Greetings to all,
This is my first post, but I have already read all the threads I could find on the subjects. I have not got satisfactory answers, only more questions. The comments of those more experienced would be appreciated.
I recently bought a 2000 323i with a manual transmission. The steering wheel has started to shake at low RPM / engine loads. I took it to a local shop to check the tire balance, which they said was okay. They told me the control arm bushings were shot. I want to use this opportunity to do right by my front suspension. It is my daily driver, but I would love to use it on the occasional track day. Of course, I don’t have unlimited funds, so I have to consider cost to benefit ratios. Here are my questions as they stand right now:
1. Do M3 parts fit on non M3 cars? What I have read offers conflicting opinions.
2. Powerflex bushings seem a good idea, but is it worth the extra money to get solid, 1-piece, delrin control arm brackets? If so, how well would such brackets be on the street? Are they worth it?
3. Do I also need to replace the control arms? I have read that there was a recall, or at least a service bulletin on them. How can I tell if they are bad? How do I know if the previous owner already replaced them? What aftermarket replacements might be considered?
4. Do I need to replace the front anti roll bar mounts while I am in the area?
5. How important is it to replace the tie rod assemblies and swaybar links? How can I tell if they need replacing?
This is all I can think of right now. No doubt a discussion will bring to light more questions. Thank you for your time and response. It will help me have a good E46 experience.
Happy motoring,
Quadrant5
:drama:
This is my first post, but I have already read all the threads I could find on the subjects. I have not got satisfactory answers, only more questions. The comments of those more experienced would be appreciated.
I recently bought a 2000 323i with a manual transmission. The steering wheel has started to shake at low RPM / engine loads. I took it to a local shop to check the tire balance, which they said was okay. They told me the control arm bushings were shot. I want to use this opportunity to do right by my front suspension. It is my daily driver, but I would love to use it on the occasional track day. Of course, I don’t have unlimited funds, so I have to consider cost to benefit ratios. Here are my questions as they stand right now:
1. Do M3 parts fit on non M3 cars? What I have read offers conflicting opinions.
2. Powerflex bushings seem a good idea, but is it worth the extra money to get solid, 1-piece, delrin control arm brackets? If so, how well would such brackets be on the street? Are they worth it?
3. Do I also need to replace the control arms? I have read that there was a recall, or at least a service bulletin on them. How can I tell if they are bad? How do I know if the previous owner already replaced them? What aftermarket replacements might be considered?
4. Do I need to replace the front anti roll bar mounts while I am in the area?
5. How important is it to replace the tie rod assemblies and swaybar links? How can I tell if they need replacing?
This is all I can think of right now. No doubt a discussion will bring to light more questions. Thank you for your time and response. It will help me have a good E46 experience.
Happy motoring,
Quadrant5
:drama: