BMW X5: Mechanical Steering Gear
INFORMATION ON REPLACING STEERING GEAR AFTER ACCIDENT DAMAGE
Facts:
In the event of accidents or driving conditions similar to accidents,
shocklike loads can cause different types of
damage to steering gears. When a steering gear is externally undamaged, it is
sometimes only possible to
identify damage with great difficulty and with great effort. However, damage of
this nature poses an
unacceptable risk to the vehicle because it can result in failure of the
steering system.
Because of the disproportionate amount of effort involved, it is generally not
sensible to check thoroughly all
the individual components of the steering gear and as an alternative it is
necessary to take into account other
components which can be checked more easily.
Procedure:
The steering gear must be replaced if one or more of the following points
apply:
- Visible or noticeable damage to the steering gear
- Unacceptable torque increase and jamming when the steering gear is
turned from lock to lock (without
hydraulic assistance)
- Permissible tolerances exceeded during axle/wheel alignment check (if
necessary, include alignment
record with invoice / report)
- Fire damage
- Damage, permanent deformation or fractures to:
- Wheel rims in the event of a negative result from the wheel/axle
alignment check
- Spring struts, steering knuckles, wheel carriers
- Control arms
- Compression or tension struts or stabilizer bars with this function
- Body-side screwing/bolting points for wheel guide/control components
- Front axle carrier
- Pitman arms
- Tie rods
- Steering gear fixtures
- Steering column
This guideline is binding for all accident repairs to BMW and MINI vehicles.
NOTE: If the steering gear replacement work which is required for
safety reasons is
refused by the customer or an insurance company for cost reasons, a
memorandum to that effect must be drawn up and countersigned by the party
bearing the costs of the accident repair.
IMPORTANT: The vehicle's type approval will be invalidated whenever the
function of any of
its safety components is compromised!
REPLACING GAITER FOR STEERING GEAR ON LEFT OR RIGHT
IMPORTANT: The power steering gear must be replaced if the polished
surface of the rack is
damaged (e.g. by corrosion)!
Necessary preliminary tasks:
- Remove tie rod end.
- Remove lower steering gear cover.
Clean tie rod.
Release band clamp (1) and ear clip (3).
Detach gaiter (2) from tie rod.
Installation:
Clean rack and check surface for damage (e.g. by corrosion).
Grease rack.
Clean tie rod and apply grease to taper.
NOTE: This ensures that the gaiter is not rotated when the tie rod is
rotated.
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Fig. 33: Identifying Band Clamp, Gaiter And Ear Clip
After installation:
- Perform CHASSIS ALIGNMENT CHECK.
- Carry out steering angle sensor adjustment/adjustment for active front
steering.
READ NEXT:
Facts:
In the event of accidents or driving conditions similar to accidents,
shocklike loads can cause different types of
damage to steering gears. When a steering gear is externally undamaged, it is
WARNING: Danger to life!
Mount securing fixture for vehicle on lifting platform to prevent the
vehicle from slipping off or tilting down.
Secure engine in installation position to prevent it from fal
SEE MORE:
Read contents of Body, General.
Spot-weld bonding is used on this vehicle. Observe specific procedure.
Remove or cover those vehicle components in the repair area which are
susceptible to heat or dust.
Use only approved spot-welding apparatus for repairs!
Place vehicle on straightening bench.
F
REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING REAR STABILIZER
Necessary preliminary tasks:
Remove both stabilizer links from stabilizer.
Release screws (1).
Replacement only: Remove both rubber mounts from stabilizer.
Turn stabilizer (2) and remove sideways.
Installation:
Check both rubber mounts for damage