Struts and Lowering Springs

Post Tue Jan 14, 2014 1:16 pm

Can you use springs designed for 45mm struts with 51mm struts?

My searches aren't giving any obvious answers.

I have some -30mm springs for a 318i saloon lying around but my tourer (316i) uses 51mm struts.

I know the extra weight on the rear end may make it lower than intended, but I'm willing to take the risk.

Cheers Guys

Post Tue Jan 14, 2014 1:46 pm

Spings are the same fitment for both strut sizes.
Your springs will give the intended ride height on the front, but will sit lower than they should at the rear, assuming there's no wear in the suspension affecting ride height.

Post Tue Jan 14, 2014 2:14 pm

Cheers Brian, The rear shocks are a bit tired and are being renewed, hence why i thought about asking the question, 2 birds one stone (giving myself extra work doing the fronts i know). I have receipts for the trailing arm bushes from a couple of years ago but will check for obvious wear front and back in the normal places.

Post Wed Jan 15, 2014 10:15 pm

If the rear drops more than expected you can prop it up with spacers such as these:

http://www.ebay.de/itm/BMW-E30-E36-E46- ... 257f81d18b

In the worst case scenario, use 2 factory rubber perchs zip tied together on the cone. I have done both before as my touring had the back sag.