what to do when doing suspension

[wannabestig]

I'm sure this topic was covered extensively at m3f, but alas. I recently put on apex ec-7 18x9et31/18x10et25, and just ordered the bielstein B12 pro kit. I'm trying to figure out what else I need to put on while I'm installing the pro kit but can't find a comprehensive list. It sounds like I need front and rear strut reinforcement plates, as well as shorter end links, but there are some other stuff I need? Is this kit from turner overkill? (https://www.turnermotorsport.com/p-5...tallation-kit/)

[liam821]

There are lots of misc bushings you could replace, such as RTAB, LCA bushing, swaybar front/back bushings, tie rod ends, and so on. Not sure the number of miles you have on your car, but I'd inspect as best as you can beforehand and if you have higher mileage be proactive and replace where needed.

[FBloggs]

The b12 kit with factory strut mounts is barely lower than with stock springs. Shorter end links not necessary.
I recently replaced the front suspension and outer tie rods in addition to the B12 kit. Just about everything on the front end was worn out at 83k miles.
I replaced the rtabs, added limiters, replaced the rsms and added reinforcement plates at the rear. I can just about feel the bushings at the rear hubs to be somewhat looser but have not changed them.
I would recommend a total refresh and then you'll be good for a long while.

[Andrew 06M3Cab]

I recently did a suspension refresh and upgrade when I did my RACP reinforcement.

Car has 120k miles, and 60k on the suspension. It was tired and loose.

This is what I replaced, and the car now drives better than it did the day it rolled out of the factory:

Front strut mounts and bearings
tie rods
steering rack / tie rod boot

Ohlins R/T coilovers

redish RACP reinforcement plates
diff bushings (all)
rear subframe bushings
upper control arm bushings
lower control arm bushings
RTABS and limiters
shock mounts and gaskets
rear sway bar bushings
adjustable rear sway bar end links
rear show mount reinforcement plates
trailing arm ball joints
adjustable upper control arm / bushings

diff axle shaft seals, and pinion shaft seals

[8000RPM]

Depending on your mileage ^^ this is a good list with exception (in my experience only) the subframe bushings are pretty durable and most likely okay. Also include the front lower control arms to the replacement list. Those have non-replaceable ball joints. Expensive but you will most likely need them.

[Obioban]

Yep, depends on the mileage. If you're over ~100,000 miles, I'd do every bushing/bearing/ball joint on the car (I do all of them on all my cars every 100,000 miles).

[Maxhouse97]

Reviving this old thread … trying to plan a rear suspension refresh, what do folks think about this FCP kit, especially the Eibach arms? Not sure if these RTABs come with limiters…

https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw-ultimate-bushing-kit-rear-m3-z4m-e46m3bushkit3

[oceansize]

I had limiters but changed to monoball RTABS (so many here running them). No NVH penalty and a nice upgrade.