FRONT ALUMINUM PLATE

[NEVI325]

Hello all,

i need to check out an oil leak under my car and i need to remove the aluminum skid plate. i see it attaches to the control arms and I'm just curious if the suspension should be unloaded when this is removed. i have the car on ramps but i don't want to remove the plate if the suspension needs to be unloaded. im use to doing all this on a lift but i moved and no longer have space for one. any help is greatly appreciated.

Regards,

[JakeM346]

Nope but you need to replace all the screws as they will rip of if tourqued again. New screw set from bmw is about 30 +euros. So kinda costly

[jayjaya29]

Nope but you need to replace all the screws as they will rip of if tourqued again. New screw set from bmw is about 30 +euros. So kinda costly

I've reused these bolts numerous times now, they're fine. Sure, in a perfect world, you would replace them after each use but its not really tenable in the long run.

[JakeM346]

I've reused these bolts numerous times now, they're fine. Sure, in a perfect world, you would replace them after each use but its not really tenable in the long run.

I’m just saying what bmw is saying.

[jayjaya29]

I’m just saying what bmw is saying.

Yes I know BMW says they are one time use.

[Andratch]

I’m just saying what bmw is saying.

on the flip side, BMW also says transmission fluid is "lifetime" 😂

[PSUEng]

This is an age old debate on this forum. BMW does says replace them, however many have not and the world has not ended; I don't recall reading of any crashes as a result, etc. I have re-used them. Now, one could buy a set from FCP and warranty them out each time to be technically correct to the TIS, but I think on this forum, it's widely accepted that it isn't necessary. How often to replace? Maybe that's unknown. Dig around for multiple threads on the subject.

Notwithstanding a definitive explanation as to why the joint requires that these bolts only be used one time, I reason that given these bolts are grade 10.9 bolts with a captive washer and no serrations, torqued to a measly 44ft-lb + 90deg, TTY is not even in question. Now, if these were like the flange bolts connecting CV axle to diff, with serrations and the reinforcement plates, I would agree, at minimum replace the plates and maybe the bolts every two or three uses (due to the cost of the bolts) as the serrations may wear away thereby compromising the joint. But, that isn't the case here. Of course, I'm always open to information, but there are more pressing problems to solve on this car in my case.

Anyway, nowhere do I read BMW having said that if you reuse these reinforcement plate bolts, "[the screws] will rip of if tourqued again".

[bigjae46]

This is an age old debate on this forum. BMW does says replace them, however many have not and the world has not ended; I don't recall reading of any crashes as a result, etc. I have re-used them. Now, one could buy a set from FCP and warranty them out each time to be technically correct to the TIS, but I think on this forum, it's widely accepted that it isn't necessary. How often to replace? Maybe that's unknown. Dig around for multiple threads on the subject.

Notwithstanding a definitive explanation as to why the joint requires that these bolts only be used one time, I reason that given these bolts are grade 10.9 bolts with a captive washer and no serrations, torqued to a measly 44ft-lb + 90deg, TTY is not even in question. Now, if these were like the flange bolts connecting CV axle to diff, with serrations and the reinforcement plates, I would agree, at minimum replace the plates and maybe the bolts every two or three uses (due to the cost of the bolts) as the serrations may wear away thereby compromising the joint. But, that isn't the case here. Of course, I'm always open to information, but there are more pressing problems to solve on this car in my case.

Anyway, nowhere do I read BMW having said that if you reuse these reinforcement plate bolts, "[the screws] will rip of if tourqued again".

BMW replaces almost all fasteners on every work procedure. I think it’s for a show of work quality - when a customer sees the repair it looks like new. I also think it’s to minimize any fastener related issues. Like - no smashed reused door panel clips leading to a rattle or squeak.

BMW warranty work - BMW requires replacing most fasteners. If a tech doesn’t and BMW audits, the dealer can get charged back the cost of the repair for not doing it right.

[Obioban]

Lifetime warranty on parts (FCP, ECS), so why not replace them every time?

[01SG]

Just seems like a massive waste to replace them. I have had that plate off ten thousand times in ten years and I still use the same bolts. Never had a problem.

[Obioban]

Just seems like a massive waste to replace them. I have had that plate off ten thousand times in ten years and I still use the same bolts. Never had a problem.

If your torqued the plate to spec, which is necessary for full torsional rigidity, you’d have an issue using them repeatedly.

[Slideways]

The final angle degree of the tightening procedure has a range ±30. At the lower end of the range, the bolts do not seem to deform as much if at all.

[oceansize]

Years ago, when they were cheaper, I bought a bunch and rotate one or two new ones in each time I R&R.

[01SG]

If your torqued the plate to spec, which is necessary for full torsional rigidity, you’d have an issue using them repeatedly.

I often don't. Most of the time I just do it by feel. Occasionally I break out the wrench, but then I never do it fully to spec because I have reused them, always a fair mount less than the angle required. I never noticed any difference driving either way, and I would have serious doubts about anyone who said they could.

[bigjae46]

I blast them on with an impact to about 70-80ft/lbs. Gasp...I know...but its a lot faster

Never had a problem with a bolt failing but I try and replace them periodically.