Steering Rack Swap - "While You're At It" Items Check

[AWE46M3]

Hello Group,

I’m putting together a list of “while you’re at it” parts for my 712 steering rack install. The power steering system (hoses, reservoir, etc.) was refreshed in 2023, and the control arm bushings are brand new. My ball joints are also in good shape.

Here’s what I have on my purchase list so far — please let me know if there’s anything I’m missing or should replace while I'm at it.


32301094703 - BMW Steering Coupling Assembly - Genuine BMW

32112228786KT - BMW Tie Rod Kit - Lemforder (OE supplier for BMW - correct me if I am wrong here)

32411093597 - Power Steering Bolt Crush Washers x4

32411093596 - BMW Power Steering Banjo Bolt Washer - x2


Parts Diagrams:

[PSUEng]

Looks pretty good to me, I'd add:

Steering coupler bolts (x2) 32306778609
Rack Lock Nuts (x2) 33306760587

Order a few extra banjo bolt washers, they are cheap and if you for some reason have to break the connection again, you have spares.

When I swapped my rack I also did the coupler (Genuine), FACBs (Genuine), LCAs (Lemf.), inner/outer tie rods (Lemf.), sway links (Lemf.), sways bushes (Genuine). My hydraulics were all previously replaced. You may want to replace the M6 bolt (#8) that fastens the high pressure line to the subframe (for good measure). And on a side note, ran the LiquiMoly Toptec 1200 ATF in it for fluid. Feels great now!

[Tbonem3]

Might need some ATF

[AWE46M3]

Looks pretty good to me, I'd add:

Steering coupler bolts (x2) 32306778609
Rack Lock Nuts (x2) 33306760587

Order a few extra banjo bolt washers, they are cheap and if you for some reason have to break the connection again, you have spares.

When I swapped my rack I also did the coupler (Genuine), FACBs (Genuine), LCAs (Lemf.), inner/outer tie rods (Lemf.), sway links (Lemf.), sways bushes (Genuine). My hydraulics were all previously replaced. You may want to replace the M6 bolt (#8) that fastens the high pressure line to the subframe (for good measure). And on a side note, ran the LiquiMoly Toptec 1200 ATF in it for fluid. Feels great now!

Thank you for your detailed response. All great call outs. I appreciate it!

Might need some ATF

A "goes without saying" item but I'm glad you said it - thanks for the reminder 😅

[1000hp]

Washers for reduced assist?

[AWE46M3]

Washers for reduced assist?

For my purposes - no. I am replacing the single use crush washers (5 & 7 in the diagram below).

If you're interest in that particular mod, check out Tbonem3 build journal page 17 post 254

[6speedS54]

I'd check if the boots are ok, recently replaced mine they were ripped.

[Tbonem3]

Washers for reduced assist?

He's got a point though, now would be the time. I think throwing in at least 2 washers is a nice little mod, esp if you're there already.

[L0okitzRaj]

Not sure if this would be included, but the steering coupler/guibo

[AWE46M3]

He's got a point though, now would be the time. I think throwing in at least 2 washers is a nice little mod, esp if you're there already.

Good call - might as well. This fits the bill for “while you’re at it”

Not sure if this would be included, but the steering coupler/guibo

I have it listed in my initial post - is this the part you’re referencing?

32301094703 - BMW Steering Coupling Assembly - Genuine BMW

[L0okitzRaj]

Good call - might as well. This fits the bill for “while you’re at it”



I have it listed in my initial post - is this the part you’re referencing?

32301094703 - BMW Steering Coupling Assembly - Genuine BMW

Wow I read that post twice to make sure you didn’t have it in there and still missed it. lol

[AWE46M3]

Wow I read that post twice to make sure you didn’t have it in there and still missed it. lol

haha thanks for mentioning it nonetheless 🫡

[JakeM346]

Might need some ATF

Or chf if you flush the system anyways

[Tbonem3]

Nah