Suspension: Description and Operation

540i Front Suspension







The added weight on the front end of the 540i requires that the front carrier be made of steel. The design of the front carrier/axle assembly is similar to the E38. However, aluminum components are used on the 540i wherever possible.

The thrust rod principle is retained with the 540i system as well as the recirculating ball steering gearbox. Compared to the E38 system, the E39 uses aluminum components in the following areas:

- Steering knuckles
- Outer strut tube
- Spring pad