Z3M shocks and bushes on a Z3 3.0

[Choc]

Was wondering if the shocks and bushes will bolt straight on? Is this a good plan?
If only a few bushes will fit.... Which ones will and which ones won't?
Would they work well with 30mm lowering springs?
Was thinking of trying to tighten up the car without splashing out on expensive shocks and poly bushes.

[Choc]

Please help guys... Does anyone know?

[BladeRunner919]

Not really sure what the question is, to be honest. Are you referring to a specific product or is this a general suspension query?

[swamper]

the front shocks are different on an M to a 3.0 (drop links)

[Choc]

Will stock OEM shocks and bushes for a Z3M fit a 3.0 Z3?


I gather the Standard M shocks and bushes perform better than the standard Z ones?

[Choc]

If the OEM front ones won't fit will the back ones? Is it good to mix and match? I'm trying to find a good setup for my car. I was recommended Bilstein B8. But they don't to them front and back for the Z3, just the Z3M.

[Robert T]

It is a fairly common upgrade to fit ///M wishbone bushes to a standard zed - something I have considered on mine - the other alternative is poly bushes, but a number of people on here seem to think they are too hard (and others swear by them). Don't know about fitting ///M suspension - I would think the front would fit okay, but the rear might not as the rear axle on the ///Ms is a different width.

Cheers R.

[Choc]

Any thoughts on the PI shocks they sell on ebay? Anyone had any experience of them? Seem quite reasonable at £200 for fronts and rears.

[c_w]

Yes, it will all fit.

The rear will be fine (both dampers and springs).

The front will also all fit but you MUST use a Z3M spring or aftermarket spring for Z3M as the diameter is smaller. The reason for this is the Z3M top mounts have a lot of caster meaning the top of the strut is pulled back (a standard full width Z3 strut catches the turret slightly depending on tolerance). You may find fitting a Z3M front strut and Z3M standard spring it will sit high as the 3.2 engine is heavier than the 3.0 (iron vs alloy block).

If you're looking at lowering springs and uprated dampers it makes sense just to get them for the 3.0.

I'd recommend the Z3M wishbone bushes, not badly priced from a BMW dealer. I personally avoid poly bushes at all costs.

[Choc]

Thanks for the info guys.
Will it make a big difference going for unrated shocks over OEM?
If so what updated can you recommend? Koni? PI?

Or is it better going down the Z3M shocks/springs route?

Sorry for all the questions.