31 21 090 Removing and installing/replacing left or right swivel bearing

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 BMW 535i, 2009 BMW 535i, and 2008 BMW 535i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools required:

31 2 230

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove FRONT BRAKE DISC
Remove FRONT PULSE GENERATOR FROM SWIVEL BEARING
Remove CONTROL ARM FROM SWIVEL BEARING
Remove TIE ROD END FROM SWIVEL BEARING
Remove BRACKET FOR STABILIZER LINK FROM SWIVEL BEARING
Remove TENSION STRUT FROM SWIVEL BEARING

IMPORTANT:

Check sensor head and line from pulse generator prior to installation for external damage, replacing if necessary.

Spread swivel bearing with special tool 31 2 230 .

Lower swivel bearing with workshop jack.

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.

Fig 1: Identifying Special Tool (31 2 230)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement:

Modify WHEEL BEARING or replace if necessary
Modify BRAKE CARRIER/BRAKE GUARD PLATE

After installation:

Replacement only: Perform chassis alignment check. See KDS CHASSIS/WHEEL ALIGNMENT CHECK WITH LOAD UP TO DESIGN POSITION or KDS CHASSIS/WHEEL ALIGNMENT CHECK WITH RIDE-HEIGHT MEASUREMENT WITHOUT LOAD .