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18 20 020 Removing And Installing Intermediate Pipe With Catalytic Converter

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2006 BMW M3, 2005 BMW M3, 2004 BMW M3, 2003 BMW M3, and 2002 BMW M3. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE:

For Special Tool identification, see Figure .

Special Tools Required: 

WARNING: Scalding hazard! Only perform these tasks after exhaust system has cooled down.

Remove underbody protection.

US version:

Front pipes are fitted in place of the ECE catalytic converter.

ECE version:

Release screws.

Unclip both plug connections (1) and disconnect.

NOTE: Plastic holder with both cables of monitor sensors is removed with catalytic converter.
Fig 1: Unclipping Both Plug Connections
G03118531Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release nut.

Remove holder (1).

Unclip plug connection (2) and disconnect.

Fig 2: Removing Holder And Plug Connection
G03118532Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screw connection of flanges at exhaust manifold.

Installation: 

Check seals and replace if necessary.

Replace self-locking nuts and screws.

Coat thread with copper paste.

Preliminary tightening:

Tighten screws alternately to locate relevant flange pair.

Final tightening:

Tighten screws to specified.

Tightening torque, (24 N.m.).

Fig 3: Locating Screw Connection Of Flanges At Exhaust Manifold
G03118533Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release nuts.

Remove air deflector (1).

Fig 4: Identifying Air Deflector
G03118534Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Support exhaust system with jack and special tool 31 2 220 and secure against falling out.

Fig 5: View Of With Jack And Special Tool
G03118535Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws (1).

Remove reinforcement plate (2).

Release screws (3).

Reinforcement plate (4) remains connected by means of 2 rubber mounts to exhaust system.

Fig 6: Locating Reinforcement Plate Retaining Screws
G03118536Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Release screws and remove body reinforcement strut (1).

Fig 7: Identifying Body Reinforcement Strut
G03118537Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
CAUTION: A 2nd person is essential to help ensure safe removal of the exhaust system.

Release screw connection of flanges between rear muffler and intermediate pipes.

Installation: 

Check seal, replace if necessary.

Remove intermediate pipe with catalytic converter. Refer to 18 20 020 REMOVING AND INSTALLING INTERMEDIATE PIPE WITH CATALYTIC CONVERTER  .

Fig 8: Locating Screw Connection Of Flanges
G03118538Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.