Springs

[adam_2922]

Can I swap the springs on my 1991 318i cab to 318is springs? Has anyone done this? Are there any complications and how hard is it to do?
Thanks

[Chris_B86]

Are the struts still 51mm on a 318i cab? If they are can't imagine it being an issue

[adam_2922]

Yeah they are (99% sure)

[Rtaylor2208]

Regardless of strut diameter they will pysically fit. The front should be fine, the rear may sit lower than it would on an IS as cab rear springs are specific to that model as cabs are heavier at the back.

[adam_2922]

Just checked, they are 51m. How easy/hard is it to replace springs?

[Chris_B86]

I know on the saloons they're only 45mm, but had an idea cabs are all 51mm?? If they are will be a direct replacement

[Rtaylor2208]

Just checked, they are 51m. How easy/hard is it to replace springs?

Both are fairly easy but it all depends if you have the correct tools and haev done something like this before.

The wiki guide will help keep you right.

[Chris_B86]

This will show you how to remove the struts, then it's just a question of disassembly

http://www.e30zone.net/e30zonewiki/inde ... ing_Struts

I used a spark plug socket with allen key through the middle and spanner to unbolt the top mounts

[Rtaylor2208]

Similar approach but with a box spanner:

Tools Required



Uploaded with ImageShack.us

Ratchet assembled:



Uploaded with ImageShack.us

And loosening the top nut:



Uploaded with ImageShack.us

[Morat]

Can I swap the springs on my 1991 318i cab to 318is springs? Has anyone done this? Are there any complications and how hard is it to do?
Thanks

She'll be down on her arse at the rear, Eibach list Cab and Touring as the same fitment. They're both heavier than the 2/4 doors.
I'm not an expert so you'll probably want to double check, but I'd be cautious.

[adam_2922]

I was actually planning on only doing the front. I am trying to compensate for the weight really. The car looks like it sits much higher at the front (mostly an optical illusion I know due to the wheel arches). I am only after a 15mm-25mm drop. It should also help a touch with wait distribution and slightly reduce the tendency for snap oversteer by having slightly stiffer front springs.