04 4.4 A/C Compressor Removal

X5F · #1 03-05-2019, 09:36 AM

Hi all, has anyone had experience removing the A/C Compressor from a facelift N62? I for the life of me cannot work out how to remove the rear 13mm bolt holding it to the engine. There is just no way to get at it from what I can see. There are no videos online either showing the removal on an e53. Any tips appreciated !

andrewwynn · #2 03-05-2019, 01:53 PM

If anything like the impossible 13mm bolt behind the power steering pump you need a through hole ratchet.

Since the socket itself fits through the ratchet it's extremely low profile but also has some offset so it fits around stuff and works better than ratcheting wrench.

Crescent CX6PT20 X6 Pass-Through Ratchet and Sockets, 20-Piece https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009L8GEPM..._LGRFCbNTTTNWV

That's the exact set I have

X5F · #3 03-05-2019, 06:45 PM

Thanks for your response!

The PS pump looks like it has excellent access in comparison to the A/C compressor.

I don’t think I’d have a hope at all with the pass through set, just no access or correct angle of attack to loosen the bolt. It’s even hard to see the bolt from under the car.

I’m hoping someone has actually done it on a late E53 4.4 and may have some tips.

andrewwynn · #4 03-05-2019, 09:29 PM

I have PDF Repair manual I can see if any tips.

You can't see the PS bolt either entirely by feel.

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X5F · #5 03-06-2019, 08:11 AM

That would be great! I see what your talking about with the PS too, but that’s much more accessible in comparison to the rear bolt of the A/C compressor!

X5F · #6 03-06-2019, 11:02 PM

Anyone know ? Surely someone has done this on an E53 before ! I’m off the road until I can get the bolt out. Can’t understand why BMW has to make this a nightmare

andrewwynn · #7 03-06-2019, 11:24 PM

I did a bunch of searching no luck so far. My repair manual only covers the M54.

How about a couple photos?

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andrewwynn · #8 03-07-2019, 12:06 AM

Here's the best how-to I've found. It's for the E70 but the tech says it's similar.

https://www.justanswer.com/bmw/8e2b7...-removing.html

The directions say to remove the wheel and fender well plastics to access from the side.

X5F · #9 03-07-2019, 05:05 AM

Thank you! I was wondering if pulling off the wheel & plastics would help.

For some reason this is poorly documented online for the N62.

I don’t know what they were thinking with the third bolt location, if I manage to get it out I’m going to leave it out, the two at the front are sufficient.

I tried to upload a pic, but can’t seem to get the correct dimensions via mobile device.

Will keep you updated

X5F · #10 03-07-2019, 08:54 PM

Wow the nightmare continues, pull wheel off (after looking for the locking nut for an hour) and undo all visible nuts holding wheel well plastic liner on, following pelican parts diagram and instructions pull it very hard and crack goes the liner. Is there a hidden bolt that is hiding behind the abs sensor plug ? Something is giving huge resistance. I cannot believe all this additional work for a single bolt for the compressor!