Coil Spring & Shock Absorber: Removal
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 7 other vehicles, including the 2006 BMW X5, 2005 BMW X5, 2004 BMW X5, 2003 BMW X5, and 2002 BMW X5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Mark position of threaded pin to wheel arch. This ensures that the original camber is retained on installation. Release two nuts of spring strut support bearing/wheel arch connection. If there is no centering pin (1) fitted, only one nut may be released first. See Figure.
- Unfasten nut. See Figure.
- Unclip speed sensor/brake wear cable from fixture (1) and disconnect in plug housing (2). See Figure.
- Remove nuts. See Figure. Remove swivel bearing and tie back.
- Release remaining nut on spring strut support bearing/wheel arch connection, remove spring strut towards bottom. See Fig 1.
- Clamp special tool (31 3 341) on its guide (1) in vise. Insert spring retainer (31 3 352). Each spring retainer must be pushed in from chamfer side of special tool (31 3 341). See Fig 2.
- Ensure spring coils are resting completely in spring holder recess. The coils may not be tensioned on a block. See Fig 3.
- Tighten down coil spring until stress in the thrust bearing is relieved.
- Brace with wrench (open ring/hexagon socket) and release nut with special tool (31 2 210). See Fig 4.
- Remove spring strut.
- If a new coil spring is installed, relieve tension on special tool (31 3 341) and remove coil spring.
CAUTION:
Prior to each use, check that special tools are in proper working order. Do not use special tools which are damaged. Keep special tools clean and free of grease. Never tension or release special tool with an impact wrench. Locking pins must be felt and heard snapping into place.