Hey guys,

Any good sources besides the dealer to get this tool? And does anyone know exactly what size it is?

thanks much,

Dave

Just get a set of metrix Hex keys. should be 8mm or 10mm. You can break it loose using just hex keys without using the socket hex bits.

I thought about that, but the sizes are wierd. The actual nut is like a 10 pointed star, so there's some slop and some are tight, I'm afraid I'm going to strip them out.

I guess I'll just have to go to the dealer to get the correct tool.

thanks though.
Dave

It is called a Torx drive. Mine looks like a screwdriver. I got mine at OSH. I had to use a tap to get a few of mine out. Then I went and got metric steel ones at OSH with allenhead drive. Makes it much easier. Make sure you use some Loctite when you reinstall. The only disadvantage to the steel ones is you can get a bit of rust on them. It would be great if you could find some anodized ones.

Post from a google search:

To remove the wheel covers on an E34 M5 you'll need a 6mm 12pt driver. BMW
refers to these as dodecagon wrenches (which actually means "a plane figure
with 12 angles and sides"). They're available from Snap-on Tools (stock
number FTSM6B) as a 3/8 inch socket driver for about $10 - $15. Snap-on
calls them "triple square socket drivers." (Certainly more descriptive!)

If you used a Torx or Allen wrench, without success, I would also replace
the bolts. I believe they're aluminum and the points are pretty fine to
start with - they strip easily. Trust me, I speak from experience. In any
event, the bolts are pretty cheap and it's worth keeping some extras around.

Although the '91 and '93 wheels are the same, only the covers/inserts
differed, the '91 wheels with the functional 3-piece turbines use a longer
bolt (M6x30 versus the M6x20 bolt for the "twisting star" wheel cover).
Make sure you get the correct length. Also be sure to use Locktite 242 on
the bolt.

**********************
Subject: M5 wheel wrench follow-up

Oops. The correct NAPA part number for the dodecagon wrench is #2302. I paid
$6.49 for mine. The 30mm bolts are 36 11 2 226 326 (BMWNA suggested list
$1.33 each), and the 20mm bolts (throwing star covers) are 36 11 2 227 124
(List $ 0.92 each). Also, to add to Ken's comments, the specified torque is
9Nm or 6.5 ft lbs. Use Loctite Blue.

So find some M6x20 anodized steel bolts if you can.

Thanks Kevin,

I'll let ya know what I find.

D