Strictly European Autosport - Features - DIY - How to replace rear shock mounts on a E36 BMW



How to replace rear shock mounts on an E36 BMW
By: Harold Lambert

Ok, first you will need these tools.


Then you will need the replacement parts. I chose these.


The wrenches are a 16 and a 13mm and a ratchet with a 13mm socket. You will first gain access to the shock tops via inside the car in the trunk area. This is what you should see.


Start by placing the 16mm open end wrench over the nut on the shaft of the shock.


Then place the special tool on the very top of the shock shaft and then place the 13mm wrench over the special tool.


The special tool is a shock removal tool that comes in many sizes and can be had for only 10 bucks. Once you remove the nut from the shock tower then remove the two nuts from the mount studs with the 13mm socket and rathchet. THen after the nuts are removed you can now jack up the vehicle from a point on the car that does not include the wheel so as to let the wheel hang down when the car is raised. The shock should drop out with the mount on top.


Heres the blown mounts.....



Then place your new mounts on top of the shock and guide them through the holes and raise the shock with your hand. Then go back inside the car and fasten the two nuts that secure the mount to the car. After that is done you can then place the nut on the shock shaft and tighten that up and then lower the car. Here is the completed install....


Remember not all cars will share the same size nuts so your tool sizes will vary upon car. This is just a basic how-to and is assumed that the installer will have and use some common sense upon different variations of vehicles. Also remember safety first so chock your tires before jacking and use jack stands when available. You wont get to enjoy your accomplishments if your in the ER. Happy motoring and stay tuned for the next DIY.....