Thoughts on M3 Suspension Bits

WesleyC · 09-24-2015, 08:42 PM

Hi guys,

I'm planning on adding some M3 suspension bits to my E92 in order to firm up the ride a bit and make the handling a bit more compliant. I currently have Koni Yellows, H&R Sports & Dinan camber plates.

I am planning to add the M3 tension rods, wishbones, guide rods and upper links. I've read nothing but positive things about the tension rods and wishbones, but there isn't too much out there regarding the guide rods and upper links.

For you guys that have the guide rods and upper links, did they make a noticeable difference in the rear? At the same time that I'm doing this, are there any other upgrades that are advisable?

I appreciate any feedback.

Thanks!

justpete · 09-24-2015, 10:50 PM

The M3 rear upper links would be kinda pointless without stiffer subframe bushings. But all things considered they'd be pretty much the last thing to change since they contribute the least compared to other options which depen on how much street comfort you're willing to give up.

mike-y · 09-24-2015, 10:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by WesleyC

Hi guys,

I'm planning on adding some M3 suspension bits to my E92 in order to firm up the ride a bit and make the handling a bit more compliant.

"firm up the ride", will not make handling "more compliant" as they are opposites

I think you want to make handling sharper and a bit more responsive with the M3 bits, which they'll do.

justpete · 09-24-2015, 10:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mike-y

"firm up the ride", will not make handling "more compliant" as they are opposites

I think you want to make handling sharper and a bit more responsive with the M3 bits, which they'll do.

Good point, I read it as compliant meaning more compliant to driver input. Then again it might've been the second Moscow Mule.....

WesleyC · 09-24-2015, 11:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by justpete

The M3 rear upper links would be kinda pointless without stiffer subframe bushings. But all things considered they'd be pretty much the last thing to change since they contribute the least compared to other options which depen on how much street comfort you're willing to give up.

Thanks for the input. The M3 subframe bushings are also on my radar - I forgot to mention that.

Quote:

Originally Posted by mike-y

"firm up the ride", will not make handling "more compliant" as they are opposites

I think you want to make handling sharper and a bit more responsive with the M3 bits, which they'll do.

Sorry for the confusion. Justpete is correct. I meant more compliant regarding driver input.

justpete · 09-24-2015, 11:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by WesleyC

Sorry for the confusion. Justpete is correct. I meant more compliant regarding driver input.

Whoa. Barkeep! 'Nother Mule!

How'd that happen?

tetsuo111 · 09-29-2015, 08:08 PM

I'll have what he's drinking....

justpete · 09-29-2015, 08:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tetsuo111

I'll have what he's drinking....

Colorado Bulldog. Fer now...

Tom Droze · 09-29-2015, 08:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by justpete

Colorado Bulldog. Fer now...

I'll have what he's having!

tetsuo111 · 09-29-2015, 08:39 PM

A round for all on the house!

justpete · 09-29-2015, 08:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tetsuo111

A round for all on the house!

w00t

What's our favorite then? Virtual bar's open.

tetsuo111 · 09-29-2015, 09:03 PM

I'll have a bourbon, and three more for the pretty ladies sitting at the table

Probably feeling a little zippy in anticipation of new front suspension bits going on the car tomorrow. Imagine that - on an xDrive!

To OP - regrets on taking your serious and worthwhile thread waaaaay down in the gutter

justpete · 09-29-2015, 09:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tetsuo111

I'll have a bourbon, and three more for the pretty ladies sitting at the table

Dammit, can't see the table from way down here in the gutter...

feuer · 09-29-2015, 09:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by justpete

Whoa. Barkeep! 'Nother Mule!

How'd that happen?

I will give up on the malt drinks and go for something stronger!

justpete · 09-29-2015, 09:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by feuer

I will give up on the malt drinks and go for something stronger!

d00d! that's how we ended up here face down in the gutter. Metaphorically speaking of course. Or not. Your call...

justpete · 09-29-2015, 09:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tetsuo111

Probably feeling a little zippy in anticipation of new front suspension bits going on the car tomorrow. Imagine that - on an xDrive!

We're gonna get a report, right? Gonna be cool...

tetsuo111 · 09-29-2015, 10:22 PM

You bet, Pete. Installing traction arms upgraded with sealed spherical bushings tomorrow. I had these fabricated by an indy race shop. They're excited. I know enough to calibrate expectations before celebrating.

Driving up to Vancouver BC Friday for the weekend. Must find an excuse to continue on to Whistler. The Sea to Sky road from Vancouver to Whistler is breathtaking, smooth and winding above the coast, beneath the Coastal Range mountains. Should have a clearer picture whether or not the new bits are the real deal after my trip.

justpete · 09-29-2015, 10:29 PM

Traction arms = toe arms?

Never been to the Pacific NW, gotta be incredible driving there. Post a pic or two maybe?

tetsuo111 · 09-30-2015, 11:20 AM

I live in the topsy-turvy, bizarro xDrive world. The AWD front suspension is reverse of the RWD front suspension. So the upper strut is in the rear and the lower wishbone is in front. I think traction strut is called tension link for RWD.

Sea to Sky Hwy - one of the great driving roads. Sadly, the Canadians drive even slower than Seattle people. In the left lane. I love our Canadian brothers and sisters, but I'm from Chicago. 80 mph is average where I grew up. More like 50 here....

justpete · 09-30-2015, 03:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tetsuo111

I live in the topsy-turvy, bizarro xDrive world. The AWD front suspension is reverse of the RWD front suspension. So the upper strut is in the rear and the lower wishbone is in front. I think traction strut is called tension link for RWD.

Sea to Sky Hwy - one of the great driving roads. Sadly, the Canadians drive even slower than Seattle people. In the left lane. I love our Canadian brothers and sisters, but I'm from Chicago. 80 mph is average where I grew up. More like 50 here....

Oh! Thanks for that, makes sense now. Slow in the fast lane, gotta love it...

Beautiful drive, wow!

WesleyC · 09-30-2015, 08:30 PM

What happened in this thread?

Anyway, I ordered the front control arms. I will get those installed first and go from there.

justpete · 09-30-2015, 08:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by WesleyC

What happened in this thread?

Anyway, I ordered the front control arms. I will get those installed first and go from there.

Posting Under the Influence, PUI The scourge of late night intarnetz...

Let us know how the control arms work out, will be interested to hear about your observations.

09-24-2015, 08:42 PM	#1
WesleyC Colonel 54 Rep 2,907 Posts Drives: BMW Join Date: Dec 2008 iTrader: (20)	Thoughts on M3 Suspension Bits Hi guys, I'm planning on adding some M3 suspension bits to my E92 in order to firm up the ride a bit and make the handling a bit more compliant. I currently have Koni Yellows, H&R Sports & Dinan camber plates. I am planning to add the M3 tension rods, wishbones, guide rods and upper links. I've read nothing but positive things about the tension rods and wishbones, but there isn't too much out there regarding the guide rods and upper links. For you guys that have the guide rods and upper links, did they make a noticeable difference in the rear? At the same time that I'm doing this, are there any other upgrades that are advisable? I appreciate any feedback. Thanks!
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09-24-2015, 10:50 PM	#2
justpete Brigadier General 1233 Rep 3,778 Posts Drives: '11 328i '19 M6 Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: DFW iTrader: (0) Garage List 2019 BMW M6 [10.00] 2011 BMW 328i [9.00]	The M3 rear upper links would be kinda pointless without stiffer subframe bushings. But all things considered they'd be pretty much the last thing to change since they contribute the least compared to other options which depen on how much street comfort you're willing to give up. __________________ 2011 E90 328i 6MT, BMW Aero, CF hood/boot, PI+CAI+RM+3IM+BPC, SS+CI528+ThermoTec+SS#1+2XBurns, AKG 75D eng/trans, Al/Delrin diff/RS, CM 850, UCP, CAE, AKG DSSR, DiffsOnline 3.91 30/90 LSD+BW cooler, C&R, Setrab, Accusump, AST 3-way+Swift, Aurora PR+BW spherical, Vorshlag CPs, M3 brace+UR bar, ARC-8 18x8.5, 255 R1R, RB/CSL rotors+cooling, 135i calipers, RS29, RT700, Safecraft, OMP HTE-R+804F+QD Superquadro, 6pt cage+FIA, Braille, RT DL1Mk3
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09-29-2015, 08:08 PM	#7
tetsuo111 Save the Manuals! 1227 Rep 1,239 Posts Drives: E91 RWD 6MT, X3, Ducati S4R Join Date: Dec 2014 Location: PNW iTrader: (0) Garage List 2011 E91 6MT RWD &q ... [0.00] 2005 Ducati S4R 996 [0.00] 2000 Ducati M750 [0.00] RIP - 2011 E91 328i ... [10.00]	I'll have what he's drinking.... __________________ 2011 6MT RWD ClubSport Wagon \| 3,185lbs \| 1 of 149 ZSPs delivered in North America Outside: BMW M-Aero, Euro region lighting, Seibon \| Inside: M3 cockpit, Recaro SPG, Prototipo, AutoSolutions SSK, UCP \| Stop: M3 ST-40R, PFC \| Grip: Solid-mounted subframes, rear coilover conversion, M3 Nitron R3, Hyperco, SPL, AKG, ARC8 \| Go: StageFP, CF snorkel, 3IM, MILVs, SuperSprint headers, Dundon Motorsports Inconel exhaust, VoltPhreaks \| Cool: CSF \| PCA #2018100384 \| BMW CCA #505794
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09-29-2015, 08:39 PM	#10
tetsuo111 Save the Manuals! 1227 Rep 1,239 Posts Drives: E91 RWD 6MT, X3, Ducati S4R Join Date: Dec 2014 Location: PNW iTrader: (0) Garage List 2011 E91 6MT RWD &q ... [0.00] 2005 Ducati S4R 996 [0.00] 2000 Ducati M750 [0.00] RIP - 2011 E91 328i ... [10.00]	A round for all on the house! __________________ 2011 6MT RWD ClubSport Wagon \| 3,185lbs \| 1 of 149 ZSPs delivered in North America Outside: BMW M-Aero, Euro region lighting, Seibon \| Inside: M3 cockpit, Recaro SPG, Prototipo, AutoSolutions SSK, UCP \| Stop: M3 ST-40R, PFC \| Grip: Solid-mounted subframes, rear coilover conversion, M3 Nitron R3, Hyperco, SPL, AKG, ARC8 \| Go: StageFP, CF snorkel, 3IM, MILVs, SuperSprint headers, Dundon Motorsports Inconel exhaust, VoltPhreaks \| Cool: CSF \| PCA #2018100384 \| BMW CCA #505794
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09-29-2015, 09:03 PM	#12
tetsuo111 Save the Manuals! 1227 Rep 1,239 Posts Drives: E91 RWD 6MT, X3, Ducati S4R Join Date: Dec 2014 Location: PNW iTrader: (0) Garage List 2011 E91 6MT RWD &q ... [0.00] 2005 Ducati S4R 996 [0.00] 2000 Ducati M750 [0.00] RIP - 2011 E91 328i ... [10.00]	I'll have a bourbon, and three more for the pretty ladies sitting at the table Probably feeling a little zippy in anticipation of new front suspension bits going on the car tomorrow. Imagine that - on an xDrive! To OP - regrets on taking your serious and worthwhile thread waaaaay down in the gutter __________________ 2011 6MT RWD ClubSport Wagon \| 3,185lbs \| 1 of 149 ZSPs delivered in North America Outside: BMW M-Aero, Euro region lighting, Seibon \| Inside: M3 cockpit, Recaro SPG, Prototipo, AutoSolutions SSK, UCP \| Stop: M3 ST-40R, PFC \| Grip: Solid-mounted subframes, rear coilover conversion, M3 Nitron R3, Hyperco, SPL, AKG, ARC8 \| Go: StageFP, CF snorkel, 3IM, MILVs, SuperSprint headers, Dundon Motorsports Inconel exhaust, VoltPhreaks \| Cool: CSF \| PCA #2018100384 \| BMW CCA #505794
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09-29-2015, 10:22 PM	#17
tetsuo111 Save the Manuals! 1227 Rep 1,239 Posts Drives: E91 RWD 6MT, X3, Ducati S4R Join Date: Dec 2014 Location: PNW iTrader: (0) Garage List 2011 E91 6MT RWD &q ... [0.00] 2005 Ducati S4R 996 [0.00] 2000 Ducati M750 [0.00] RIP - 2011 E91 328i ... [10.00]	You bet, Pete. Installing traction arms upgraded with sealed spherical bushings tomorrow. I had these fabricated by an indy race shop. They're excited. I know enough to calibrate expectations before celebrating. Driving up to Vancouver BC Friday for the weekend. Must find an excuse to continue on to Whistler. The Sea to Sky road from Vancouver to Whistler is breathtaking, smooth and winding above the coast, beneath the Coastal Range mountains. Should have a clearer picture whether or not the new bits are the real deal after my trip. __________________ 2011 6MT RWD ClubSport Wagon \| 3,185lbs \| 1 of 149 ZSPs delivered in North America Outside: BMW M-Aero, Euro region lighting, Seibon \| Inside: M3 cockpit, Recaro SPG, Prototipo, AutoSolutions SSK, UCP \| Stop: M3 ST-40R, PFC \| Grip: Solid-mounted subframes, rear coilover conversion, M3 Nitron R3, Hyperco, SPL, AKG, ARC8 \| Go: StageFP, CF snorkel, 3IM, MILVs, SuperSprint headers, Dundon Motorsports Inconel exhaust, VoltPhreaks \| Cool: CSF \| PCA #2018100384 \| BMW CCA #505794
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09-29-2015, 10:29 PM	#18
justpete Brigadier General 1233 Rep 3,778 Posts Drives: '11 328i '19 M6 Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: DFW iTrader: (0) Garage List 2019 BMW M6 [10.00] 2011 BMW 328i [9.00]	Traction arms = toe arms? Never been to the Pacific NW, gotta be incredible driving there. Post a pic or two maybe? __________________ 2011 E90 328i 6MT, BMW Aero, CF hood/boot, PI+CAI+RM+3IM+BPC, SS+CI528+ThermoTec+SS#1+2XBurns, AKG 75D eng/trans, Al/Delrin diff/RS, CM 850, UCP, CAE, AKG DSSR, DiffsOnline 3.91 30/90 LSD+BW cooler, C&R, Setrab, Accusump, AST 3-way+Swift, Aurora PR+BW spherical, Vorshlag CPs, M3 brace+UR bar, ARC-8 18x8.5, 255 R1R, RB/CSL rotors+cooling, 135i calipers, RS29, RT700, Safecraft, OMP HTE-R+804F+QD Superquadro, 6pt cage+FIA, Braille, RT DL1Mk3
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09-30-2015, 11:20 AM	#19
tetsuo111 Save the Manuals! 1227 Rep 1,239 Posts Drives: E91 RWD 6MT, X3, Ducati S4R Join Date: Dec 2014 Location: PNW iTrader: (0) Garage List 2011 E91 6MT RWD &q ... [0.00] 2005 Ducati S4R 996 [0.00] 2000 Ducati M750 [0.00] RIP - 2011 E91 328i ... [10.00]	I live in the topsy-turvy, bizarro xDrive world. The AWD front suspension is reverse of the RWD front suspension. So the upper strut is in the rear and the lower wishbone is in front. I think traction strut is called tension link for RWD. Sea to Sky Hwy - one of the great driving roads. Sadly, the Canadians drive even slower than Seattle people. In the left lane. I love our Canadian brothers and sisters, but I'm from Chicago. 80 mph is average where I grew up. More like 50 here.... __________________ 2011 6MT RWD ClubSport Wagon \| 3,185lbs \| 1 of 149 ZSPs delivered in North America Outside: BMW M-Aero, Euro region lighting, Seibon \| Inside: M3 cockpit, Recaro SPG, Prototipo, AutoSolutions SSK, UCP \| Stop: M3 ST-40R, PFC \| Grip: Solid-mounted subframes, rear coilover conversion, M3 Nitron R3, Hyperco, SPL, AKG, ARC8 \| Go: StageFP, CF snorkel, 3IM, MILVs, SuperSprint headers, Dundon Motorsports Inconel exhaust, VoltPhreaks \| Cool: CSF \| PCA #2018100384 \| BMW CCA #505794
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09-30-2015, 08:30 PM	#21
WesleyC Colonel 54 Rep 2,907 Posts Drives: BMW Join Date: Dec 2008 iTrader: (20)	What happened in this thread? Anyway, I ordered the front control arms. I will get those installed first and go from there.
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