Installing IE stage 3 race springs Only

[xcx4x]

Hey everyone,

What are the implications of installing new IE3 stage 3 race springs on my 1990 325i bmw e30? Nothing on it has been changed (same struts, 14" wheels)

Some thoughts I have based on what I've dug up so far:

1. spacers in the rear will help with the "reverse rake" associated with IE3
-anyone have experience with this?

2. The new IE3 springs wont geometrically be compatible with my stock struts.
-so i can't JUST install the ie3 springs? I HAVE to get new struts too?

3.if i want to, i can cut the first coil off the front springs since IE3's are progressive springs and the first 2 coils compress fully on each other...
-this should help with the reverse rake?

Anyways, I just came upon the front springs from a friend and saw an offer for rear springs so i thought i'd complete the set.

Thanks for your help and insight!

-Alex

[dirtbag30]

you can install front and front springs with no modifications. but adding good shocks will only improve ride quality.

there has been people who cut the dead coil from the front of IE3's, yes.

lowering an e30 any amount will add negative camber. sub frame riser bushings and rtab weldable camber correction kits are available.

[AndrewBird]

With stock length struts, you will be hitting the bump stops a lot and will blow the struts if they aren't blown already. I'd say run the springs until you can afford to get new struts. Your stock struts aren't worth anything anyway, especially if they are original and blown.

[RedReplicant]

you can install front and front springs with no modifications. but adding good shocks will only improve ride quality.

there has been people who cut the dead coil from the front of IE3's, yes.

lowering an e30 any amount will add negative camber. sub frame riser bushings and rtab weldable camber correction kits are available.

Toe due to lowering is the real issue in the rear.

[mr.vang]

I would wait until I could afford a set of sport shocks, if I were you. You don't want new stock shocks because they will be blown within couple of months. Also, you only get to do the job once. For the reverse rake, go with front e90 top hat, no spring pads up front. For the rear, leave all pads intact. If you still don't like the rake, then cut the dead coil off. Just my .02

[reelizmpro]

Definitely get some Bilstein sports at a minimum. It will save you the trouble in the future and you'll be doing it right the first time. Remove the front spring pads and install extra pads in the rear. I did this to my vert because I didn't want it dumped or have reverse rake. If you want it dumped then go with e90 drop hats.

[MR 325]

Agreed. Don't waste the time installing until you have some sport shocks/struts to go with them.

[THEhomelessONE]

Read up on the Camaro shock sticky. Waste of time upgrading springs without shocks.