[Exxxtacy]

are there any "special" bmw tools im going to need to install coilovers? my coils should be here with the next couple weeks and i would like to have everything ready so i can throw them on right away. from the looks of it, it doesnt look like it would need anything special, but i am not 100% certain.

[Sidewinderpb]

I think the only special tools you would need are he spanner wrenches that come with the coils.

[gtaccord]

No special tools needed.

[jwzimm]

There are a few that make the job much easier. I watched the ECS tuning video several time and reviewed the tools he used. The biggies are the socket to tighten the strut nut for the fronts. You have to hold the strut from the top and tighten the nut around it. They have a cutout socket that allows this. I used a spark plug socket (as it has wrenching flats on it) and stuck a long allen socket through the drive hole to hold the strut. Make sure to have your torque wrench on the loosen setting if you are using it to hold the strut while tightening with the spark plug socket.

The other tool that is very valuable is the knuckle spreader. Some folks will tell you to just jam a crowbar into the gap and spread it. I REALLY don't like that as you risk over-spreading it and damaging the knuckle.

Also, do not skip the re-indexing of the bushings on your control arms. This is very important to the longevity of your bushings and prevents 99% of the "settling" that other folks have seen.

Watch this video:

[gtaccord]

Using a 3/8" ratchet to 1/4" socket adapter works really well for spreading the knuckle. You just insert it and then do a 1/8 turn. It is pretty much exactly like the BMW "special" tool that the shop manual mentions.

[jwzimm]

Originally Posted by gtaccord

Using a 3/8" ratchet to 1/4" socket adapter works really well for spreading the knuckle. You just insert it and then do a 1/8 turn. It is pretty much exactly like the BMW "special" tool that the shop manual mentions.

Except it does not stay put once spread. That would have made the job more tricky as you are wrestling with the strut and trying to spread the knuckle at the same time. For the $2x cost of the right tool, it is worth it IMHO.

[gtaccord]

Originally Posted by jwzimm

Except it does not stay put once spread. That would have made the job more tricky as you are wrestling with the strut and trying to spread the knuckle at the same time. For the $2x cost of the right tool, it is worth it IMHO.

It stayed when I used it to do mine....

[Exxxtacy]

much appreciated guys