bellows length

[kayweb]

Hey there, I've got an 89 325I and the replacement rack (I know nothing about it, came with the car) has bellows that are a different length and shape vs the ones currently on it. Is this a problem?

Thanks in advance.

[DRTSRFR]

...shouldn't be a problem. Hell, I use shock boots on mine.:)

[AndrewBird]

As long as they are not stretched too far at full extension, it shouldn't be a problem. They are just dust boots.

[kayweb]

Another question: if I'm trying to loosen the clutch fan bolt and don't have a pulley holder, can I loosen it by cranking the engine with a wrench held to the bolt? I assume that bmw engines aren't counterclockwise rotation

[Cabriolet]

the ones on the new rack are OEM (type) now. but they really have zero affect on anything.
the ones are your old race are some random old brand. they actually look less stock, but again have zero impact as long as they do the job.

[36brua]

Another question: if I'm trying to loosen the clutch fan bolt and don't have a pulley holder, can I loosen it by cranking the engine with a wrench held to the bolt? I assume that bmw engines aren't counterclockwise rotation

remember the nut is left hand thread you can use a screw driver across bolt heads.

If you use the wrench and crank the engine please post video

[kayweb]

Decided that attempting to hold the wrench against the force of the starter motor would probably induce a trip to the emergency room hahaha. New tactic: big channel locks. Held the water pump pulley, braced against the alternator. Took one good tap with my palm and it came loose. I know that the nut is reverse threaded.