BMW 7 Series: Cover For Side Member At Rear (Rear Side Panel Removed)
Read contents of BODY, GENERAL.
Use only approved SPOT-WELDING APPARATUS for repairs.
The following new bodywork parts are required:
- Cover, side member, rear (component is included on new side panel part)
Removal
Open weld joints in area (1).

Fig. 357: Identifying Weld Joints Area
View from below:
Open weld joint (1).

Fig. 358: Identifying Weld Joint
View from inside:
Open weld joint (1).
Remove side member cover.

Fig. 359: Identifying Weld Joint
Preparation of new part
Detach side wall.
Open welded connections in area (1) and remove side member cover (2).

Fig. 360: Identifying Welded Connections Area And Side Member Cover
Installation
Install new part and weld.
NOTE: Apply repair welding spots in area of sill bottom edge to existing
welding spots
on new component/car. This is necessary because the adhesive between the
spot flanges acts as an insulator.
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In the case of a partial replacement piece, a body component is cut at a
point described in the repair instructions.
A reinforcement plate is bonded in to ensure sufficient strength.
Reinforcement
Read contents of BODY, GENERAL.
STRIP DOWN VEHICLE
Observe new procedure for bonding and riveting (REPAIR STAGE 2).
Following new body parts are required:
Side frame, rear
Reinforcement plate, C-
Read contents of BODY, GENERAL.
Spot-weld bonding is used on this vehicle. Observe specific procedure See
SPOT-WELD BONDING
STEEL PARTS.
Remove or cover those vehicle components in the repair area
SEE MORE:
NOTE: If the integral link is detached from the swinging arm, it is
necessary after
installation to carry out a chassis/wheel alignment check.
Necessary preliminary work
Remove REAR WHEEL.
Release nut (1) and remove screw.
Tightening torque 33 32 4AZ.
Release screw (2) and remove integral link
WARNING: Risk of scalding! Only perform this repair work after engine
has cooled down.
IMPORTANT: When carrying out repair work on the coolant circuit,
protect the alternator from dirt contamination.
Cover alternator with suitable materials.
Failure to comply with this procedure may result in an