Checking, adjusting and replacing the accelerator cable (BMW 5 Series E28)

Examination

1. Disconnect the intake air duct from the throttle body (fuel injection models) or remove the air cleaner (carburetor models).

2. Observe the throttle valve opening when the assistant presses the accelerator pedal all the way down. It should open fully.

3. Release the accelerator pedal and make sure that the throttle valve returns smoothly to the closed position. During its movement, the throttle valve should never touch the body; if it does, the unit should be replaced.

Adjustment

1. Warm up the engine to normal operating temperature, then turn it off. Press the accelerator pedal fully twice, then check the free play of the cable at the carburetor/throttle body. Compare it with the value in Table of sizes and adjustment data at the end of the Guide.



2. If the throttle free play is different from the required value, adjust it by turning the adjusting nut A while holding the nut B (fuel injection engine shown).

3. With the help of an assistant, check that when the accelerator pedal is fully depressed, the throttle valve opens fully.

Replacement

The following paragraphs describe the procedure for fuel injected engines, the procedure for carbureted engines is similar.

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.

If your vehicle's radio is equipped with an anti-theft system, make sure you know the correct activation code before disconnecting the battery. Refer to Section Anti-theft audio system and instrument cluster language.

If a message in another language appears on the instrument panel display after connecting the battery, refer to Section 1 for the language setting procedure Anti-theft audio system and instrument cluster language.

2. Loosen the cable adjuster lock nuts, push the rubber bushing from the rear and disconnect the cable from the bracket located on the intake manifold.



3. Using pliers, squeeze the plastic holder and push it out of the bracket.



4. Turn the throttle valve and unhook the end of the cable from the notch in the valve lever.





5. After removing the cable from the throttle valve assembly, remove the plastic holder from the cable.

6. Working under the dashboard in the driver's seat, disconnect the accelerator cable from the top of the pedal.

7. Route the cable through the dashboard into the passenger compartment.

8. Installation is the reverse of removal. Adjust the cable as described above.

(This article is based on data from the website www.bmwman.ru)