Removing bumpers

[cee]

What adapter/tool do I need to remove the main bumper securing bolts?

[daimlerman]

What adapter/tool do I need to remove the main bumper securing bolts?

Chrome bumpers or proper bumpers?

[Brianmoooore]

Assuming it's 'proper' bumpers, 10mm male hex. for early ones, or T55 male torx for later ones, IIRC.

[cee]

Sorry, post-facelift bumpers (I refuse to call them proper, as both are lovely in their own right!)

1990, so T55?

[Brianmoooore]

T55 if they're torx; 10mm if they're hex. Only you can see which you have.

[daimlerman]

Sorry, post-facelift bumpers (I refuse to call them proper, as both are lovely in their own right!)

1990, so T55?

So are 'er indoors moles...

Torx 55 male is required,this is a long bolt that passes through a U bracket,it has been known for the bolt to rust into the bracket...so be prepared for a struggle.

The 'other' way is to locate the bolts that fix the bracket to the body,and fight them instead!

[cee]

Okay will look into that. thanks!

[TouringTash]

Plenty of penetrating fluid, its best to turn the car on its roof to give the fluid a chance to work with gravity. The 'other' bolts that hold the brackets to the body at least can be soaked before spending 8 goes to turn the bolt 360 degrees.
Just keep saying 'It'll be worth it in the end' and have plenty of tea and sundries lined up.

[Barx325i]

it's possible to take the skin off, which exposes the top of them bolts allowing you to wd it first, but it's a hassle. If you haven't got a t55, a 10mm hex will do the job, but carefully does it. I've had success with the 10mm in the torx bolt, but firstly giving the bolt a whack from the underneath with a drift of sorts

[daimlerman]

Plenty of penetrating fluid....
Just keep saying 'It'll be worth it in the end' and have plenty of tea and sundries lined up.

Gin and mixed,and a redundant air hostess may help!