Steering rack swaps: How much and are they worth it?

[DJLimes]

I see that its a pretty common mod on our e30s. I sure would like one when Im trying to parallel park, but is it worth it when youre actually driving or on the track?

[Todd Black 88]

Yes, worth it.

Cheap mod.

Do it

[mtech325]

There's really no point not to do it. Chances are your power steering hoses are leaking, and the tie rods are worn out, so why not turn maintenance into an upgrade. If you can do the work yourself you can get a refurb'd rack and the rest of the odds and ends for $300-500 said and done. Check out rackdoctor.net

--Joey

[MC Hammered]

Not sure what they are worth, but the short ratio z3 rack I have is fantastic!

[BlackSpeed66]

I have a z3 rack as well - 2.7 turns lock-to-lock I believe. One of the best mods I have done to the car. Even if you don't take the car to the track, it does make a spirited drive much more fun. Wish I could afford more track time though....

[Neil1138]

z3 2.7 > all.

Or maybe the e46 zhp rack.

[shedby_budwin]

I daily drive a car with a stock rack, but without power steering. Would a Z3 2.7 be much harder with manual steering? I could put the power steering back on if I had to, but honestly I kinda like it better without. Has anyone had a manual 2.7 rack?

[Todd Black 88]

Get the z4 rack if going manual. It's electric assist, so already no hydrolics

[Wanganstyle]

z3 2.7 > all.

Or maybe the e46 zhp rack.

Have you actually tried others?

I've ran in my own cars: z3, z4, e46m, e36m.

for a powered rack I prefer the e46m ; more angle than the z3.

[Gordo0208]

I absolutely love my Z3 steering rack. The steering is very nice, and the fact that I can pull a full U turn in seconds here in NYC to catch a parking spot as someone leaves it is priceless man. I also have a vert 21mm front sway bar which adds to the tighter steering. All I need now is a drop with some good shocks and struts. All in all, you will NOT be disappointed bro.

[jeffnhiscars]

+1 for rackdoctor. I just got my 3rd e36 rebuild from Rich. I got it with full tie rods this time and I have never seen plated inners plus a hex socket on the outer ball joint so the damn thing doesn't turn when you torque the lock nut.

[DetailAddict]

i think at the end of the day it really depends on what you see in your e30. some think it's crazy to spend more than 2-3k on the car. some have no problem 'investing' 20k into it. with that said, I picked one from rackdoctor and no regret here...

Leo

[frankie591]

I pulled one out of an e36 in a junkyard for 18 bucks. Has worked great for two seasons including lots of track time.

[NYSE30]

So which z3 rack is compatible or better for our E30? I see 3 different choices on rackdoctor.net I know its probably been mentioned 100 times but I want to order it ASAP so I appreciate the info.

[efficient]

I pulled one out of an e36 in a junkyard for 18 bucks. Has worked great for two seasons including lots of track time.

What a deal