS ..

Detach support tube (2) with a 2nd person helping and remove.

Fig 6: Identifying Screws, Support Tube And Bracket

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.