Removing and Installing Complete Front Axle

Removing and installing complete front axle

Caution:
After installation, align front axle and fill power steering system.

Recycling:
- Observe country-specific waste disposal regulations.
- Draw hydraulic fluid out of container - cannot be reused - and unfasten return line on container.

Unscrew pressure pipe on steering gear.
Remove steering spindle from steering gear, refer to Steering Shaft.
Airbag-remove steering wheel, refer to steering wheel.
Remove left and right brake caliper - lines remain connected - and tie up against body, refer to Brakes.
Disconnecting ABS impulse sensor line, refer to Brakes; Antilock Brake System.





Stabilizer connection on spring strut:
Unscrew left and right nuts and hold supports on spring struts with adhesive tape.

Installation:
Wrench surface (1) on ball head must be parallel to spring-strut axis. Replace self-locking nuts. Tightening torque, refer to Specifications.





Stabilizer connection on control arm:
Unscrew left and right nuts (1).

Installation:
Replace self-locking nuts (1). Fit shim (2). Tightening torque, refer to Specifications.





Unscrew left and right bolts.

Installation:
Use washers.
Tightening torque, refer to Specifications.

Suspend engine in installation position with special tool.
Removing oil sump.
Unscrew left and right engine mounts.





If necessary, remove the reinforcing cross struts (Convertible/Roadster).
Unscrew left and right bolts.

Installation:
Up to model year 93
1. Remove paint from contact surfaces of front axle and engine support.
2. Replace 4 screws.
3. Coat screws on thread and head contact point with assembly paste LM 48, Part No. 81 22 9 400 207.
Lubrication is not necessary when bolts 1 141 214 are used.
4. Install 4 new toothed ring discs between front axle and engine carrier, even if no toothed ring discs were fitted previously.
Tightening torque, refer to Specifications.

Installation:
Since 1993 models:
Four ring-type lock washers are omitted due to tapered connection at both rear mounting points.
Screws M12 X 1.5 X 95 9.8
Tightening torque, refer to Specifications.

Note: Damaged threads in engine support should be repaired with Helicoil thread inserts M12 x 1.5.





Unscrew left and right nuts.
Lower trolley jack slowly.

Caution: Spring struts must not tilt outwards or sag - ball joints could be damaged.

Installation:
Replace self-locking nuts.
Tightening torque, refer to Specifications.

Caution: M3: Long sheet-metal flange on thrust bearing must point in forward direction.