Replacing struts on an iX (part I)

[jase007]

I decided it was time to replace the Boge turbo gas struts on my 1990 325iX (to put in Koni sport adjustables). I had already added Konis shocks to the rears (with E46 shock tower mounts).
Rear shocks

It is obviously a little more complicated than a regular E30 b/c you have an axle passing throught the front hub

Here is my procedure. Note: some of the pictures may not track / match the description (i.e. the rotor may still be on when I have said to remove it earlier in the process). Also, torque values for re-install are in the Bentley manual offered by our host. If you don't have it, BUY IT NOW.

Of course, this description is only a guide, consult a professional if you are unsure about any part; your results may vary; this was my experience and is intended to be a guide not the "gospel"; certain tricks / time savers have been omitted for brevity; etc...

Take a deep breath (and think of the $ you'll save on labor...)

1. remove wheel center caps (parking brake on & in gear), remove axle nut lock washers and break axle nuts loose (32mm socket & 1/2" breaker bar). Break lug bolts loose too.

2. jack up car and support with jack stands, remove wheels.

3. remove calipers [17 mm bolts] and properly suspend using wire or bungee.

4. remove rotors [allen head bolt 5 or 6mm].

5. remove ABS sensors from hubs and attachments to struts [same size allen head bolt as #4].

note: tie rod ball joint already disconnected in picture and 3-jaw is resting on rotor.


6. remove break pad sensor wire from clips in dust shield and on strut.

7. disconnect sway bar drop link to sway bar at sway bar connection (thin 17mm wrench on drop link side to stop from rotating in socket).



8. remove dust shield (good time to modify for brake duct hoses if you are tracking the car )

Take a break, have a drink, get something to eat.

9. jack up under control arm (CA) outer ball joint (BJ) and break nut loose. (in pic rotor and dust shield are still on)



Knock control arm BJ loose (may need bigger hammer or pickle fork here).



(con't in 2nd post)