1997 328i Rear shocks.How hard?

[BulletTooth]

How hard is it to replace the rear shocks on a 1997 328i? My right one I think is blown cause the car is really low on that side (noticably lower than left). So I'm thinking to replace both rear ones, is it doable with my regular tools, or are any special tools/machine are required to do that?
Also would a blown shock cause a thumping sound? When I drive slow through a parking lot I can hear like thumping coming from that side, or is it the bearing?
Thanx.

[Stephen 325TDS]

'could be the shock, or it could be the top shock mount which is known to go on a regular basis. Either way, the replacement is straightforward, with few tools required.

Stephen

[BulletTooth]

How could I tell which one it is? Is it obvious from just looking at it?

[Stephen 325TDS]

I've just re-read your post, and I'm thinking that if the car is lower on one side, then it isn't a shock or shock mount. These wouldn't affect the ride height of the car.
It could be a spring...still fairly easy to replace. Get the car up a bit and get a good look under there, and get a good look at the trailing arm as well, where it joins the chassis.

Stephen

[323imankiks]

first look for any visible leaks around shocks. I am sure you know that already but as for the shock mounts grab the shock and see if it moves around pay attention to the top of the shock look for any visible damage to the bushings. i replaced my shocks on a 2000 323i it was not to difficult. Also look in your trunk peel back the trunk liners on the sides to look at the top of the shock mounts for any damage or wear. Maybe someone else knows better

[BulletTooth]

Thank you guys for your replies. There are no leaks from the shocks, but I will try to raise it up tomorrow for a better inspection. I just thought it woulg be hard to replace the shocks because I would have to press the spring back together, but it seems everyone says it's an easy job so I'll try it out this weekend. Thanks again

[Stephen 325TDS]

BulletTooth,

Get yourself a manual. If you only have a little experience working with cars, it's essential. It will provide extremely useful information, give you more confidence, and, possibly, stop you from getting hurt!
Good Luck.

Stephen

[BulletTooth]

What manual would you recommend, that's more user friendly Bentlye, or are there any other good ones out there? Would they cover this kind of a job?

[Stephen 325TDS]

I haven't seen a Bently manual, although I hear that they are very good!
I use a Haynes manual.

Stephen