1993 BMW 740 93 BWM 740 iL

eric_j_olson · Posted at Sun Nov 30, 2008 8:13 pm

Suspension problem
1993 BMW 740 V8 Two Wheel Drive Automatic 198000 miles

My 93 740iL has developed a hard ride and a "clunking" sound in the rear suspension. The noise only occurs when going over larger bumps. (potholes, manhole covers etc.) Are there shocks that could need replacement. It seems to drive just fine and the tires are wearing normally. I had it aligned about 18 months ago. I also had it in the shop having the upper control arms up front rebuilt and the mechanic did not seem to find anything wrong in the rear. Thanks for the advice.

Dr. Hagerty · Posted at Sun Nov 30, 2008 10:21 pm

Is it the self leveling type of rear suspension? It could be the shocks are the culprit here. Could you please respond with the VIN, thanks.

eric_j_olson · Posted at Sun Nov 30, 2008 10:52 pm

I think it has self leveling as I was told all iL's from this era had them. The VIN is WBAGD8322PDE86666. Thanks for the help.

Dr. Hagerty · Posted at Mon Dec 01, 2008 8:55 am

Thanks for the repost! There are two nitrogen charged spheres that act as dampening devices and it is likely they have failed and will require replacement. My computer is being repaired as we speak and I will repost the part # for you as soon as possible. Realoem.com is a good place to look for them, they will be with the rear suspension in the 34 section.

eric_j_olson · Posted at Mon Dec 01, 2008 9:22 am

Thanks so much. I have heard them called "bombs" before. Can't wait to pick them up and get this car riding back to normal.

Dr. Hagerty · Posted at Mon Dec 01, 2008 9:31 am

That is correct and I would have called them "bombs" in my response but I didn't want to use a non-technical term without having some relatedness to or with you! I hope you can understand.

eric_j_olson · Posted at Tue Dec 02, 2008 7:31 am

Of course I understand your not using the non technical terms. I wanted to be sure I understood what your were talking about as I am a big time novice. Looking forward to your reply.

Love your cat picture - looks just like a cat my wife and I adopted when we were first married.

Dr. Hagerty · Posted at Tue Dec 02, 2008 9:46 am

We love our little gray cat! I had said the 34 and the part # is 37-21-1-132-043, sorry about the mistake! The retail price shows $186.48 each and John @ Autobahn dismantling, phone (619)444-2290 can ship them to you, I called him and he is ready to ship them to you at your leisure my friend.