Re: How do you get off the center link?....more (archive)

If you don't use a tie rod puller you will damage the protective boot. The only way not to use a tie rod puller is to change everything: idler arm, steering arms, center link and having an extra steeering box arm.

Very easy with a tie rod puller.

More info from my web site:

The steering links in the E34 is a complex assembly of tie rods. If part of the links are changed, you should have a wheel alignment.

There is no maintenance to the steering links. If a dust boot looses it's grease or is damaged you should replace it or change the part. The only bushing wear is in the Idler arm

Idler arm Cost: $ Difficulty: *
Tie rod puller
Ratchet and 17mm socket
Two new self locking nut
There is a bushing that can wear in the idler arm. You can buy it and presse it on the old arm, but for the difference of price it is easier to buy a brand new idler arm.
Changing the idler arm is an easy job. Place the front of the car on jacks or use ramps, unbolt the nut attaching the arm to the centre tie rod then use a tie rod puller to press it out. Remove the 17mm mounting bolt to the frame then remove the Ider arm.

Installation is reverse of removal.

In any model, you don't have to remove any part of the exhaust line.

Centre tie rod Cost: $ Difficulty: *
Tie rod puller
Ratchet and 17mm socket
Four new self locking nuts
Remove the four 17mm nuts then use the tie rod puller to remove the centre tie rod from the pitman arm, idler arm and the two tie rods.
You cannot change the tie rods on the centre tie rod, you will have to change the complete assembly. Installation is reverse of removal.

Pitman arm Cost: $ Difficulty: ***
There is no reason to remove or change the pitman arm, but it is attache to the centre tie rod by and to the steering box. See steering box removal if you want to change it.

Tie rods Cost: $ Difficulty: *
Tie rod puller
Ratchet and 17mm socket
Two new self locking nuts
Front wheels adjustment needed
Both left and right Tie rods are the same. Use a jack to lift the concerned side, secure it with stands. Remove the wheel, loose the inner and outer 17mm bolts. Use the tie rod puller to remove both tie rods. Install the new one and tighten the bolts.
It's time for a front wheels adjustment.

'89 535i E34 website on progress

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