X7 Exclusive. Where is the front centre sphere?

[Peter.N.]

Hi folks

More problems. I have new suspension spheres, have fitted the two outer front ones but can't find the centre one. I have read information that says its behind the wing liner, some say the left side, others the right. I thought I had seen it projecting through the liner one side but can't find it now. Its a 2.0. hdi. Am I loosing my marbles?

Peter.

[Stickyfinger]

Low, front right

[Peter.N.]

Thanks Alistair. Mine doesn't look like that if the two labelled 'A' are the outer spheres. Its a tourer, does that make any difference?

Peter

[Peter.N.]

Ah I think they are the rear centres. I will check tomorrow.

Thanks again.

Peter

[Stickyfinger]

Yes, the twin block is rear....look at the car image, you can see the placement on that....

[Kees]

If it's not a 3.0L then you find him behind the front left wheel and the 3.0l you find him behind the right front wheel behind the mud protector in the front fender.

[Kees]

I see now, that it is a 2.0, then he's at the left side. To replace him, remove the left drives haft and the m6 bolt under the subframe withs hold the ac tube and hammer with a long chisel the sphere loose.

[Peter.N.]

Thanks everybody. I found it today, its slightly left of the centre of the engine, between that and the subframe, how you get to it I don't know, I will take the wheel off and have a closer look. Looks like a terrible job, probably why the car was so cheap!

Peter

[Kees]

Maybe you should read my post a few times, because I described exactly how you can replace the center sphere on a 2.0!!

[Peter.N.]

Dank je wel mijn vriend

I did read it several times but still couldn't see how to gain access. I will take the wheel off and see if it makes more sense.

Tot siens

[Kees]

You get the access, because when you remove the drive shaft there is room for you're hand, but the airco tube must out of the way, therefore you have to remove the 6mm bolt under the subframe for more movement of this tube.
Then use the long chisel to hammer it loose and remove the sphere with your hand.
Success.

[Peter.N.]

Thank you. I will have a go today. the main problem is I'm 87 next week and I don't bend as well as I did.

Peter

[Kees]

Ohh, oke, i understand. Last month I had to replace my alternator, working on the street under the car, my back hurts for 3 days afterwards and I'm 73.....

[Peter.N.]

Well done, you are getting there. Strangely I had to change my alternator last week, the one way clutch had seized and the belt was jumping up and down. I do have a yard to work in though.

Peter