Re: E34 Front suspension question

[Pat Donahue <pdonahue@xxxxxxxxx>]

Seung asked:
> 
> After having my front struts replaced in my 89 535i, my local mechanic 
> wrote on the ticket, "Idler arm has slight movement, also both sides 
> brake reaction rod has movement and boots have been torn for awhile and 
> grease is full of dirt."
> 
> Does anyone have an idea as to what these terms mean in BMW language? 

Idler arm is, of course, the idler arm which 5 series cars still have
since they're recirculating ball steering versus rack and pinion.  As
far as "brake reaction rods" go I'd have to guess they thrust arm
bushings are shot -- seems to be pretty common on these cars.  I don't
know of _anything_ in the front suspension with "boots" except the dust
caps on the tie rod ends so I'd suggest taking a look at those or a new
mechanic.

Before you try to replace your tie rod ends and idler arm you'll need to
find a proper tool for popping them apart.  I resorted to brute force
and air tools but that isn't the recommended way to go.  There isn't
much room to get in with a pickle fork or a large puller and would guess
there's a specially made tool with a low profile for this.
- -- 
Pat Donahue  CCA 125031
Vienna, VA
'91 M5 4GTFUL
'72 MGB 8LYFGR&

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