Replacing center silencer (B36, B38) (Cooper)

Only perform this repair work after engine has cooled down.

Injury hazard! 

Call on the assistance of a second technician to remove the center silencer.

Preliminary work needed: 

• Remove both front TENSION STRUTS .
• Use a suitable jack to support and secure the center silencer against falling.

Removal: 

Loosen screws.

Remove cover (1).

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Carry over separation point to faulty center silencer and mark.

Secure center silencer against falling off.

Cut through exhaust pipes at marked point with a suitable tool.

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Loosen screws (1).

Remove connection carrier.

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Release clamp (1).

Replace clamp (1).

Parts:  Clamp.

Lower and remove center silencer with assistance of a second technician.

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Installation: 

Install new center silencer.

Tighten clamp (1).

Tightening torque 18 20 1AZ .

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Adjust new center silencer and connect by clamp to rear silencer.

Center clamp and tighten down.

Tightening torque 18 20 3AZ .

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Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Required follow-up work: 

• Install the front TENSION STRUTS .
• Check exhaust system for leak tightness.