31 11 506 Lowering/raising front axle carrier (M3, universal lifter)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 BMW M3, 2010 BMW M3, 2009 BMW M3, and 2008 BMW M3. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: Before lowering front axle carrier:
In order to avoid damage to lifting platform, perform weight compensation on vehicle.
Load spring strut domes with sand bags.

WARNING: Danger to life!
SECURE ENGINE IN INSTALLATION POSITION WITH SPECIAL TOOL to prevent it from falling down.

Necessary preliminary tasks

Secure ENGINE IN INSTALLATION POSITION WITH SPECIAL TOOL
Remove REINFORCEMENT PLATE
Remove REAR UNDERBODY PROTECTION
Remove REINFORCEMENT COVER ON LEFT AND RIGHT
Remove LOWER SECTION OF STEERING SPINDLE FROM STEERING GEAR

Disconnect plug connection (1) on ride-height sensor.

Disconnect plug connection (2) for Servotronic electrohydraulic converter.

Fig 1: Identifying Plug Connection On Ride-Height Sensor

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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.
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

Engage special tool 31 5 251 with a 2nd person helping completely on workshop jack.

Insert special tools 31 5 253 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 5 256 in telescopic supports of other profile rail pair.

Fig 2: Identifying Special Tools 31 5 253 And 31 5 256 In Telescopic Supports

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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

Align special tools 31 5 253 and 31 5 256 to front axle carrier.

Support front axle carrier by operating workshop jack.

Fig 3: Aligning Special Tools 31 5 253 And 31 5 256 To Front Axle Carrier

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Pay attention to power steering hoses and lines when lowering and raising. Hoses/lines must not be kinked/tensioned/bent!

Release bolts (1-4).

Lower front axle carrier by max. 10 cm.

Installation:

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

Make sure screws are installed in correct positions.

Screw (1) M12x90
Screw (2) M12x145
Screw (3) M12x53
Screw (4) M10x42

Fig 4: Front Axle Carrier Screws Tightening/Loosening Sequence

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Tighten down first screws (1) and then screws (2, 3, 4).

Tightening torque 31 10 1AZ .

After installation

Carry out STEERING ANGLE SENSOR ADJUSTMENT