BMW 1989-1995 525i Service Manual page 278

310-2
FRONT SUSPENSION
WARNING -
• Physical safety could be impaired if procedures
described here are undenaken without the proper
service tools and equipment. Be sure to have the
right tools on hand before beginning any j ob.
• Do
not reuse self-locking nuts
or
bolts. They are de-
signed to be used only once and may fail if reused.
Always replace self-locking fasteners anytime they
are loosened
or
removed.
• Do not install bolts and nuts coated with under-
coating wax.
as
the correct tightening torque cen-
not be assured. Always clean the threads with
solvent before installation.
or
install new parts.
• Do not attempt to weld
or
straighten any suspen-
sion components. Replace damaged parts.
SHOCK ABSORBERS
AND
SPRINGS
Fig. 2 shows a front strut assembly. Most strut assembly
components are available as replacement parts, although the
most commonly replaced parts are the strut cartridges, the
upper strut mounts, and the coil springs.
NOTE -
Shock absorber cartridges and springs should always
be replaced in pairs.
To remove and install strut assembly
1. Raise the car and remove the front wheel.
WARNING -
Make sure that the car is firmly supported on jack
stands designed for the purpose. Place the jack
stands beneath
a
structural chassis point. Do not
place jack stands under suspension parts.
00 1119 1
2. Unbolt the brake caliper assembly, keeping the brake
hose connected. Secure the brake caliper with wire
and do not let it hang from the brake hose . See 340
Brakes.
3. Remove the ASS pulse sensor. See Fig. 3.
4. Remove the brake fluid line, ASS sensor wi re harness.
and brake pad wear sensor wire harness from the strut
housing.
5. Remove the stabilizer bar link from the strut assembly.
6. Remove the strut-to-steering arm mounting bolts. Pull
the steering arm off of the strut assembly. See Fig. 4.
SHOCK A BSORBERS AND SP~NGS
Fig. 2. Front strut assembly.
7. Support the strut assembly from below and then re-
move the strut mounting nuts on the strut tower. Re-
move the strut assembly from the car.
NOTE-
Store the removed strut assembly upright. Do not allow
it to lay horizontally
or
upside-down for any length of
time. If incorrect storage has occurred, place the strut
assembly upright with the rod fUlly extended for at least
24 hours.
8. Make sure all thread bores, bolts, nuts and mating sur-
faces are clean.