When to use reinforcement plates?

[Michael_M]

Why should I use reinforcement plates? shouldn't the Chassis be designed to with withstand the inertia and forces exerted on them from the suspension ??

If so then when I should use them? Autocross? Daily drive? ridiculously lowered ti ?

Any inputs will be appreciated.. Just trying to figure out if I really need them or.. Stock 318ti but planning to do Vogtland springs and Shocks Jr. Cup suspension!

[1996 328ti]

Reinforce where?
I have +250,000 miles. Track it at least 3 weekends a year. A couple hard autocrosses on a road course on R comps.

H&R Race Springs with Koni SA.

Stock sway bars.

[Michael_M]

For the rear.. Sorry wasn't specific about that!

[pdxmotorhead]

Your talking about the shock upper mount area,,, its all about what you drive and how you drive it...

Most of the failures are due to worn out shock mounts that allow the shaft to hammer the mount area out.

Dave

[1996 328ti]

Originally Posted by Michael_M

For the rear.. Sorry wasn't specific about that!

I'd add reinforcements if you are running a bigger sway bar.
Other than that, I've had no issues.