z3 Steering rack retrofit: Install and information

[Bluebimma]

I’ve decided to try and pull as much information together on the steering rack swap from the z3 1.9 roadster to the e36 chassis since I’ve been seeing that a lot of people are having problems with their steering systems as well as myself.

So far I’ve collected this knowledge...please feel free to add more information but try to keep the thread on topic.

Parts needed [Part #'s from Realoem.com]

Z3 Steering Rack - Part #32131095575
2x Hexagon Screws with Flange - Part #32136751257
2x Hex nut with Flange - Part #31351095452
Piping - Part #32131096109
Power Steering Reservoir - Part #32411097164
New Crush Rings
Cadmium Banjo rings
New Power Steering Lines
You can use e36 tie rods with the Z3 rack....but I will look further into this.

While you’re down there, you might as well check everything else out as well, and/or upgrade other parts such as...

[Parts and Part #'s from Bavauto.com]
Control Arm w/solid ball joints - Left - Meyle - Part # : 31 12 1 140957M
Control Arm w/solid ball joints- Right - Meyle - Part # : 31 12 1 140958M
Performance Tuned Front Control Arm Bushing - Offset To Increase Caster - Part # : N81924BAV
Performance Tuned Front Control Arm Bushing - Part # : N81364BAV
Tie Rod Assembly - Left - Part # : 32 11 1 139 315
Tie Rod Assembly – Right - Part # : 32 11 1 139 316

A few places to get your z3 Steering rack:
Bimmerzone.com – Remanufactored MAVAL unit - Their price $306.22, Core $175.00…comes with remaned unit and tie rods.
Local Junkyard or forum – May be able to find a cheaper price.


Some info links:
http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=484333&referrerid=&highlight=Z3+STEERING+RACK

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=227276&highlight=steering+rack


Please add as needed to help benefit the topic. Still searching for a DIY and may have found it, but I need to look over it first and will post later.

Thanks,
Blue