E30 Zone

hi guys does anyone have any pics on how to change the STEER.COL.-LOWER JOINT ASSY ? as it looks like the rubber donut has play in it just going to try take it out now. also will any e30 joint fit it lists a diff part no. for the m3 & 320is than other e30's ?????

The steering link is different between manual and power steering, but other than that, one from any 'ordinary' E30 should fit.
The one you have is repairable, with a cheap kit from zimmerbimmer1.
Easiest way to get it out is to remove the pinch bolts holding the clamps at either end, slacken the LH bolt that holds the steering rack, remove the RH bolt, and pull the rack forward at the steering pinion end.

Lots of lube!!

2x13mm spanners (or 1xratchet 1xspanner)

Easy way I did was to loosen the undo the 2 bolts/nuts and then pull the joint off the top stud. This may require a pry bar and someone to pull back against the steering wheel!
Once the top is off, pull the bottom off.
Replacement is the reversal.

Some people will say to undo the rack and move it forward. You can do it this way. Mine was shagged and VERY stubborn. but a 4ft pry bar helped and away it came. BEWARE!!! Cover the battery unless you want some impromptu arc welding!

If you plan ahead, 10-15mins to change the joint. (done it 2x now so it can be done in this time!)

That's specific to the M3, I think you'll find.

oze30 wrote:but a 4ft pry bar helped and away it came. BEWARE!!! Cover the battery unless you want some impromptu arc welding!

You'd need longer than a 4ft bar to arc the battery in an M3 when messing with the steering column....

cheers guys just about to start now hope i still have skin on my nuckels later ha ha. and oze30 no problems with the battery as its in the boot . cheers guys let you know later how i get on