Steering Coupling question

[Althoros]

Hi
91 325i cab unmodified
I've just pulled my engine to solve few leaks and fettle the engine bay pipework etc and in the process noticed that the steering coupling had been assembled incorrectly at some stage. The attachments through the rubber ring were direct rather than at 90deg if that makes sense!
On checking real oem it seems that the protection cup sits between the bottom link and rubber joint ie bolt, bottom bracket, cup, uj, washer, nut. However, in all the images I can find the cup seems to be fitted ouside of the bottom joint ie bolt, cup, bottom joint, uj, washer, nut.
Could anyone advise on the correct fitment? Manythanks
http://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/showpar ... Id=32_0419

[Brianmoooore]

Cup in the place you found it is correct. The ETK diagrams are not assembly diagrams and should not be used as such, or as any indication as to what a particular part looks like. Whereas in most cases the diagrams are correct, there are many cases throughout the ETK where they are not.
The two attachments to the disc should be at right angles to each other.
The assembly left the factory riveted together. If yours has nuts and bolts, as shown in the ETK, then the assembly has been taken apart at some time, and, in your case, incorrectly reassembled. Note that the bolts are special shouldered ones, which must be used.

[Althoros]

Hello Brian
Thank you for your invaluable information as usual.! I was curious as many images I found had flat head connectors/bolts but that’s also been explained! I have the replacement bolts, nuts, washers, uj and cup so hopefully set!!
Many thanks again
Al