Lower Tensioner Arms = Lower Control Arms?

[rcasey]

Thanks Ard, your comments are appreciated.

In an effort to gain a better understanding of the parts typically replaced, the image below is cut from BMW's workshop manual for the E70.

Are we talking about replacing the silent blocks in item #4 (Tension strut) or item # 12 (lower control arm) or both?

I occasionally experience a slight judder at speeds between 60 and 35 mph, and unlike my past experiences with worn rotors and brake judder, I cannot consistently replicate the judder at present.

My vehicle is an 08, 3.0 SI with 54K miles and had new OEM rotors and EBC 'RedStuff' pads installed @ 48K. Rotors were checked for run-out upon installation, were recently measured with known quality digital gauges indicate TIR (total indicated run-out) <0.0005" and thickness variation measured in 8 places < 0.0002"

Up until reading this thread on bushing replacement, my suspicions have pointed to the after-market brake pads. Now I'm in a quandary.

The only other info I can add: if I sit with engine idling, stationary on dry pavement and very gently rotate the steering wheel 2-3 degrees CW and immediately reverse 2-3 degrees CCW, I sense a free "zone" or light steering pressure "zone" as if there is some play in the steering mechanism that must be taken up before the tyres are moved. Quickly oscillating the steering wheel a few degrees CW/CCW does NOT produce any sounds.

Upon driving, I do not sense any wandering while driving on smooth pavement, and steering outputs are precise and exactly to the degree expected.

Experienced observations would be appreciated

Ciao,
Dick