Re:BMW 528E

[ASparks106@xxxxxxx]

While driving my 1985 528E I get a pulsation when the brakes are
applied.  I expected that it was time again for pads and rotors.  I also
experienced a bad vibration when the vehcile exceeds 40 mph.  Maybe a
wheel out of balance? When I arrived home visible smoke and a burning
odor was seen eminating  from the right front wheel.   Any ideas why the
smoking occurred?  Could this be a bad wheel bearing?  Any ideas would
be appreciated before I have the car fixed.  I expect that I will have
to replace pads, rotors, and wheel bearings.  What have I missed?  Any
suggestions on pads and rotors that will keep me from replacing them
each year?.  I go through a set of pads and rotors every year.  Every
other vehcile I own the pads and rotors last over 3 years (30,000
miles).  I plan on keeping this vechile as a daily driver.  It usually
is bulletproof.
    
    The pulsating is no doubt caused by worn tie rod ends and/or control arm 
bushings.  These wear regularly and must be replaced.  The front wheel 
bearing is probably bad as well.  It is unusual that you go through a set of 
rotors and pads every year.  Are you sure they are worn or are you taking the 
mechanic's word for it?  The tie rod ends are fairly easy to replace with a 
tie rod puller but you must get the front end realigned afterwards.

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