Is replacing front struts the same as non-xi models?

Topshelf1 · 08-27-2009, 10:14 AM

Hey guys, I'm debating if I should replace the front struts on the wife's E91 myself, or just pay to have them done. Looking at the DIY's for the RWD models it doesn't appear to be that complicated. But I'm guessing there's going to be more involved with our xDrive suspensions. Any thoughts on doing this? I can't find a single DIY anywhere for this.

Topshelf1 · 08-30-2009, 10:51 AM

Nobody has any information on this? Just looked up the steps in the TIS and compared it to the RWD version. Looks like there are a few things for the RWD version that are supposed to be removed according to TIS that aren't in the DIY's. (control arm, tie rod and tension strut). AWD lists control arm, tie rod and guide joint (stabilizer link is on both and removed in the DIY). So I'm just wondering if I can simply remove the stabilizer link and drop the knuckle enough to get the strut out, or if I really have to disconnect everything else.

Getagrip · 09-01-2009, 12:57 AM

Yes, you can disconnect the sway bar link and just drop the knuckle.
I've installed suspension on my car twice. First time H&R sport springs, then KW V3.

Topshelf1 · 09-01-2009, 08:27 AM

Thanks a ton Getagrip. That's absolutely great to hear.

08-27-2009, 10:14 AM	#1
Topshelf1 Private 16 Rep 99 Posts Drives: 2006 Z4 Coupe/2006 325xiT Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: PA iTrader: (0)	Is replacing front struts the same as non-xi models? Hey guys, I'm debating if I should replace the front struts on the wife's E91 myself, or just pay to have them done. Looking at the DIY's for the RWD models it doesn't appear to be that complicated. But I'm guessing there's going to be more involved with our xDrive suspensions. Any thoughts on doing this? I can't find a single DIY anywhere for this.
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08-30-2009, 10:51 AM	#2
Topshelf1 Private 16 Rep 99 Posts Drives: 2006 Z4 Coupe/2006 325xiT Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: PA iTrader: (0)	Nobody has any information on this? Just looked up the steps in the TIS and compared it to the RWD version. Looks like there are a few things for the RWD version that are supposed to be removed according to TIS that aren't in the DIY's. (control arm, tie rod and tension strut). AWD lists control arm, tie rod and guide joint (stabilizer link is on both and removed in the DIY). So I'm just wondering if I can simply remove the stabilizer link and drop the knuckle enough to get the strut out, or if I really have to disconnect everything else.
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09-01-2009, 12:57 AM	#3
Getagrip Get a grip. Get Xdrive. 14 Rep 529 Posts Drives: 330xi Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Anchorage, Alaska iTrader: (0) Garage List 2006 330xi [0.00] 2003 330xi [0.00]	Yes, you can disconnect the sway bar link and just drop the knuckle. I've installed suspension on my car twice. First time H&R sport springs, then KW V3. __________________ 2006 330xi current
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09-01-2009, 08:27 AM	#4
Topshelf1 Private 16 Rep 99 Posts Drives: 2006 Z4 Coupe/2006 325xiT Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: PA iTrader: (0)	Thanks a ton Getagrip. That's absolutely great to hear.
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