Bilstein Sport Shocks H&R Sport Springs

[thebutcher37]

PLEASE READ LATEST QUESTION WHICH IS POST #7


Hey Everyone, Im a Newbie so help is much appreciated.

I plan on installing some suspension goodies on my 1991 318iS soon.

Bilstein sport front P36-0335
Bilstein sport rear B36-0227
H&R sport Springs 50406 (stiffer cause the 6cyl is heavier?)

Im riding on 16x7 wheels et20 with 205/55-16 tires

First I would like to know if the parts i listed above will actually fit on my 318is. I would also like to know what else i should be replacing since im going to be doing this. I want to lower my stance and get some better handling, the car is my Daily Driver but i want it to be somewhat track worthy hence why im going with the H&R Bilstein combo...

Second, I would like some guidance!!!
What are the other suspension parts I should replace, ive read about trailing arms, bushings, sway bars, and like I said I am not too savvy on what these are or what they do. Of course money is an option so I cant just go out and buy brand new parts.. And if you guys would be so kind, go eazy on me. I want to learn... so it would help if what ever suggestions you gave me came along with why you suggested it, and what that component actually does.. etc

For instance I heard (RSM's) rear shock mounts right? these should be replaced, because stock ones are weak. well a little more info would be great, like, why does it need to be replaced and with what? should I replace mt FSM's? How does it actually work?.. etc

I know about searching, I do it, Ive done it, i will continue to do it, but theres something about having a thread where you can ask and receive a direct answer, instead of reading old posts and wondering hmm is that what he ment?


So once again I ask for your helps!

[Danny]

I have E46 heavy duty rear shock mounts in mine, I like them alot.

Also get H&R race. The sport will leave you wanting more.

[e30lyf]

Im riding on 16x7 wheels et20 with 205/55-16 tires

205/50/16 the right size for your car.

[robrez]

I'm in the process of putting together a similar upgrade on my 318i. Your shock/spring combo is a tried and true set-up. Only issue with the 50406 is that you'll get less of a drop in the front with your lighter 4-cylinder engine than you would with the 4 cylinder specific springs. But, like you said, the 50406s will be stiffer.

You should also change the rear shock mounts and front upper strut bearings while you're in there. As for the control arm bushing, subframe bushing, rear trailing arm bushings, if you don't have a ton of mileage, check them for wear and change if needed. They involve a lot more work. Another nice (cheap) upgrade for handling would be to swap in the bigger, stiffer front swaybar from the e30 convertible (21mm) and rear e30 M3/325iX (14.5 mm).

Good luck, did you find a pair of rear billie sports?

Check out m42club.com for more info. on 318is suspension options.

PS: If you can't/don't want to DIY, then I highly recommend E30 Motor Werks (LINK) in Garden Grove. Rob has quite a reputation on the E30 forums for his expertise in E30s and his reasonable prices. You can read more HERE and HERE.

Welcome to the forum, hope to hear more about your car soon, and post pics.

[thebutcher37]

Thanks RoBrez, I will check out the shop for anything i cant do my self or dont have time nor tools to do.....

As for another Question.. what RSM's should I choose, the car will most likely not see autoXdays, even though i would love to. But im a spirited driver i do like taking it out on my own and feeling the road (safely of course)... ill try and get some pics up tomorrow to show what my rear shock towers look like.. i took a look and they seem to have been welded somewhat.. so you guys can let me know what im dealing with....

[thebutcher37]

Help.. Anyone?

ok so I have Bilstein sport front inserts... P36-0335, and they dont fit into my strut housing, the only thing i can think of is that the P/O for some reason switched to the the older model smaller 45mm strut housing.. because these inserts are clearly made for my 91 318is but they dont fit!!! Ive also noticed that the ABS sensors were cut all around and the front strut assembly has no sign of where these would plug into ... what should i do... im gonna hit the junkyard up tomorrow.....Suggestions?:(

[smonkbmw]

car have a clean title? not sure why anyone would go through the trouble to remove ABS sensors unless the old parts were damaged. id say look for later model 325 tubes. i believe they are the same.

[robrez]

This guy is selling bilsteins for 45mm housings, and he's local, if you don't want to replace your housings. http://www.r3vlimited.com/board/show...highlight=45mm