HELP! -- steering column pinch bolt

yakev724 · 01-27-2011, 09:38 PM

So I've decided to tackle my (very annoying) sticking steering wheel lock, also took a bunch of photos as I know there are quite a few people (especially overseas) with the problem and no alternatives.

I've come to actually remove the steering column out of the car, but there is a pinch bolt connecting the bottom of the steering column to the next 'lower joint assembly'. Basically, this pinch bolt is lined up exactly with the hole in the firewall and there is not nearly enough space to get a ratchet with the proper E8 torx socket on. Loosening the column allows for moving it to one side of the cutout, but doesn't help much. Does not slide in or out.

View from footwell, bolt in question facing camera

2 realoem diagrams showing the 2 parts that are connected (pinch bolt is in 2nd photo)

Chriztofor · 01-28-2011, 06:01 AM

Solution is simple, notch a cut-out, in the shape of a square, using a rotary tool.

Chriztofor · 01-28-2011, 06:07 AM

Another idea, instead of a socket use a torx wrench http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00999659000P

yakev724 · 01-28-2011, 07:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chriztofor

Another idea, instead of a socket use a torx wrench http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00999659000P

Almost exactly what I used today after a trip to SEARS, thanks!

01-27-2011, 09:38 PM	#1
yakev724 Brigadier General 231 Rep 3,561 Posts Drives: 15 S3 Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: NYC iTrader: (49)	HELP! -- steering column pinch bolt So I've decided to tackle my (very annoying) sticking steering wheel lock, also took a bunch of photos as I know there are quite a few people (especially overseas) with the problem and no alternatives. I've come to actually remove the steering column out of the car, but there is a pinch bolt connecting the bottom of the steering column to the next 'lower joint assembly'. Basically, this pinch bolt is lined up exactly with the hole in the firewall and there is not nearly enough space to get a ratchet with the proper E8 torx socket on. Loosening the column allows for moving it to one side of the cutout, but doesn't help much. Does not slide in or out. View from footwell, bolt in question facing camera 2 realoem diagrams showing the 2 parts that are connected (pinch bolt is in 2nd photo) Last edited by yakev724; 05-26-2011 at 11:30 PM..
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01-28-2011, 06:01 AM	#2
Chriztofor Colonel 103 Rep 2,783 Posts Drives: '06 325i and '13 X5 Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: Chicago Burbs iTrader: (1)	Solution is simple, notch a cut-out, in the shape of a square, using a rotary tool. __________________ If no codes are being thrown use Chevron Techron fuel injector cleaner (concentrate). It solves rpm fluctuating upon cold start-up. Also, for most BMW problems start off by scanning your car with the Peake Research Tool. It contains the actual BMW codes. If you want to register a newly installed battery for free (just buy a $10 cable) and google/download BMWLogger
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01-28-2011, 06:07 AM	#3
Chriztofor Colonel 103 Rep 2,783 Posts Drives: '06 325i and '13 X5 Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: Chicago Burbs iTrader: (1)	Another idea, instead of a socket use a torx wrench http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00999659000P __________________ If no codes are being thrown use Chevron Techron fuel injector cleaner (concentrate). It solves rpm fluctuating upon cold start-up. Also, for most BMW problems start off by scanning your car with the Peake Research Tool. It contains the actual BMW codes. If you want to register a newly installed battery for free (just buy a $10 cable) and google/download BMWLogger
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