45mm vs 51mm struts

[fred purple]

So I bought coilover inserts, but the strut housings on my 318i are pretty rusted, to the point where I can't get the inserts on. I have 45mm diametre housings and was told that the 51mm from a non-318i wouldn't fit. Is this true? Anyone with experience?

[drumad]

edit: read my response below

[fred purple]

Anybody have any experience with this before I try?

[drumad]

so you bought inserts. I'm assuming for a 51mm ID struts yet you want to put them in 45mm ID struts.

In america, 51mm > 45mm, so if I do my research correctly I'll come to the conclusion that no, 51mm inserts from non 318i's will not fit into 45mm struts.

[Massive Lee]

So I bought coilover inserts, but the strut housings on my 318i are pretty rusted, to the point where I can't get the inserts on. I have 45mm diametre housings and was told that the 51mm from a non-318i wouldn't fit. Is this true? Anyone with experience?

45mm = early 318i (1984-85)
51mm = all other models

Not interchangeable.

[Jean]

Get the 51mm strut housings and swap them over.

[Massive Lee]

Get the 51mm strut housings and swap them over.

Best solution.^^^^^^^^

[fred purple]

thats exactly what I mean. Can I get 51mm housings and they will bolt right in or will I need sway bar links and stuff?

[Holland]

Get the 51mm strut housings and swap them over.

Lol, I kept my 45mm housings when I got my billie sports, but then again I intend to keep 4cyl in the car so I see no problems keeping the smaller stuff.

[Hellabad]

thats exactly what I mean. Can I get 51mm housings and they will bolt right in or will I need sway bar links and stuff?

They will bolt right in with no problems.

JM from GC

[Holland]

They will bolt right in with no problems.

JM from GC

BTW, I have had no problems yet with the Spec E30 camber plates on the street yet, absolutely love them.