Well I fitted new shocks, new top mounts, all new bolts and gaskets to my 2 series today. Took me 4 hours single handed with a break in between.
The rear wheels were stuck on,didn't help.
Essential tip, you have to remove the plastic tray on the lower subframe arms. 10mm socket on an extension x4 nuts will get that off to access the lower damper bolt.
The lower damper e torx ideally needs a short extension to stop you fouling your impact if you use one. I hate torx, they seem to slip off more than normal bolts. No idea why they used one here.
Top mount bolts all came off easily. A 10mm socket will get these out if you dont have an e12.
Putting back together, likely to scratch the new damper body on a bolt sticking out, have some spray paint ready to cover any scratches and prevent corrosion of the shock body should you scratch it...
The old shocks while not 'blown' had basically no rebound on them at 45k miles.
I fitted new:
Top mounts, bolts, gasket (reused white plastic cap)
E18 bolt and nut
New bumpstops
New shocks
Tools needed:
10mm socket
E18 torx
18mm spanner
Extension
17mm counterhold tool
6mm hex head
