1985 BMW 3 SERIES Front seal

illustration). Use only low pressure, such as
that produced by a foot pump, to ease the
piston out of its bore.
Warning: Be careful not to place
your fingers between the piston
and the caliper, as the piston
may come out with some force. If
you’re working on a front caliper of a 3-
Series model, remove the dust boot.
6Inspect the mating surfaces of the piston
and caliper bore wall. If there is any scoring,
rust, pitting or bright areas, renew the
complete caliper unit.
7If these components are in good condition,
remove the piston seal from the caliper bore
using a wooden or plastic tool (see
illustration). Metal tools may damage the
cylinder bore.
8Remove the caliper guide pins or bolts and
remove the rubber dust boots.
9Wash all the components using methylated
spirit or brake system cleaner.
10Using the correct overhaul kit for your
vehicle, reassemble the caliper as follows.
11Dip the new rubber seal in clean brake
fluid, and refit it in the lower groove in the
caliper bore, making sure it isn’t twisted.
12On all calipers except the front calipers of
3-Series models, coat the walls of the caliperbore and the piston with clean brake fluid, and
refit the piston at this time. Do not force the
piston into the bore, but make sure that it is
squarely in place, then apply firm (but not
excessive) pressure to refit it. Fit the new
rubber dust boot and the retaining ring.
13On the front calipers of 3-Series models,
coat the piston with clean brake fluid, and
stretch the new dust boot over the bottom of
the piston. Hold the piston over the caliper
bore, and insert the rubber flange of the dust
boot into the upper groove in the bore. Start
with the furthest side from you, and work your
way around towards the front until it is
completely seated. Push the piston into the
caliper bore until it is bottomed in the bore,
then seat the top of the dust boot in the
groove in the piston.
14Lubricate the sliding surfaces of the guide
pins or bolts with silicone-based grease
(usually supplied in the kit), and push them
into the caliper. Refit the dust boots.
Refitting
15Refit the caliper by reversing the removal
procedure (see Section 3).
Warning: Check and if necessary
renew the mounting bolts on 3-
Series models whenever they are
removed. If in doubt, use new bolts.16If the hose was disconnected from the
caliper, bleed the brake system (see Sec-
tion 16).
5 Brake disc- inspection,
removal and refitting
2
Note:This procedure applies to both the front
and rear brake discs. Brake discs should
always be renewed or refinished in pairs (both
front or both rear discs) even if only one is
damaged or defective.
Braking system 9•5
4.4b Remove the circlip for the dust seal
4.4a An exploded view of a typical rear caliper assembly (front calipers similar)
4.7 Remove the piston seal from the
caliper bore using a wooden or plastic tool
(metal tools may damage the
cylinder bore)
1 Caliper assembly
2 Bracket mounting bolt
3 Bleed screw
4 Dust cap
5 Anti-rattle spring
6 Guide bolt
7 Brake pad wear warning
light wire8 Cable clamp
9 Brake disc
10 Allen bolt
11 Shield
12 Bolt
13 Washer
14 Plug15 Plug
16 Caliper bracket
17 Cable clamp
18 Piston seal, piston, dust
boot and circlip
19 Guide bush repair kit
20 Brake pads4.5 With the caliper padded to catch the
piston, use low pressure compressed air
to force the piston out of its bore - make
sure your fingers are not between the
piston and the caliper
9

simply unscrew it. Plug the open fitting in the
caliper if the hose is removed for any length of
time, to prevent dirt ingress.
5Refitting is the reverse of the removal
procedure. Make sure the brackets are in
good condition and the locknuts are securely
tightened. Renew the spring clips if they don’t
fit tightly.
6Carefully check to make sure the
suspension and steering components do not
make contact with the hoses. Have an
assistant turn the steering wheel from lock-to-
lock during inspection.
7Bleed the brake system as described in
Section 16.
Metal brake line renewal
8When renewing brake lines, use genuine
parts only - preferably from a BMW dealer.
9Genuine BMW brake lines are supplied
straight. You’ll need a pipe-bending tool to
bend them to the proper shape.
10First, remove the line you intend to renew,
lay it on a clean workbench and measure it
carefully. Obtain a new line of the same
length, and bend it to match the pattern of the
old line.
Warning: Do not crimp or
damage the line. No bend should
have a smaller radius than
14 mm. Make sure the protective
coating on the new line is undamaged at
the bends.
11When fitting the new line, make sure it’s
well supported by the brackets, that the
routing matches the original, and that there’s
plenty of clearance between movable
components or those components which will
become hot.
12After refitting, check the master cylinder
fluid level, and add fluid as necessary. Bleed
the brake system as outlined in Section 16,
and test the brakes carefully before driving the
vehicle. Be sure there are no leaks.
16 Brake hydraulic system-
bleeding
3
Warning: Wear eye protection
when bleeding the brake system.
If the fluid comes in contact with
your eyes, immediately rinse
them with water, and seek medical
attention. Most types of brake fluid are
highly flammable, and may ignite if spilled
onto hot engine components, for example.
In this respect, brake fluid should be
treated with as much care as if it were
petrol. When topping-up or renewing the
fluid, always use the recommended type,
and ensure that it comes from a freshly-
opened sealed container. Never re-use old
brake fluid bled from the system, and don’t
top-up with fluid which has been standing
open for a long time, as it is potentially
dangerous to do so.
Note:Bleeding the hydraulic system is
necessary to remove any air which has
entered the system during removal and
refitting of a hose, line, caliper or master
cylinder.
1It will probably be necessary to bleed the
system at all four brakes if air has entered the
system due to low fluid level, or if the brake
lines have been disconnected at the master
cylinder.
2If a brake line was disconnected at only one
wheel, then only that caliper or wheel cylinder
need be bled.
3If a brake line is disconnected at a fitting
located between the master cylinder and any
of the brakes, that part of the system served
by the disconnected line must be bled.
4Bleed the right rear, the left rear, the right
front and the left front brake, in that order,
when the entire system is involved.
5Remove any residual vacuum from the
brake servo by applying the brakes about 30
times with the engine off. This will also relieve
any pressure in the anti-lock brake system
(where applicable).
6Remove the master cylinder reservoir
cover, and fill the reservoir with brake fluid.
Refit the cover. Note:Check the fluid level
often during the bleeding operation, and add
fluid as necessary to prevent the fluid level
from falling low enough to allow air into the
master cylinder.
7Have an assistant on hand, an empty clear
plastic container, and a length of clear plastic
or vinyl tubing to fit over the bleed screws.
Alternatively, a “one-man” bleeding kit can be
used. A “one-man” kit usually contains a tubeor bottle with a one-way valve incorporated -
in this way, the pedal can be pumped as
normal, but air is not drawn back into the
system when the pedal is released. If a one-
man kit is used, follow the instructions
provided with it; similarly with pressure
bleeding kits. In any case, you will also need a
supply of new brake fluid of the
recommended type, and a spanner for the
bleed screw.
8Beginning at the right rear wheel, loosen the
bleed screw slightly, then tighten it to a point
where it is tight but can still be loosened
quickly and easily.
9Place one end of the tubing over the bleed
nipple, and submerge the other end in brake
fluid in the container (see illustration).
10Have the assistant pump the brakes a few
times, then hold the pedal firmly depressed.
Note:If the vehicle is equipped with ABS,
have the assistant pump the pedal at least 12
times.
11While the pedal is held depressed, open
the bleed screw just enough to allow a flow of
fluid to leave the caliper or wheel cylinder.
Your assistant should press the brake pedal
smoothly to the floor, and hold it there. Watch
for air bubbles coming out of the submerged
end of the tube. When the fluid flow slows
after a couple of seconds, close the screw
and have your assistant release the pedal.
12Repeat paragraphs 10 and 11 until no
more air is seen leaving the tube, then tighten
the bleed screw and proceed to the left rear
wheel, the right front wheel and the left front
wheel, in that order, and perform the same
procedure. Be sure to check the fluid in the
master cylinder reservoir frequently.
Warning: Never re-use old brake
fluid. It absorbs moisture from
the atmosphere, which can allow
the fluid to boil and render the
brakes inoperative.
13Refill the master cylinder with fluid at the
end of the operation.
14Check the operation of the brakes. The
pedal should feel solid when depressed, with
no sponginess. If necessary, repeat the entire
process. Do not operate the vehicle if you are
in doubt about the effectiveness of the brake
system.
9•14 Braking system
16.9 Place one end of the tubing over the
bleed screw, and submerge the other end
in brake fluid in the container
15.3 A typical brake line-to-brake hose
connection: To disconnect it, use one
spanner to hold the hex-shaped fitting on
the end of the flexible hose (lower right
arrow) and loosen the threaded fitting on
the metal line with a split ring (“brake”)
spanner (upper right arrow), then remove
the spring clip (left arrow)
Brake fluid is an effective
paint stripper, and will attack
plastics; if any is spilt, wash it
off immediately with copious
amounts of water.

problem exists, a new subframe or steering
arm (5-Series) or steering knuckle (3-Series),
which is integral with the strut housing, should
be fitted as well as the new balljoint.
Renewal
Note: None of these balljoints can be serviced
or renewed individually. If one of them is worn,
a complete new arm must be fitted.
8 Front hub and wheel bearing
assembly-
removal and refitting
3
Note:Removing the front hub/bearing
assembly renders it unfit for re-use. A new
assembly will be required for refitting.
Removal
1Loosen the wheel bolts, then raise the front
of the vehicle, and support it securely on axle
stands. Remove the wheel bolts and the
wheel.
2Using a hammer and chisel, remove the
dust cap from the centre of the wheel hub
(see illustration).
3Unstake the hub nut (see illustration).
4Refit the wheel and lower the vehicle to the
ground. Loosen, but do not remove, the hub
nut.
Warning: Always loosen and
tighten the hub nut with the
vehicle on the ground. Theleverage needed to loosen the nut (which
is very tight) could topple the vehicle off a
lift or an axle stand.
5Raise the front of the vehicle, support it
securely on axle stands, and remove the front
wheel again.
6Remove the front brake caliper and
mounting bracket (see Chapter 9). There is no
need to disconnect the brake hose. Hang the
caliper out of the way with a piece of wire.
7Remove the brake disc (see Chapter 9).
8Remove the hub nut, and pull the hub and
bearing assembly off the stub axle. You may
have to tap it off if it’s stuck (see illustration).
If the inner race of the bearing remains on the
stub axle (it probably will), remove the dust
shield (rubber boot) behind the bearing, and
use a puller to remove the inner race (see
illustration).Refitting
9Fit a new dust shield.
10Push the new hub and bearing onto the
stub axle. If it’s necessary to use force, press
or drive only against the bearing inner race
(see illustration).
11Fit a new hub nut, and tighten it finger-
tight at this stage.
12Refit the brake disc, its countersunk
retaining screw, and the brake caliper (see
Chapter 9).
13Refit the wheel, and lower the vehicle to
the ground.
14Tighten the hub nut to the torque listed inthis Chapter’s Specifications. Again, make
sure you do this with the vehicle on the
ground, not up on axle stands.
15Raise the front of the vehicle and place it
securely on axle stands. Remove the wheel.
16Stake the collar of the nut into the groove
of the spindle.
17Apply suitable sealant to a new grease
cap, and fit the cap by driving it into place
with a soft-faced mallet.
18Refit the wheel and wheel bolts. Lower the
vehicle to the ground, and tighten the wheel
bolts to the torque listed in the Chapter 1
Specifications.
9 Rear shock absorbers
(3-Series)-
removal and refitting
3
Removal
Note:Although shock absorbers don’t always
wear out simultaneously, renew both left and
right shock absorbers at the same time, to
prevent handling peculiarities or abnormal ride
quality.
1Chock the front wheels.
2Raise the rear of the vehicle, and support it
securely on axle stands. Support the trailing
arm with a trolley jack. Place a block of wood
on the jack head to serve as a cushion.
3Remove the shock absorber lower
mounting bolt (see illustration).
10•8 Suspension and steering systems
9.3 Remove the shock absorber lower
mounting bolt (arrowed)8.10 Use a large socket or a suitable piece
of pipe to drive against the inner race of
the new bearing8.8b If the inner race of the bearing sticks
to the stub axle, use a puller to get it off
8.8a If the hub sticks, knock it loose with a
hammer8.3 Using a chisel, knock out the staked
portion of the hub nut8.2 Using a hammer and chisel, knock out
the dust cap in the centre of the hub

4On some models, working inside the boot,
you can remove the trim to access the upper
mounting nuts; on later models, you’ll have to
remove the rear seat back to get at the upper
mounting nuts. On Touring (Estate) models,
remove the side backrest and rear seat belt
reels, and unscrew the centring shell on the
wheel arch. On Convertibles, simply remove
the top from the recessed well behind the
passenger compartment, and remove the
small rubber access cover. As you remove the
mounting nuts (see illustration), have an
assistant support the shock absorber from
below so it doesn’t fall out.
5Look for oil leaking past the seal in the top
of the shock absorber body. Inspect the
rubber bushings in the shock absorber eye. If
they’re cracked, dried or torn, renew them. To
test the shock absorber, grasp the shock
absorber body firmly with one hand, and push
the damper rod in and out with the other. The
strokes should be smooth and firm. If the rod
goes in and out too easily, or unevenly, the
shock absorber is defective and must be
renewed.
Refitting
6Fit the shock absorbers in the reverse order
of removal, but don’t tighten the mounting
bolts and nuts yet.
7Bounce the rear of the vehicle a couple of
times to settle the bushings, then tighten the
nuts and bolts to the torque values listed in
this Chapter’s Specifications.
10 Rear coil springs (3-Series)-
removal and refitting
4
Note: Although coil springs don’t always wear
out simultaneously, renew both left and right
springs at the same time, to prevent handling
peculiarities or abnormal ride quality.
Removal
1Loosen the wheel bolts. Chock the front
wheels, then raise the rear of the vehicle andsupport it securely on axle stands. Make sure
the stands don’t interfere with the rear
suspension when it’s lowered and raised
during this procedure. Remove the wheels.
2Disconnect the mountings and brackets
which support the rear portion of the exhaust
system, and temporarily lower the exhaust
system (see Chapter 4). Lower the exhaust
system only enough to lower the suspension
and remove the springs. Suspend the exhaust
with a piece of wire.
3Support the differential with a trolley jack,
then remove the differential rear mounting
bolt. Push the differential down, and wedge it
into this lowered position with a block of
wood. This reduces the drive angle,
preventing damage to the CV joints when the
trailing arms are lowered to remove the
springs.
4Place a trolley jack under the trailing arm.
5If the vehicle has a rear anti-roll bar,
disconnect the bar from its connecting links,
or disconnect the links from the trailing arms
(see Section 12).
6Loop a chain through the coil spring, and
bolt the chain together, to prevent the coil
spring from popping out when the trailing arm
is lowered. Be sure to leave enough slack in
the chain to allow the spring to extend
completely.
7Disconnect the shock absorber lower
mounting bolt (see Section 9), carefully lower
the trailing arm and remove the coil spring.
Refitting
8Refitting is the reverse of removal. As the
trailing arm is raised back up, make sure the
spring seats properly.
11 Rear shock absorber/coil
spring assembly (5-Series)-
removal and refitting
4
Removal
Note:Although shock absorbers don’t always
wear out simultaneously, renew both left and
right shock absorbers at the same time, to
prevent handling peculiarities or abnormal ride
quality.1Loosen the wheel bolts, then chock the
front wheels. Raise the vehicle and support it
securely on axle stands. Remove the wheels.
2Remove the shock absorber lower
mounting bolt (see illustration).
3On early models, peel back the trim inside
the luggage compartment far enough to
access the upper mounting nuts. To get at the
upper mounting nuts on later models, first
remove the rear seat cushion (see Chap-
ter 11), then remove the two bolts holding the
rear seat backrest, and remove the backrest.
Support the trailing arm with a jack, and
remove the upper mounting nuts (see
illustration). Lower the jack, and remove the
shock absorber and the gasket. To separate
the shock absorber and spring, refer to
Section 6.
Refitting
4Refitting is the reverse of removal. Don’t
forget to fit the gasket between the upper end
of the shock absorber and the body. Tighten
the upper nuts to the torque listed in this
Chapter’s Specifications. Don’t tighten the
lower bolt until the vehicle is lowered.
5Lower the vehicle, and with it sitting at the
normal ride height, tighten the lower bolt to
the torque listed in this Chapter’s Specifi-
cations.
12 Rear anti-roll bar-
removal and refitting
2
Removal
Note:The rear anti-roll bar is mounted
basically the same way on all models. Follow
these general removal and refitting
procedures, keeping in mind any variations.
1Chock the front wheels, then raise the rear
of the vehicle and support it securely on axle
stands.
2Remove the anti-roll bar bracket bolts or
nuts (see illustration).
3Disconnect the anti-roll bar from the link at
each end of the bar (see illustrations)and
detach the anti-roll bar.
Suspension and steering systems 10•9
11.3 Shock absorber upper mounting nuts
(arrowed) on a later (E34) 5-Series model11.2 Remove the shock absorber lower
mounting bolt (arrowed)9.4 Shock absorber upper mounting nuts
(arrowed) - late-model convertible shown.
On other early models, upper nuts are
accessible from the luggage compartment;
on later models, they’re behind the back of
the rear seat, up under the parcel shelf
10

Where power-assistance is fitted, hydraulic
pressure (provided by an engine-driven pump)
delivers power steering fluid to the rack-and-
pinion steering gear or the recirculating-ball
steering box - this enhances steering
response and reduces steering effort.
Aside from maintaining the proper level of
power steering fluid in the system and
checking the tension of the drivebelt (see
Chapter 1, where applicable), the steering
system requires no maintenance. However,
on high-mileage vehicles, the track rod end
balljoints, the universal joints on either end of
the universal joint shaft, and the rubber
coupling between the steering column and the
universal joint shaft will wear, develop
excessive play, and cause the steering to feel
somewhat loose. At this point, you’ll have to
renew these items; they can’t be serviced.
Before you conclude that the steering
system needs work, however, always check
the tyres (see Section 25) and tyre pressures
(see Chapter 1). Also inspect the bearings in
the strut upper mounts (see Section 5), the
front hub bearings (see Section 8) and other
suspension parts, which may also be
contributing to an imprecise steering feel.
17 Track rod ends-
removal and refitting
4
1Loosen but do not remove the wheel bolts,
then raise the front of the vehicle and secure it
on axle stands. Remove the front wheel.
3-Series models
2Loosen the nut on the track rod balljoint
stud, and free the balljoint stud from the
steering arm using a balljoint separator. In the
absence of a separator tool, try giving the
steering arm a few light blows with a hammer
(see illustration). Remove the nut, and
separate the balljoint stud from the steering
arm.3Loosen the clamp bolt that locks the track
rod end to the inner track rod. Measure the
length of the track rod end, or paint an
alignment mark on the threads to ensure the
track rod end is refitted in the same position
(see illustration). Unscrew the track rod end
from the inner track rod.
4Refitting is the reverse of removal. Make
sure the mark you made on the threads of the
track rod end is aligned correctly, if
applicable. If you measured the track rod end,
make sure it is refitted to the same distance.
5Have the toe-in checked and, if necessary,
adjusted at a dealer service department or
qualified garage.
5-Series models
6Measure the length of the track rod and
record your measurement, or paint an
alignment mark on the threads to ensure the
track rod end is refitted in the same position
(see illustration). Loosen the clamp bolt.
7Use a balljoint separator or a puller to
separate the track rod end from the steering
arm (see illustration).
8Unscrew the track rod end.
9Refitting is the reverse of removal. Make
sure you align the paint mark made on the
threads of the track rod end, if applicable. If
you measured the track rod end, make sure it
is refitted to the same distance.
10Have the toe-in checked and, if
necessary, adjusted at a dealer service
department or qualified garage.
18 Steering gear boots
(3-Series)- renewal
4
1Remove the track rod ends (see Sec-
tion 17).
2Cut the boot clamps at both ends of the old
boots, and slide off the boots.
3While the boots are removed, inspect the
seals in the end of the steering gear. If they’releaking, renew the steering gear (see Sec-
tion 19).
4Slide the new boots into place and fit new
boot clamps.
5Refit the track rod ends (see Section 17).
19 Rack-and-pinion steering
gear (3-Series)-
removal and refitting
4
Removal
1Loosen but do not remove the wheel bolts,
raise the vehicle and support it securely on
axle stands. Remove the front wheels.
2Mark the lower universal joint on the
steering shaft and the pinion shaft, to ensure
proper alignment when they’re reassembled.
Remove the nut and bolt that attach the lower
end of the universal joint shaft to the steering
gear pinion shaft. Loosen the bolt and nut at
the upper end of the universal joint shaft. Slide
the universal joint shaft up a little, disengage it
from the pinion shaft, and remove it. Inspect
the universal joints and the rubber coupling
for wear. If any of them are worn or defective,
renew the universal joint shaft.
3On power steering models, using a large
Suspension and steering systems 10•13
17.6 Measure the length of the track rod
and record your measurement, or paint an
alignment mark on the threads to ensure
the track rod end is refitted in the same
position, then loosen the clamp bolt
(arrowed)17.3 Loosen the clamp bolt (arrowed) that
locks the track rod end to the inner track
rod. Paint an alignment mark on the
threads, to ensure the track rod end is
refitted in the same position, and
unscrew the track rod end from the inner
track rod17.2 Loosen the nut on the track rod
balljoint stud. For preference use a
balljoint separator; otherwise, give the
steering arm a few light blows with a
hammer to release the balljoint stud.
Remove the nut, and separate the balljoint
stud from the steering arm
17.7 Using a puller to separate the track
rod end from the steering arm
10

syringe or hand pump, empty the power
steering fluid reservoir.
4On power steering models, remove the
banjo bolts and disconnect the power
steering pressure and return lines from the
steering gear. Place a container under the
lines to catch spilled fluid. Plug the lines to
prevent excessive fluid loss and
contamination. Discard the sealing washers
(new ones should be used when
reassembling).
5Disconnect the track rod ends from the
steering arms (see Section 17).
6Remove the nuts and bolts from the
steering gear mounting brackets (see
illustration). Discard the old nuts.
7Withdraw the assembly from beneath the
vehicle. Take care not to damage the steering
gear boots.
Refitting
8Refitting is the reverse of removal. Make
sure the marks you made on the lower
universal joint and the pinion shaft are aligned
before you tighten the clamping bolts for the
upper and lower universal joints. Use new
self-locking nuts on the steering rackmounting bolts, and new sealing washers on
the hydraulic line fittings. Tighten the
mounting bolts, the track rod end nuts and the
universal joint shaft clamping bolts to the
torque values listed in this Chapter’s Specifi-
cations.
9Lower the vehicle to the ground.
10On power steering models, fill the
reservoir with the recommended fluid (see
Chapter 1) and bleed the power steering
system (see Section 23).
11It’s a good idea to have the front wheel
alignment checked by a dealer service
department or qualified garage.
20 Steering linkage (5-Series)-
inspection, removal and
refitting
4
Inspection
1Raise the vehicle and place it securely on
axle stands.
2Firmly grasp each front tyre at the top and
bottom, then at the front and rear, and check
for play in the steering linkage by rocking the
tyre back and forth. There should be little or
no play in any of the linkage balljoints. Inspect
the Pitman arm, the idler arm, the centre track
rod, the inner track rods, the track rod ends
and the steering arms for any obvious
damage. Try forcing the linkage parts in
opposite directions from one another. There
should be no play between any of them. If any
of the parts are bent or damaged in any way,
or if any of the balljoints are worn, renew the
parts concerned.
Removal
3Before dismantling the steering linkage,
obtain a suitable balljoint separator. A two-jaw
puller or a wedge-type tool will work (although
the wedge-type tends to tear the balljoint
boots). Sometimes, you can also jar a balljoint
taper pin free from its eye by striking opposite
sides of the eye simultaneously with two large
hammers, but the space available to do this is
limited, and the balljoint stud sometimessticks to the eye because of rust and dirt.
There is also a risk of damaging the
component being struck.
4To remove the outer track rods, disconnect
the track rod ends from the steering arms (see
Section 17). Remove the nut that attaches the
balljoint on the inner end of each outer track
rod to the centre track rod (see illustration).
Using a balljoint separator, disconnect the
outer track rods from the centre track rod. If
you’re renewing the balljoint at either end of
the outer track rods, paint or scribe alignment
marks on the threads to mark their respective
positions as a guide to adjustment during
reassembly (see illustration 17.3).
5To remove the centre track rod, remove the
nuts that attach the centre track rod balljoints
to the Pitman arm and the idler arm, and use a
balljoint separator to disconnect the balljoints
from the two arms.
6To remove the Pitman arm, you’ll have to
remove the steering box first (see Section 21).
Look for match marks between the sector
shaft and arm. If there aren’t any, scribe a
mark across the bottom face of both parts.
Remove the Pitman arm pinch-bolt and nut,
then remove the arm with a puller.
7To unbolt the idler arm, first remove the
small cover bolted to the top of the subframe
crossmember. Put a spanner on the bolt, and
remove the nut recessed into the underside of
the subframe crossmember (see illustration).
Check the idler arm rubber bush for wear. If
it’s damaged or worn, renew it.
8Check each balljoint for excessive play or
stiffness, and for split or deteriorated rubber
dust boots. Renew all worn or damaged
balljoints. The inner and outer track rod ends
on the outer track rods can be renewed
individually; if either balljoint on the centre
track rod is damaged or worn, you must
renew the centre track rod.
Refitting
9Refitting is the reverse of the removal
procedure, but observe the following points:
a) Realign the match marks on the Pitman
arm and the steering box sector shaft
when reassembling them.
b) If you’re fitting new inner or outer track
rod ends on the outer track rods, position
them so that the match marks made
during dismantling are aligned, and make
sure they are equally spaced on each
side.
c) Position the track rod end balljoint studs
on the outer track rods at an angle of 90°
to each other.
d) Make sure the left and right outer track
rods are equal in length when they are
fitted.
e) Tighten all retaining bolts to the torque
values listed in this Chapter’s Specifi-
cations.
f) When reassembly of the linkage is
complete, have the front wheel alignment
checked, and if necessary, adjusted.
10•14 Suspension and steering systems
20.7 To unbolt the idler arm from the
subframe crossmember, remove this nut
(arrowed)
20.4 To remove an outer track rod,
remove this nut (arrowed) from the end of
the centre track rod, and use a balljoint
separator to separate the balljoint stud
from the centre track rod (if you’re
renewing the inner track rod end, mark the
threads with paint before loosening the
clamp bolt and nut)
19.6 Rack-and-pinion steering gear
mounting bolts (arrowed) - 3-Series
models - (self-locking nuts not visible in
this photo)

21 Steering box (5-Series)-
removal and refitting
4
Removal
Note:If you find that the steering box is
defective, it is not recommended that you
overhaul it. Because of the special tools
needed to do the job, it is best to let your
dealer service department overhaul it for you
(otherwise, fit a new unit). Removal and
refitting the steering box is outlined here.
1On 5-Series E28 (“old-shape”) models,
discharge the hydraulic system by depressing
the brake pedal about 20 times.
2Using a large syringe or hand pump, empty
the power steering fluid reservoir (see Chap-
ter 1).
3Raise the front of the vehicle and support it
securely on axle stands.
4Support the front of the engine with a trolley
jack. Place a block of wood between the jack
head and the sump to protect the sump from
damage.
5Remove the pivot bolts from the inner ends
of the front control arms (see Section 4).
6Remove the nuts from the left and right
engine mountings (see Chapter 2).
7Remove the mounting bolts (two on each
side on earlier models, three on each side on
later models) from the subframe crossmember
(see illustration)and remove the subframe.
8Remove the nuts and bolts that secure the
universal joint shaft to the steering box worm
shaft. Slide the universal joint shaft up and off
the worm shaft. Inspect the universal joint
shaft for wear. If it’s stiff or worn, renew it.
9Remove the banjo bolts, and disconnect
the hydraulic pressure line and the return line
from the box (see illustration). Plug the ends
of the lines to prevent fluid loss and
contamination. Discard the sealing washers -
new ones should be used when reassembling.
10Remove the steering box retaining bolts
(see illustrations)and remove the steering
box.
11If it’s necessary to detach the Pitman arm
from the box sector shaft (to have the box
serviced or to switch the arm to a new orrebuilt unit), make a match mark across the
two for correct reassembly. Remove the
Pitman arm retaining nut and washer. Use a
puller to withdraw the arm if necessary.
Refitting
12Refit the Pitman arm by aligning the
match marks made during removal, then
tighten the nut to the torque listed in this
Chapter’s Specifications.
13When fitted the Pitman arm must not have
any measurable endfloat within 100° from the
neutral position. If play exists, have the
following parts checked:
a) Sector shaft and bearings (for wear)
b) Thrust washer and adjuster bolt head (for
wear)
c) Ball nut and worm shaft (for wear)
14Refit the steering box. Align the mark on
the pinion gear shaft with the mark on the
universal joint shaft, and tighten the steering
box bolts to the torque listed in this Chapter’s
Specifications.
15The remainder of refitting is the reverse of
removal. Be sure to use new self-locking nuts
on the universal joint shaft, the centre track
rod, the steering box and the crossmember.
Also, use new sealing washers on the
hydraulic line fittings.
16Refer to Chapter 1 and fill the powersteering reservoir with the recommended
fluid, then bleed the system as described in
Section 23. Check for leakage from the lines
and connections.22 Power steering pump-
removal and refitting
1
Removal
1Raise the vehicle and support it securely on
axle stands. Remove the engine undertray.
2On 5-Series E28 (“old-shape”) models,
discharge the hydraulic system by depressing
the brake pedal about 20 times before
loosening the hydraulic line fittings.
3Disconnect the fluid return hose, and drain
the power steering fluid from the reservoir into
a clean container. Disconnect the pressure
line from the pump.
4If you need to remove the pulley from the
pump, push on the power steering pump
drivebelt by hand to increase the tension, and
unscrew the pulley nuts or bolts.
5Loosen the power steering pump drivebelt
tensioner bolt, and remove the drivebelt (see
Chapter 1).
6Remove the mounting bolts (see
illustrations)and detach the power steering
pump.
Suspension and steering systems 10•15
21.10a This bolt (arrowed) secures the
steering box to the subframe
crossmember. The nut, not visible in this
photo, is accessed through a hole in the
crossmember (engine removed for clarity,
left-hand-drive shown)21.9 Disconnect the power steering
pressure line fitting (right arrow) and the
return line fitting (left arrow). Note that the
return line fitting banjo bolt is larger than
the bolt for the pressure line fitting (left-
hand-drive shown)21.7 Subframe crossmember bolts
(arrowed)
22.6a Typical 3-Series power steering
pump adjusting bolt (arrowed) . . .
21.10b This bolt (arrowed) attaches the
steering box to the body (the nut, not
visible in this photo, is on the front side of
the steering box)
10

SI board is a self-contained computer which
includes a chip and batteries.
The rechargeable SI board nickel cadmium
(nicad) batteries maintain power to the
computer memory in the event of a power
drop (such as during starting) or complete
power loss (such as a dead or disconnected
battery) (see illustration). This assures power
so the computer can continue to keep track of
mileage and turn the lights on at the proper
interval.
The batteries have a life of approximately
six years, at which time they must be replaced
with new ones. Also, since they are recharged
by the engine charging system, they can run
down prematurely if power is cut off for some
reason (such as a blown fuse, a fault in the
wiring, or extended storage of the vehicle).
Excessive heat or cold can also shorten
battery life, with heat the greatest enemy.
Extreme heat can cause the batteries to
actually split open, allowing acid to drip into
the instrument cluster.
Several instruments controlled by the SI
board can be affected by low or discharged
batteries. Symptoms of low or dead SI board
batteries can include inconsistent tachometer
and temperature gauge readings, background
radio noise, and the inability to turn the
service lights off with the special tool.
Although only complete SI boards are
available from the manufacturer, batteries are
available separately from aftermarket sources.
While it is possible for the home mechanic to
renew the batteries, they are soldered to the
board, so unless you are skilled at this and
have the proper tools, this job should be left
to an experienced electronics technician.
Considerable savings can be realised by
removing the instrument cluster (see
Section 10) and taking it to an electronics
specialist.
Caution: the instrument cluster
and components are very
susceptible to damage from
static electricity. Make sure you
are earthed and have discharged any
static electricity (by touching an object
such as a metal water pipe) before
touching the cluster components.12 Headlights- bulb renewal
1
Caution: If the radio in your
vehicle is equipped with an anti-
theft system, make sure you have
the correct activation code
before disconnecting the battery, Refer to
the information on page 0-7 at the front of
this manual before detaching the cable.
Note: If, after connecting the battery, the
wrong language appears on the instrument
panel display, refer to page 0-7 for the
language resetting procedure.
1Disconnect the battery negative cable.
Sealed-beam type
2Remove the grille (see Chapter 11).
3Remove the headlight retainer screws,
taking care not to disturb the adjustment
screws.
4Remove the retainer and pull the headlight
out enough to allow the connector to be
unplugged.
5Remove the headlight.
6To refit the headlight, plug the connector in,
place the headlight in position, and refit the
retainer and screws. Tighten the screws
securely.7Refit the grille. Connect the battery negative
cable.
Halogen bulb type
Warning: Halogen gas-filled bulbs
are under pressure, and may
shatter if the surface is scratched
or the bulb is dropped. Wear eye
protection, and handle the bulbs carefully,
grasping only the base whenever possible.
Do not touch the surface of the bulb with
your fingers, because the oil from your
skin could cause it to overheat and fail
prematurely.
8From behind the headlight assembly,
remove the outer cover (see illustration).
9Twist and release the inner cover from the
rear of the headlight (see illustration).
10Disconnect the wire from the rear of the
headlight bulb (see illustration).
11Release the clips, and withdraw the bulb
from the headlight unit (see illustration).
12Fit the new bulb using a reversal of the
removal procedure. Make sure that the clips
engage the bulb correctly.
13Connect the battery negative cable.
Body electrical systems 12•5
12.9 Twist and release the headlight inner
cover12.8 Removing the headlight rear outer
cover (3-Series shown)11.2 These batteries (arrowed) power the
Service Indicator (SI) board
12.11 Removing the headlight bulb (do not
touch the surface of the bulb with your
fingers)12.10 Disconnecting the wire from the rear
of the headlight bulb
12
If you do touch the headlamp
bulb surface, clean it with
methylated spirit.