86 21 ... Removing Gas Spring
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 BMW Alpina and 2007 BMW Alpina. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Only remove the gas spring while the lid is open. The gas spring will then not be subjected to load and the spring piston will not jump out of the spring housing. Prop the lid open with one hand to prevent it dropping closed. Remove the gas spring with your other hand.
NOTE:
Side lids are each fitted with a gas spring. Rear lid is fitted with two gas springs. The following text describes how to remove the gas spring at one mounting point as an example. Proceed in the same way for all other mounting points.
Rear lid:
Replace gas springs in pairs only.
Rear lid:
Replace gas springs in pairs only.
Lever out retaining clip (1) in recess (2) and push on gas spring head (3) in direction of arrow. Detach spring head (3) from ball pivot.
Installation:
Push retaining clip (1) back into its original position. Press spring head (3) onto ball pivot until spring head (3) snaps audibly into place.