IDENTIFICATION
| Model (Chassis Code) | Engine Size (Code) | |
|---|---|---|
| X3 (E83) | 2.5L (M54) | |
| X3 (E83) | 3.0L (M54) | |
CHASSIS & ENGINE IDENTIFICATION
BMW KINEMATIC DIAGNOSIS SYSTEM
Manufacturer recommends the BMW Kinematic Diagnosis System (KDS) hardware for wheel alignment, which is an integrated part of automotive system concepts. It ensures that work is carried out in a particularly rational manner which is appropriate for BMW requirements. (Scheme 1) System includes the following
- Kinematic Diagnosis System 1.
- Computer.
- Graphical Tablet.
- Equipment Tablet.
- Remote Display.
- Measuring Sensors With CCD Camera.
- Quick-Acting Clamp.
- Rotating/Sliding Plates.
- Sensor Pins.
- Spoiler Adapter.
- Quick-Clamping Units.
- Retainers.
Scheme 1
RIDING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
| CAUTION | On vehicles with air springs, pull fuse of air supply system so there is no regulation. |
Note. On vehicles with electronic chassis controls, all systems should be functional before attempting riding height or wheel alignment adjustment.
Before adjusting alignment, check riding height. Riding height must be checked with vehicle on level floor and tires properly inflated. Load front seats with 150 lbs. (68 kg) each. Load 150 lbs. (68 kg) in center of rear seat. Load 46 lbs. (21 kg) in center of luggage compartment and fill fuel tank.
Measure actual ride-level height from wheel housing lower edge to rim flange at height of wheel center. Determine average value of each wheel after lifting and lowering vehicle body and then average value of axle from these values. Ride height measurement must be within .04" (10 mm) of each side. For specifications, see RIDE HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS .
RIDE HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS
| Application | In. (mm) |
|---|---|
| 17" Rim | 27 (685) |
| 18" Rim | 27.5 (698) |
| 19" Rim | 28 (710) |
| 20" Rim | 28.5 (723) |
RIDE HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS
FRAME & UNDERBODY
Note. (Scheme 2) is not intended to represent the exact structure of each vehicle's frame, underbody or body outline. It is presented only to provide reference points.
The following illustration indicate areas (parts) of the underbody and frame which may be used to raise and support the vehicle, using either floor jack or hoist. These points are indicated by shaded areas on the frame. (Scheme 2)
Scheme 2
OUTERBODY
Those points designated on the outline of the body were specifically designed to facilitate the use of the vehicle's own jack. These jacking points are indicated by circular dots on the outline of the body. (Scheme 2) If using floor jack or hoist, exercise extreme care to avoid damaging outer body shell.
WHEEL ALIGNMENT PROCEDURES
| CAUTION | On vehicles with air springs, pull fuse of air supply system so there is no regulation. |
| CAUTION | On cars equipped with Electronic Damper Control, it is essential after wheel alignment to perform a "steering angle check/adjustment" with the BMW Diagnosis System. |
Note. Prior to performing wheel alignment, perform preliminary visual and mechanical inspection of wheels, tires, riding height and suspension components.
FRONT ALIGNMENT & CAMBER ADJUSTMENT
Toe-in adjustment is performed at the tie rods. If necessary, camber is corrected by driving out the pin on the strut tower (spring cup). (Scheme 3)
Scheme 3
REAR ALIGNMENT
Camber is adjusted by an eccentric element on lower control arm at axle carrier connection. (Scheme 4)
Scheme 4
TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
| Application | Ft. Lbs. (N.m) |
|---|---|
| Tie Rod Clamping Nut | 38 (51) |
| Tie Rod Clamping Screw | 10 (14) |
| Tie Rod End Nut | 59 (80) |
TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
WHEEL ALIGNMENT SPECIFICATIONS
For wheel alignment specifications (Scheme 5)
Scheme 5
See also:
• RIDE HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS