Steering reach adjustment stuck (E34)

[ngruzevs@optusnet.com.au]

I have just purchased a 1989 BMW 535i Executive, it has done 195,000Kms and is in very good condition. I have just found this Bimmer forum and hope someone might be able to help with the following questions.

1. The steering column reach adjustment seems to be stuck in the position closest to the dashboard. When I undo the latch, the steering column doesn't move at all.

2. The Average fuel consumption (1&2) always reads 00. I have tried pushing the set/reset button, then give it a bit of time, but the reading never changes. All the other trip computer functions work well.

http://members.optusnet.com.au/~ngruzevs/BMW/IMG_0162%20(Small).JPG

http://members.optusnet.com.au/~ngruzevs/BMW/IMG_0168%20(Small).JPG

[shrike071]

The column in my car did the same thing when I first bought it. It's just stuck. Get a prybar and wedge it right on the edge of the nut at the base of the steering shaft (down by the floor) and give it a good working. Eventually it'll start to slide. Then, once it is broken free - lube it up with some lithium grease. I sprayed some penetrating oil down there on the nut and the splines before I started prying and that probably helped a lot.

[califblue]

how much should it move?
my 92' 535i has the telescoping wheel and it only moves 1/2

[shrike071]

Mine moves 2 or 3 inches.

[kev535i]

welcome to another aussie, lots of info for our cars here- http://www.bmwe34.net/ and always search. welcome aboard

[ngruzevs@optusnet.com.au]

Thanks Strike071, that did the trick. I sprayed some penetrating oil down the bottom of the shaft and then used a crowbar to wedge it free. I am now able to move the steering column about 2inchs either way :)

It's great to have such good resources online.

[genphreak]

welcome to the fold... you will really enjoy the old girl. Get a fright you will though when you get the consumption readout working...

[filip00]

you must open the cover under the steering wheel, and you'll find a long rod which connects the wheel with the rack and the steering. you'll find one large (32 or so) nut on it. it's possible it's screwn in too tight. unscrew it and then screw it using your hand until it's okay. then the telescopic adjustment should work just fine.