Coilover Recommendation

[Carl Spackler]

Hey guys, I’m basically looking for a Coilover setup that won’t ruin ride quality. I currently have Dinan Springs and shocks (Koni Yellow) with Turner sways and the ride is very comfortable. I’d like height adjustability and obviously improved handling but won’t be heavily tracking the car, if ever.

Recommendations appreciated. Thanks for setting up the new forum. 👍🏼

[r4dr]

https://groundcontrolstore.com/collections/e46-m3-coilover-conversion/products/coilover-conversion-kit-bmw-e46-m3-01-up

Koni Yellows are very streetable, why not repurpose what you have? All you would need to do is get a street-appropriate spring rate and some adjusters. Unfortunately your Dinan springs aren't the correct style for a coilover. If that sounds good I'd give GC a call.

[Carl Spackler]

Wasn’t aware this was an option, very cool. I’ll have a discussion with them about spring rate. Thanks!

[liam821]

KW v2/v3 makes a very street-friendly setup, as does Bilstein PSS10s - as long as you don't slam the car. Those two would be my go-to for an OEM++ setup. Personally I like the Bilstien mono-tube damper design better...

P.S. I run ground-control sleeves with custom rate Eibach springs and custom valved Bilsteins dampers on my race car - it's a great setup. Just need to make sure your spring rates are compatible with your dampers valving or you'll have a sad panda. But out of the box, bolt on to the car and go - the PSS10s or V2/V3s is a great option.

[Rennfahrer]

I have run TC Kline SA’s for over a decade on the car (replaced a set). They are awesome.

[Tbonem3]

Ohlins, bilsteins/HR with linear springs, TCK d/as, KWv3 with linear springs, eibach kit

[BMWahba]

I enjoy the Ohlins a lot. Check them out from 3DmMotorsport because Barry is a wealth of knowledge and always willing to help!

[Carl Spackler]

Lots of opinions here, thank you.

What are the downsides of the GC conversion versus a “full” coilover?

[Obioban]

Lots of opinions here, thank you.

What are the downsides of the GC conversion versus a “full” coilover?

Stock bump travel IIRC.

why do you want adjustable ride height?

[Carl Spackler]

Mostly aesthetics. I have a daily and share a different track car. Want to lose the gap, keep ride quality and any improved handling is a bonus.

[Tbonem3]

Get some cheap H&Rs or kwv1 aka ST then. OR BC or the other asian made ones.

[r4dr]

The dude literally wants to adjust ride height for cruising around town, dropping $3k on a set of Ohlins R&T is a good suggestion? Some of the responses in here are wild.

I'd take Koni shocks (either Yellows or GC/TCK) over KW/ST, H&R or BC any day.

[D-O]

Eibach Pro-Street S coilovers. The included springs (400/450) are firm rather than harsh, and it will be neutral and predictable with suitable tires and alignment.

Jesse

[Carl Spackler]

Pretty much every setup has been mentioned here. Probably because suspension feel is subjective.

I have Koni yellows on the car in good shape. Trying to figure out how much there is to gain/lose with a $1200 Coilover vs the conversion at $500. There was mention of loss of bump travel but is it to the point of actually feeling it on the street?

[r4dr]

I think people read "coilover" then blackout and pimp their favorite brand, regardless of whether it even makes sense for the use case. For the bumpstop details, call GC and ask. They custom make their bump stops and they're very familiar with Koni.