BMW 535is Shakes

[NickM535]

Hi All,

I have a 90 model 535is. Problem is when driving at any speed between 80-100 kph the front wheels and steering wheel shake really badly. It does not happen all the time but has been getting worse recently. If I slow down to about 40kph it stops then i can drive for a little while before it happens again.

Mechanic has had it for 2 days and cannot find a problem- i gave them 2 original stock wheels and the problem remained present.

Has anyone got any ideas??

Cheers

Nick

[Alan]

E34s exhibit the shake you are describing due to worn suspension components from approximately 55-60mph. This would be pretty close to your 80-100kph.

The first cause is usually worn out thrust arm (upper control arm). The stock items are really only good for about 60K miles. You should replace them with bushings from a 750i (firmer and last longer). The arm itself is probably due for replacement as the ball joint will be worn.

Other possible culprits include worn lower control arms, tie rods, strut assemblies. NO PLAY (by hand) in any of the assemblies is acceptable. Compress ball joints with channel lock pliers to check.

Also, if your wheels aren't perfectly balanced, the problem can arise but usually another part is worn as well. If everything is perfect, a slightly off wheel won't be able to shake and thus you won't feel it. Try to get your wheels balanced on a road force balancer or (if they have them there) a Hunter GSP9700 (the king of wheel balancers).