Are there any steering shaft extensions (cabin side) to get the wheel towards driver?

[m3f_Braymond141]

I haven't driven my E36 in over a year now. Finalizing an extensive rebuild process and was working on the interior today. Everyone complains the E36 lacks tilt... this is NOT the problem with the E36. Aside from the wheel not siting center, it needs to telescope! Sitting in it today reminds me just how bad the wheel position is.


Are there any shaft extensions out there? I run an E46 M3 steering wheel that already puts the wheel closer, but not enough. I know quick disconnects put it out further, but I don't believe they function with OEM wheels. A "racing" wheel is not an option. Airbag is deleted, and horns are deleted. I just want an extension, quick release isn't necessary.


Anything?

[m3f_aeronaut]

Also interested if this is possible.

[m3f_Braymond141]

I can't find anything. It looks like most any quick release hub (momo, vac, rouge) would work if you machined a flange that adapted the race wheel bolt pattern to a center OEM shaft and thread setup.

[m3f_aeronaut]

I've searched a number of times also, with no luck. At some point, machining a spacer from stock might be the answer. Although would probably require a sacrificial upper steering shaft to get a splined center mounting bolt. I'd love to have the wheel 2", maybe 3" closer.

[m3f_scoobiedoo2029]

bmw steering column's are mostly the same spline counts on newer cars, i think there is teloscoping parts on e38's and older cars have them too. one might be able to cobble together something, but i see this being complex because of the ignition setup our cars have. but if ews and whatnot was deleted, i wonder if you could pull this off with oem parts. also i remember from doing crap on my e21 that there are standards in the sizing of splined objects, and there where some off the shelf parts that had the same size and spline count one could purchase, i think i was able to locate custom jeep parts for my attempt at adding e21 rack and pinion to a e28, i never completed this though, bump steer and column angle was to much. but the lower columns of these two cars are the same spline as a e36, i have e28 parts in my lower column.


i was thinking of just removing the shear bolts at the bottom of the column and adding a spacer to shift the entire column foreword, but this makes me wonder on accident safety on how the column is meant to collapse in an accident. but maybe this is the way to go.

[m3f_aeronaut]

Great idea (shifting whole column). You'd certainly change the safety design, but I'd consider this approach if possible.

[m3f_scoobiedoo2029]

Great idea (shifting whole column). You'd certainly change the safety design, but I'd consider this approach if possible.

from m3 onlys comulm bearing replacment thread: http://www.m3forum.net/m3forum/showthread.php?t=449097


looks to me that one could make a new bracket for the shear bolt connection and place the column where ever you want, the lower column might not reach anymore, but this isnt a big deal the right combination or bmw lower column parts from just about any bmw can make up the difference.


i dunno what kind of issues this might create though with other things, like airbag deployment and whatnot

[m3f_Dr. DC2]

Sounds like a lot of work. Good luck putting something together.


I've heard so many complain about the wheel's position, but it feels perfect to me.

[m3f_jayjaya29]

Move your seat forward?

[m3f_pbonsalb]

I thought there was some sort of rare E36 flexible steering option, though maybe it was just up and down rather than in and out.

[m3f_Braymond141]

Sounds like a lot of work. Good luck putting something together.


I've heard so many complain about the wheel's position, but it feels perfect to me.

When you drive one for extended periods of time you grow used to it, so yes in a way. When you drive better M3s (E46) or M5s and don't touch the E36 for a long time you immediately notice the issue. Next August will be 10 years with my 96 M3. It's a great car, but we shouldn't pretend it is without faults.

Move your seat forward?

I already sit in a proper upright seated position with Recaro Pole Positions. I'm 6'1. I'm already close enough with my leg still bent on full clutch in. No.

I thought there was some sort of rare E36 flexible steering option, though maybe it was just up and down rather than in and out.

This is tilt only on 94 production years and earlier. Tilt does nothing for me.

[m3f_Braymond141]

from m3 onlys comulm bearing replacment thread: http://www.m3forum.net/m3forum/showthread.php?t=449097





looks to me that one could make a new bracket for the shear bolt connection and place the column where ever you want, the lower column might not reach anymore, but this isnt a big deal the right combination or bmw lower column parts from just about any bmw can make up the difference.



i dunno what kind of issues this might create though with other things, like airbag deployment and whatnot

I think I may mess with making that work... but you still have to have enough protruding out into the engine bay. An E46 telescoping lower shaft should fit, but will require changing the flex disc type to E46.



2-3 inches would be great. I almost feel like 5" is what I really want though.

[m3f_aeronaut]

3" would make a huge difference, in a very good way.

[m3f_aeronaut]

Move your seat forward?

I *wish* I could move it back and down another inch.

[m3f_Richardsperry]

Just like them NASCAR guys, all up on the wheel like...lol



Think the E36 is bad? Try driving a Ferrari 308 or 328...lol You need 3 inch legs, and 3 foot arms... Them crazy Italians...