Front control arm ball joint

[m3f_bluptgm3]

Uhmmmm this indicates a wheel base of 2700mm (106.3) for run-of-the mill E36.


https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_3_Series_(E36)


And this indicating M3 also with 106.3 and the convertible with WB of 106.7 -

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_M3#E36_M3

What is your source? Somebody with access to TIS should update Wiki!!


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[m3f_M_Parallel]

Uhmmmm this indicates a wheel base of 2700mm (106.3) for run-of-the mill E36.


https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_3_Series_(E36)


And this indicating M3 also with 106.3 and the convertible with WB of 106.7 -

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_M3#E36_M3

What is your source? Somebody with access to TIS should update Wiki!!


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My 328i and M3 owner's manual and the tons of E36 brochhures I have.


All E36's have a 2700mm wheelbase, regardless of coupe/cabrio/touring/sedan/compact, except all M3 3.2's that have the 2710mm wheelbase.


While 10mm sounds like nothing, when you see side pics, you can clearly see the wheel of the 3.2 being slighty off center in the arch (fender).


Just Google some pics and you'll see. And I wouldn't bet my life on Wiki's.

[m3f_M_Parallel]

Touring/Compact example. Same for coupe/cabrio













Example 3.2 cabrio/coupe

[m3f_M_Parallel]

Non M Sedan/coupe

[m3f_M_Parallel]

Non M Sedan/coupe









p.s. after looking at some 3.0 brochures, funnily enough, I see 2710 listed as well for the 3.0. Now I know BMW has numerous printing errors in their ETK/ETM as well. I seriously think this is another one.



I have the 3.0 setup on my 328 and before that stock. The wheel is exactly centered in the fender. On the 3.2 it clearly is more torwards the front.



Both my E36's are parked side by side and it doesn't take 20/20 vision to see these.



This was also the case when my PSS9/BBS wheel were fitted to the 328i and now the exact same struts/wheel (and tires) on the M3 3.2. The wheel is clearly sitting more forwards.



So I'm still saying it's 2700mm for all E36's including M3 3.0's.



I don't have access to a M3 3.0 owners manual. Would really love to see what's printed in there.

[m3f_kyrix1st]

I suppose the best option is 3.0 offset CAB+ 3.2 control arms for the max positive caster.

[m3f_bluptgm3]

I suppose the best option is 3.0 offset CAB+ 3.2 control arms for the max positive caster.

Most people who have done something similar (1996+M3 Spindle/King Pin/FLCA + 1995M3 Offset FLCABushing) generally go back to 1996+M3 Centered FLCABushings due to rubbing issues and too much caster.


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[m3f_kyrix1st]

Most people who have done something similar (1996+M3 Spindle/King Pin/FLCA + 1995M3 Offset FLCABushing) generally go back to 1996+M3 Centered FLCABushings due to rubbing issues and too much caster.



The 1996+M3 King Pin/Spindle has a corresponding lug revision to match the change in ball joint location in the 1996+M3 FLCA.





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How bad does it rub? I'm running 235/40/17.

[m3f_bluptgm3]

How bad does it rub? I'm running 235/40/17.

I varies depending on wheel width, offset, and thickness of spacer used.


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[m3f_kyrix1st]

I varies depending on wheel width, offset, and thickness of spacer used.





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I currently run 15mm spacers front for Brembo F40 BBK + style 24 wheels (option aluminum alloy) which IIRC has an offset of 38. Planning to give -2 to -2.5 camber on each side with +1.5 caster and little bit of toe out depending on how it drives. Would this rub?

[m3f_bluptgm3]

I cannot speak to you specific set, but my guess is yes. It is better to go to camber plates IF you think you need more caster. Not sure how much more you can get with Plates however.


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[m3f_Hasan Shaikh]

I would also suggest going with camber/caster plates. At least you can dial back a bit if it rubs too much.

[m3f_Hasan Shaikh]

How are you planning to increase the camber?

[m3f_kyrix1st]

How are you planning to increase the camber?

Swapped strut mount works the best it seems.

[m3f_bluptgm3]

Swapped strut mount works the best it seems.

Swapped 1996+M3 Bearing Plates/Guide Supports.


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