Removal and installation the rear shock absorber and coil spring assembly (BMW 5 Series E28)

Removal

Although shock absorbers do not always wear out at the same time, be sure to replace the left and right shock absorbers in pairs to prevent handling problems and changes in the normal ride of your vehicle.

1. Loosen the wheel mounting bolts, then block the front wheels. Jack up the vehicle and securely place it on axle stands. Remove the wheels.



2. Loosen the lower shock absorber mounting bolt.



3. On earlier models, fold back the trim inside the luggage compartment enough to gain access to the upper mounting nuts. On later models, this is done by first removing the rear seat cushion (see chapter Body), then loosen the two bolts securing the rear seat back and remove the back. Support the trailing arm with a jack and loosen the upper mounting nuts.



4. Lower the jack and remove the shock absorber and spacer. To separate the shock absorber from the spring, refer to Section Replacing a strut or shock absorber/coil spring.

Installation

1. Install in reverse order. Don't forget to install the spacer between the upper end of the shock absorber and the body. Tighten the upper nuts to the required torque. Do not tighten the lower bolt until the car is lowered to the ground.

2. Lower the vehicle to normal operating height and tighten the lower bolt to the specified torque.