To upgrade to polyurethane body mounts in your BMW, begin by gathering necessary tools like a torque wrench, hydraulic jack, and safety gear. Park on a flat surface and use the jack to lift the vehicle, securing it with stands. Once stable, remove old rubber mounts using a socket wrench. Fit-check new polyurethane mounts for compatibility with your BMW model. Adhere to manufacturer-specified torque settings during installation. Conduct a post-installation test drive to assess improved handling and verify bolt tightness. This upgrade enhances durability and handling while offering cost savings, and there's much more to discover about the process.
Benefits of Polyurethane Mounts
Switching to polyurethane mounts in a BMW focuses on better performance and longer life. Unlike rubber mounts that wear down from heat and fluids, polyurethane is tough and lasts longer.
One big plus is that polyurethane mounts make handling and stability better. They connect the vehicle's body and frame more firmly, cutting down on movement during turns. This gives a more accurate driving feel, especially when pushing the car hard.
They also help manage noise and vibrations. Even though they might let through a bit more vibration than rubber, the steady performance they offer makes up for it.
Polyurethane mounts usually last much longer than rubber ones, sometimes up to five times as long. This means less frequent replacements and lower maintenance costs.
They also stand up well to the elements, holding their shape and functionality throughout their use. This makes them a smart pick for BMW fans looking for something durable and reliable.
Required Tools and Equipment
To put in polyurethane body mounts on a BMW, you'll need some tools to make the job easier. These mounts last longer and work better when you use the right tools.
Here's what you'll need:
- Tool Kit: Get a set with sockets, wrenches, and screwdrivers. These help you take out the old mounts and put in the new ones.
- Torque Wrench: Use this to tighten bolts and nuts just right. This way, you won't damage anything by tightening too much.
- Hydraulic Jack and Stands: These lift the car up safely so you can work underneath it.
Each tool has a role in making sure everything fits well and stays safe. Using the right tools helps the job go smoothly and keeps your car in good shape.
Preparing Your BMW
Before you swap your BMW's body mounts with polyurethane ones, get everything ready for the job. First, park the car on a flat, sturdy surface. Make sure the handbrake is on and put blocks behind the back wheels to keep the car from moving.
Check underneath the car for rust or damage. Rust can make parts weaker, so clean any rusty spots and use rust-proofing spray if needed.
Put on safety gear like gloves and goggles to protect yourself.
Gather all the tools and equipment you'll need. You'll need a jack and jack stands that can hold up your car. Have a set of sockets and wrenches handy for dealing with bolts.
Keep your workspace bright and tidy so you don't lose any tools.
Step-by-Step Installation
To start installing polyurethane body mounts on your BMW, first lift the car with a jack and make sure it's stable using jack stands. This keeps the car secure while you work.
Find the old body mounts between the car's chassis and body frame. Remove them by unscrewing the bolts with a socket wrench.
Here's what you need to do next:
- Check Fit: Make sure the new polyurethane mounts fit your BMW model. This ensures they work properly.
- Look Over Parts: Check nearby parts for wear and replace them if needed to avoid future problems.
- Follow Torque Guide: Tighten the new mounts according to the torque settings in your BMW's service manual.
After removing the old mounts, place the new ones in the same spots. Use the bolts to secure them, tightening them evenly to prevent any misalignment.
Check that all connections are tight and secure. Doing this carefully will help improve your BMW's ride and handling.
Post-Installation Tips
After installing polyurethane body mounts, check everything to make sure it's secure. Look at the tightness of all the bolts. If they aren't tight enough, the mounts might not work well or could get damaged. Take the car for a drive on different types of roads. This helps to see if the mounts are doing their job by making the car more stable and easier to handle. Pay attention to any strange noises like squeaks or clunks, which might mean something isn't installed right.
Think about the chance of hearing more road noise since polyurethane is harder than rubber. Some people might want to add extra soundproofing to reduce this noise. It's a good idea to check the mounts regularly to keep them in good shape.
Here's a quick guide:
| What to Check | What to Do | Why It Helps |
|---|---|---|
| Bolt Tightness | Make sure all bolts are tight | Stops parts from loosening |
| Test Drive | Drive on different roads, listen for noise | Ensures mounts are secure |
| Road Noise | Add soundproofing if needed | Makes car quieter |
Follow these steps to help your BMW get the best performance from the new mounts.
People Also Ask
How Long Does the Entire Upgrade Process Typically Take?
The whole upgrade process usually takes about 4 to 8 hours if a skilled person does it. But if someone is just starting or not very experienced, it might take them longer. Tools and practice can make the process faster and easier.
Are Polyurethane Body Mounts Compatible With All BMW Models?
Polyurethane body mounts can fit many BMW cars, but not all of them. It depends on the car model and year. To be sure they fit your BMW, check with the maker or ask a car expert for help.
Can I Perform the Upgrade Without Professional Assistance?
You can do the upgrade yourself if you have some mechanical skills and the right tools. It's important to read your car's manual and make sure the new parts fit your BMW model to avoid any problems.
What Are the Signs That My Current Mounts Need Replacing?
If your car shakes more while driving, makes strange noises, or the doors don't line up right, it might be time to change the body mounts. Also, if the mounts look worn out, it's best to fix them soon to keep your car comfy and smooth.
How Do Polyurethane Mounts Affect the Car's Resale Value?
Polyurethane mounts can make a car last longer and run better, which might make it worth more when you sell it. But some buyers like the original parts better. It's important to think about what kind of buyer might want your car.