E36 rack swap -THE correct location for the spacers - Page 2

VinniE30 · 11-01-2012, 05:57 PM

So the consensus is it's best to put the spacers at the top of the rack? I'm doing this soon and don't want to have to do it twice. Every thread I find on this is split on what's best.

Simon S · 11-02-2012, 10:12 AM

Good stuff here.

Quote:

Originally Posted by JonnyOg

Anyone have a pic of the spacers on the top of the rack?

AKG spacers. For whatever reason, I tried to place them on bottom first - but rack tube interfered with subframe mounting tab. Good to know top placement was better anyway.

Varinn · 01-26-2013, 09:26 AM

Are these spacers required for the rack swap? Im about to install mine and somehow neglected to grab some of these. Can i put the e36 rack in without any spacer and still have the car be driveable?

F34R · 01-26-2013, 09:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Varinn

Are these spacers required for the rack swap? Im about to install mine and somehow neglected to grab some of these. Can i put the e36 rack in without any spacer and still have the car be driveable?

Special made spacers are not a must(just more expensive). Go to Lowes or some hardware store to pick up spacers(washers). I personally run three spacers on top and three below.

The theory with the spacers on top makes sense, moves the rack down a bit more increasing bump steer. I really don't care since my entire setup is perfectly aligned and functions amazing. You will be gaining about 1/4" difference by putting the spacers(washers) on top instead of splitting. You are not harming anything one way or another. I doubt you will notice splitting or putting them on top or on the bottom.

Varinn · 01-26-2013, 10:12 AM

I do have complete lathe setup at work, I CAN stop in on my way home from a concert tonight after I drop off the date. I'd rather not, but I can. This will let me machine them exact, does anyone know the precise size for the best results?

Todd Black 88 · 01-26-2013, 10:54 AM

A little over 1/2"

F34R · 01-26-2013, 12:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Todd Black 88

A little over 1/2"

1+ I measured the space when I was searching for a spacer. Found that 6 washers fits a bit over 1/2(perfect).

Varinn · 01-26-2013, 09:02 PM

I'm gonna be stopping by my shop on the way home and machining a pair of spacers but in my sleep deprived state I cant remember what size the bolts were so I can drill an accurate bore. M8? And machine to about 12.5-13mm?

Also, random thing worth noting is that I did not have to bend any lines, I reversed the high pressure hose and it bolted up beautifully, it does come kind of close to touching the low press line however, but as it stands they are fully bolted in place. All I have left is the knuckle, spacers, control arms, and alignment.

11-01-2012, 05:57 PM	#16
VinniE30 R3VLimited Join Date: May 2010 Location: Abingdon, MD Posts: 2,081	So the consensus is it's best to put the spacers at the top of the rack? I'm doing this soon and don't want to have to do it twice. Every thread I find on this is split on what's best. __________________ Zinno '89 <24v swap in progress> \| Schwarz '91 335i M30B35 ---------------

01-26-2013, 10:54 AM	#21
Todd Black 88 E30 Mastermind Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: North Vancouver B.C. Posts: 1,576	A little over 1/2" __________________ S14 cams and S14 cam cover and airbox for sale here. http://www.r3vlimited.com/board/showthread.php?t=199495 1988 Blk/Blk e30 m3 1992 DS/BLK 325 m-tech II apperance pack cabby 2002 325xit. Sold 2012 328i xdrive touring

01-26-2013, 09:26 AM	#18
Varinn E30 Addict Join Date: Apr 2010 Location: Vancouver Posts: 562	Are these spacers required for the rack swap? Im about to install mine and somehow neglected to grab some of these. Can i put the e36 rack in without any spacer and still have the car be driveable?

01-26-2013, 10:12 AM	#20
Varinn E30 Addict Join Date: Apr 2010 Location: Vancouver Posts: 562	I do have complete lathe setup at work, I CAN stop in on my way home from a concert tonight after I drop off the date. I'd rather not, but I can. This will let me machine them exact, does anyone know the precise size for the best results?

01-26-2013, 09:02 PM	#23
Varinn E30 Addict Join Date: Apr 2010 Location: Vancouver Posts: 562	I'm gonna be stopping by my shop on the way home and machining a pair of spacers but in my sleep deprived state I cant remember what size the bolts were so I can drill an accurate bore. M8? And machine to about 12.5-13mm? Also, random thing worth noting is that I did not have to bend any lines, I reversed the high pressure hose and it bolted up beautifully, it does come kind of close to touching the low press line however, but as it stands they are fully bolted in place. All I have left is the knuckle, spacers, control arms, and alignment.