Assistance Required

[CANDOO]

Having just replaced my 8 Series (destroyed by a drunk driver-head on)< I have a whole set of "new" issues to work with. I purchased a 635CSi at a good price, and am unable to locate a shop manual.
My primary concern at the moment is the constant readjusting of the rear suspension. Most disconcerting when it lifts in the middle of an on/off ramp. Where might I Find information on the switching system and how to adjust it? I already learned about the rocker arm replacement to reduce valve noise. And the bad old German insulation from metallic braces/ electrical fire problems. ( Main power feed short under the hood)Also; the replacement antenna mast from Bavarian is larger than the one in the car?
TIA Richard

[BoldUlysses]

What year is your E24? I'm assuming an '88/'89 with the SLS system?

The closest thing to a shop manual for the E24 is the E28 Bentley manual (the E28 shares its chassis, if not bodywork and interior, with the post '81 E24).

To reduce valve noise, the rocker arms aren't "replaced" (unless a crack is found in one), their clearances are adjusted. Maybe that's what you meant?

More how-tos can be found here:

http://www.normgrills.net/bcg/
http://bigcoupe.com/phpBB2/viewforum.php?f=11
http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=307


Edit: This looks like it may be of use to you.

http://www.normgrills.net/bcg/Suspension_Rear.html#anchor35786

[RSheiman]

Up and down spontaneous motion is due to bad brake boosters, they look like little black bombs and are in the wheel wells on each side next to the strut. If I recall, about 120 dollars each at Auohaus Arizona. Should replace both, fairly easy. Alternate is to get rid of the system. I replaced it with Bilstein HD's and M-tech springs cause I wanted to keep the height similar. Can use H&R springs or Bav auto if you want it lowered. Saved all the SLS stuff cause next owner may want the option to restore.

[tschultz]

If it is your leveling suspension that is acting up, it could mean bad accumulators. Replacing one fixed my dad's M6 that would keep adjusting when not moving.

[Bert Poliakoff]

Up and down spontaneous motion is due to bad brake boosters, they look like little black bombs and are in the wheel wells on each side next to the strut. If I recall, about 120 dollars each at Auohaus Arizona. Should replace both, fairly easy. Alternate is to get rid of the system. I replaced it with Bilstein HD's and M-tech springs cause I wanted to keep the height similar. Can use H&R springs or Bav auto if you want it lowered. Saved all the SLS stuff cause next owner may want the option to restore.


Make it accumulators instead of brake boosters and Rob is probably correct as is Tom.

[CANDOO]

Thanks to all. The system will be removed.I have the stock rear struts (used, of course).

[CW6er]

I purchased a 635CSi at a good price, and am unable to locate a shop manual.

Welcome Wagon O' Information:
Here is a page of links to Online (or PDF Downloads) of the Factory Workshop Manuals, Wiring Diagrams (ETM's), Parts Manuals, Online Suppliers, etc.:
http://bigcoupe.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=10410


My primary concern at the moment is the constant readjusting of the rear suspension. Most disconcerting when it lifts in the middle of an on/off ramp. Where might I Find information on the switching system and how to adjust it?SLS - Self Leveling Suspension:
Photo's: http://bigcoupe.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=529&
Tighten Cap: http://bigcoupe.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=10817&

There is an elimination kit from BavAuto. There are no struts in the rear, the springs are mounted on the shocks, so new shocks would be required.

SLS conversion / elimination:
http://bigcoupe.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=9928&



I already learned about the rocker arm replacement to reduce valve noise.As already mentioned, do you mean adjusting the valve clearance?


And the bad old German insulation from metallic braces/ electrical fire problems. ( Main power feed short under the hood)Never heard of this problem in the E24


Also; the replacement antenna mast from Bavarian is larger than the one in the car?
TIA RichardNot heard of this either, but there are two different masts depending on which antenna you have (one is smooth and one is toothed).

[maxg765]

If it is your leveling suspension that is acting up, it could mean bad accumulators. Replacing one fixed my dad's M6 that would keep adjusting when not moving.

My 1988 M6 was doing the same before the accumulators were replaced as well (the the PO).

Max

[mauryc]

As as owner of an 88', I recommend the e32 shop manual as well for engine related issues if in face you have an 88-89. the e28 gets you close but as we share the m30/b35 with the e32/34's, the seven manual helps out tremendously - again for engine specifics.

[oldymcoldington]

PM me, i can help you on the tech manual

[CANDOO]

The car is,in fact a 1989. The valves have been adjusted twice in less than 1000 miles and as I understand it,replace the rockers seems to be the standard for non adjusting valves. This vehicle has 268000 miles on it and been generally well treated. While it was a "cheap" car,and realizing that it would probably need some work, I purchashed it anyway. My 840Ci was killed in a drunk driving accident(not me) in CA, and this is my replacement. 1989 E24 Automatic with a reasonable radio. I am trying to learn the car so as to maintain it in decent condition. A daunting task for a vehicle with no repair manual. I should mention I am an aircraft mechanic and an old BMC and Porsche owner.

[CW6er]

The car is,in fact a 1989. The valves have been adjusted twice in less than 1000 miles and as I understand it,replace the rockers seems to be the standard for non adjusting valves.

Still a bit confused about this. what about the valves is "not adjusting"?


I am trying to learn the car so as to maintain it in decent condition. A daunting task for a vehicle with no repair manual. Have you looked at my Welcome Wagon page yet? All of the Manuals are there. The Factory Manual is online (It is listed in red) and the Wiring diagrams (ETM's)for your year can be downloaded. Plus there are links the complete parts Manuals online. I can find more info for my '87 BMW then I can for my '81 Dodge Pickup!

[oldymcoldington]

you got mail!