3331503 Lowering/raising rear axle carrier (universal lifter)

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2011 BMW 328i, 2011 BMW 323i, 2010 BMW 335i, 2010 BMW 328i, and 2010 BMW 323i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: Risk of injury!
Failure to comply with the following instructions may result in the vehicle slipping off the lifting platform and critically injuring other persons.
Read and observe the information on load distribution in the Owner's Handbook, lifting platform.
Before lowering/removing the rear axle support, it is essential to place a minimum load of 100 kg in the luggage compartment to prevent the vehicle from toppling/slipping off the lifting platform!

When supporting components, make sure that

the vehicle can no longer be raised or lowered
the vehicle does not lift off the locating plates on the lifting platform

Necessary preliminary tasks

Remove both REAR COIL SPRINGS
If necessary, remove trailing link

Press clutch pedal down to floor and secure with pedal support.

NOTE: The pedal support may only be released when the brake lines are reconnected.

This prevents brake fluid from emerging from the expansion tank and air from entering the system when the brake lines are opened.

Fig 1: Pressing Brake Pedal Down

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Position an oil sump underneath to catch brake fluid.

Release banjo bolts (1), gripping brake hoses (2) at square head in the process.

Disconnect brake hoses (2) and seal off with plugs.

Installation:

Make sure brake hoses are laid without tension and with sufficient spacing to adjoining components.

Tightening torque 34 32 1AZ .

Fig 2: Identifying Brake Hoses And Banjo Bolts

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Unclip cables for pulse generator and ride-height sensor/brake pad sensor on rear axle carrier at side.

Slacken nut (1).

Turn bracket (2) for exhaust system towards rear.

Release sheet nut and bolts (arrows).

Place heat shield on exhaust system.

Fig 3: Locating Sheet Nut And Bolts

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31 5 251 Engage with a 2nd person helping completely on workshop jack 00 2 030 DEVICE .

Insert special tools 31 5 255 in telescopic supports of a profile rail pair.

NOTE: In a profile rail pair two profile rails are connected to each by toothing.

Insert special tools 31 5 253 in telescopic supports of other profile rail pair.

Fig 4: Insert Special Tools In Telescopic Supports Of Profile Rail Pair

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NOTE: The jacking points on the left side are shown.

Align special tools 31 5 253 and 31 5 255 to rear axle support.

Support front axle support by operating workshop jack 00 2 030 DEVICE .

Fig 5: Identifying Special Tools 31 5 253 And 31 5 255 On Rear Axle Support

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Remove COMPRESSION STRUTS (1).

Release screws (2) and swivel/remove stop plates to one side.

Lower rear axle carrier.

Installation:

Check threads for damage; if necessary, repair with HELICOIL THREAD INSERTS .

First install COMPRESSION STRUTS (1) and then tighten down screws (2).

Tightening torque 33 33 1AZ .

Fig 6: Locating Sheet Nut And Bolts

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

After installation

Bleed BRAKING SYSTEM