Multi-Link Z-Axle...

[fourbanger]

I was just wondering, what is the fundamental difficulty in installing a multi-link z-axle rear suspension on the ti? Because if it's just the spare tire in the way, to hell with that!

Seriously though, today I was driving my dad's M42 318i and I regrettably envied the way the tail end stayed planted in some turns where my ti usually gives way to some remarkable oversteer. All this considering I have "fat" tires on 16's and he's got the stock little 15" rims and tires.

[BlackM42]

First, I'm fairly sure there's more preventing the Z-Link setup from being in a TI than the spare tire...
Second, why on earth would you want the rear to be MORE planted...?
I hear e36 people bitch and moan all day long about their awful low-speed understeer, and then harsh on the trailing arms all day long.

The fact that the ti uses e30 suspension is the soul reason I bought one.

Fraser

[fourbanger]

Well, I don't know what other people are talking about, because the only thing I get on my ti is oversteer. I only experienced understeer once, and that was a high-speed driver error. Plus, I'm figuring that the extra weight of the z-axle will balance the car out more, especially if i put a six under the hood.

[J!m]

I am fairly certain the z-link rear sub frame will not fit the ti. I may be wrong. I've never heard of anyone doing it, or wanting to do it.

You will be very pleased with the rear sub-frame from an M Coupe` or roadster. Why would you want to add any extra weight to a car? Any balance issues are quickly remidied with the gentle application of right foot. Don't lift on the corners.

The 'normal' E36 rear suspension is quite amazing. It is VERY well planted up to the limit, unlike the E30/ti which is progressive in my opinion. BUT the main complaint of the heavy E36 racers is similar, once the rear does break loose, it is VERY difficult if not impossible to recover, and a spin is typically inevitable.

the ti (with the six) is very progressive, and predictable. Get a roadster sub-frame, so you have the heavier-duty parts and a LSD. The BMW LSD is simply beautiful in how well it works. I dumped the stock fluid for some Redline, and it's perfect. I could not ask for a better LSD at any price.

[ClubSport332ti]

Is the Mcoupe/Mroadster rear end a direct swap in the ti?

[J!m]

Yes, the 'M' rear sub-frame is a direct swap-in. The brake lines need attention, as the calipers are oriented differently, but other than that easy as pie.

The spare will be left home, so get a mobility kit or AAA. It won't fit with the finned cover.

[JPropane]

It will fit, as long as it's deflated!

[1996 328ti]

Originally Posted by JPropane

It will fit, as long as it's deflated!

I keep an electric air compressor in the trunk to inflate my spare. Even with it deflated it still is very close to the cooling cover.

[JPropane]

I do the same. Mine is not very close. It touches!

[KIRASIR]

Same here. Never had a problem with it during any of the auto-xes.

SL

Originally Posted by JPropane

I do the same. Mine is not very close. It touches!