Downpipe install question (steering rack)

[BroDoze]

Ordered me up some of Terry's $329 DPs.

I've watched some install videos and read some threads. Biggest thing that bothers me is the steering rack. I DO NOT want to take everything back apart to adjust the rack, and I can't be rolling with a crooked steering wheel.

Anybody got any tips to keep the rack perfectly realigned? Or, has anybody had success NOT removing the rack? I heard of one person that has done it and he said it was pretty tight.

What say ye?

[Hellkite]

If you're just worried about the center point of the steering wheel, and the toe is good. Take the steering wheel off and move it over.

[MilehighM3]

The steering wheel has a master key to the column that prevents you from moving it left or right. The rack doesn't need to be removed completely, just unbolted from the subframe and moved forward. Leave the tie rods, lines and steering column joint alone. Alignment will not be effected this way at all.

[milehigh135i]

Originally Posted by Bmw135er

The steering wheel has a master key to the column that prevents you from moving it left or right. The rack doesn't need to be removed completely, just unbolted from the subframe and moved forward. Leave the tie rods, lines and steering column joint alone. Alignment will not be effected this way at all.

^this
Its been a while since I did my own install but I think there are two main bolts that you remove. It's not difficult at all. When you put it back just make sure you don't pinch or break any lines. Reinstall the two bolts and you're good to go.

[kkrikkett]

Originally Posted by Bmw135er

The steering wheel has a master key to the column that prevents you from moving it left or right. The rack doesn't need to be removed completely, just unbolted from the subframe and moved forward. Leave the tie rods, lines and steering column joint alone. Alignment will not be effected this way at all.

+1 on this thats all did mine is fine.

[BroDoze]

Ok, thanks all. I don't know what the guy did to make his wheel not centered. Thought it was a poster on this board, but I just searched and couldn't find the thread. argh.

So there's no left/right "play" at all of the rack between the two loosened bolts?

[Venom]

Originally Posted by Brahmzy

Ok, thanks all. I don't know what the guy did to make his wheel not centered. Thought it was a poster on this board, but I just searched and couldn't find the thread. argh.

So there's no left/right "play" at all of the rack between the two loosened bolts?

Not if you just wiggle it forward. It has not affected the centricity of my steering. I just attempted the diy recently and it took me 2 days.

[WPG D33Z]

Had my DP's installed last week and no problems with the steering rack or alignment, everything was perfect once put back together.

[Lambobimmer]

All you need to do is to remove 2 bolts and the steering rack will move towards the front of the car enough to remove and reinstall the DP's. It really is a pretty easy job. It can be done in less than 2 hours going slow.

[MilehighM3]

Originally Posted by Brahmzy

Ok, thanks all. I don't know what the guy did to make his wheel not centered. Thought it was a poster on this board, but I just searched and couldn't find the thread. argh.

So there's no left/right "play" at all of the rack between the two loosened bolts?

There's a very slight amount, just enough to comfortably fit the bolts. You are not loosening the tie rods, so you will not effect the steering geometry. Or you can always take it in for the wastegate rattle previously discussed via "pm" ;-)

[milehigh135i]

Are you in Denver? If you are I'd be willing to help you out with the install or at least bring some beer over

[kollegga]

Steering wheel was about 5-10 degress to the right after install :-(

ditched something with my left rim a day ago and everything is fine now... lol

should i do a Wheel Alignment!?

[Gimlet]

^^I might at least get it checked out...

[Snertz]

Its possible to install without loosening the steering rack, a small heat shield next to the plastic boot on the passenger side of the rack needs to be removed to do it. It's three torx screws holding it in. you'll need a small ratcheting wrench for this, it's fairly low torque though. You can get to it by reaching in from the DP end side of things.

Once the shield is removed you can squeeze your hand through the hole made to get to the front DP vband bolt. Or just use a long extension and a swivel to get it done.

I've done it this way 4-5 times, let me know if you hit a snag.

[BroDoze]

Thanks for the input all. DPs on my porch this afternoon, install this weekend.

[crew_chief152]

I have installed 5 sets of downpipes on 135's and 335's. Ive never messed with steering rack. Like Brahmzy said, just take the small heat shield off and all is good. The install is very easy, you will be surprised.

[MilehighM3]

But moving the rack makes things substantially easier. Doing it this way, you can easily get them done in under an hour. At least some people can...;-)

[NihonX]

I've been installing and uninstalling my cars (135i/1M) downpipes for over three years (20+ times). I know my way around that area and have experienced that pros and cons of getting downpipes.

As far as installing without messing with the steering rack; it can be installed without a lift (I use ramps) and without removing the bolts from or adjusting the steering rack in any way. You just need to move the heat shield out of the way via a small torx bolt. You don't even have to completely remove it.

I can now uninstall and install in under 2 hours.

[crew_chief152]

+1

[brusk]

If you doing it I recommend 1/4" swivel socket, extensions and 1/4 air ratchet if you got one. Makes life alot less painful.

[mcmn]

Originally Posted by lamboworld

All you need to do is to remove 2 bolts and the steering rack will move towards the front of the car enough to remove and reinstall the DP's. It really is a pretty easy job. It can be done in less than 2 hours going slow.

I'm sorry - but dont set this expectation. DPs are the hardest thing i have ever done, perhaps you are talking from experience with a hoist or different, but I had bruises on my hands for 2 weeks

[Lambobimmer]

Originally Posted by mcmn

I'm sorry - but dont set this expectation. DPs are the hardest thing i have ever done, perhaps you are talking from experience with a hoist or different, but I had bruises on my hands for 2 weeks

You should try doing a set of headers on an E46 M3. I do have a lift and that certainly does make things a lot easier.