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Coilover install

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Old 07-23-2009, 08:04 AM
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Anybody do their own installs? I was just curious b/c I've done my own install on my other cars, but was wondering how difficult it is for the e60?
Old 07-23-2009, 08:25 AM
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i haven't done coilovers but i just installed my springs and sports shocks in my 545, and i can tell you it's not that difficult of an installation. and since you've done coilovers before, this shouldn't be too hard. it is involved work (as you already know) so you'll be filthy and probably sore (muscle aches) the next day.

if i can remember, there should really be only 3 major bolts to remove and the shocks are out. with your basic mechanics tools (breaker bar and torque wrench a must) you should be done in a day (all fours). good luck
Old 07-23-2009, 08:33 AM
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Originally Posted by e6t.lab.rat' post='951621' date='Jul 23 2009, 09:25 AM
i haven't done coilovers but i just installed my springs and sports shocks in my 545, and i can tell you it's not that difficult of an installation. and since you've done coilovers before, this shouldn't be too hard. it is involved work (as you already know) so you'll be filthy and probably sore (muscle aches) the next day.

if i can remember, there should really be only 3 major bolts to remove and the shocks are out. with your basic mechanics tools (breaker bar and torque wrench a must) you should be done in a day (all fours). good luck
Hmmm interesting, I think the hardest part is removing them. I was told the rears are a PITA to remove. Is there any truth to that? Since I'll be getting a full coilover, it should be as simple as taking them off and replacing with the new ones.
Old 07-23-2009, 08:46 AM
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what really made it difficult is the wheel well liner. it's that black plastic covering the inside of wheel well. i removed about 2-3 screws and bent the heck (pulled down without removing) out of it to pull the struts out. had to do a lot of manuvering in and out, up and down, diff. angles etc. etc. if it wasn't for that liner your struts would be out in a snap.

oh, i almost forgot to mention the side with the gas tank filler. this is the side that'll bust you chops. that filler pipe is in the way fo' sho but somehow i managed to get it out. you'll encounter the same problem when reinstalling BUT it can be done. you gotta have alot of patience and time. just make sure you have another car just in case before tackleing this job.
Old 07-23-2009, 11:35 AM
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My Ride: I have an 05 545i. It's a manual with a few options. This is my first BMW but I don't know how I'll ever be able to switch to something else.
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Agree with the backup car, you never know when something will pop up and you need a to go somewhere or you need a certain part and need to go out and buy it ASAP.

I spent a good day doing the spring/strut install on my integra back in the day, but it was def a good learning experience.
Old 07-24-2009, 09:59 AM
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My Ride: 05 E60 520iA.Bilstein B12 who lowers 35-25mm.M-tech full body kit.M6 replikka 19*8,5 and 9,5.Michelin sport tiers 245 and 275.Vr6+LCI ligths.M5 facelift steering wheel with heating.New full paint.M5 mirrors.
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Originally Posted by e6t.lab.rat' post='951644' date='Jul 23 2009, 12:46 PM
what really made it difficult is the wheel well liner. it's that black plastic covering the inside of wheel well. i removed about 2-3 screws and bent the heck (pulled down without removing) out of it to pull the struts out. had to do a lot of manuvering in and out, up and down, diff. angles etc. etc. if it wasn't for that liner your struts would be out in a snap.

oh, i almost forgot to mention the side with the gas tank filler. this is the side that'll bust you chops. that filler pipe is in the way fo' sho but somehow i managed to get it out. you'll encounter the same problem when reinstalling BUT it can be done. you gotta have alot of patience and time. just make sure you have another car just in case before tackleing this job.
You dont have to remove the wheel well liner on the E60.
Old 07-24-2009, 01:34 PM
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My Ride: I have an 05 545i. It's a manual with a few options. This is my first BMW but I don't know how I'll ever be able to switch to something else.
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Care to explain why not?
Old 07-24-2009, 01:36 PM
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^^^ haha I was thinking the same thing.
Old 07-25-2009, 12:26 AM
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My Ride: 05 E60 520iA.Bilstein B12 who lowers 35-25mm.M-tech full body kit.M6 replikka 19*8,5 and 9,5.Michelin sport tiers 245 and 275.Vr6+LCI ligths.M5 facelift steering wheel with heating.New full paint.M5 mirrors.
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Originally Posted by kaiten408' post='953367' date='Jul 24 2009, 05:34 PM
Care to explain why not?
There is so much spase that you can live them.I just mountet a Bilstein B12 to my E60.You can even get to the top shock from the trunk,you just have to remome a foam rubber thing to get to the 3ps of 13 mm.
Old 09-05-2009, 03:44 PM
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Wish there is an actual DIY with pictures. I'm ready to install my new M Sport suspension.
Coilover install-2009_0904_16521aa.jpg


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