323i (82) Suspension set up

[Dod]

I've a late spec 2 tone 323i thats needing suspension. I really want to keep t as close to OEM as possible, so I need details on the set up the car would have had as I dont have the origional set up that came on the car from the factory.

Any help?

[Dod]

Anyone able to help?

[Jeroen]

Well if you order springs and dampers from the dealer you're as close to the original setup as can be of course.

But then your handling is up to 70's standards which is not considered (or feeling) too safe anymore. I would like to suggest an improvement in using oem Motorsport springs (only lowering abt 15mm so definitely changing original looks) combined with decent dampers like from Sachs. If you're into some spirited driving every now and then I suggest to move to Boge (also oem) or the more durable Bilstein dampers. Combined with Bilstein dampers the Motorsport springs may very well be comes close to the original ride height.

[Jason_323i]

Also repalce all of the ruber in the suspension, and possibly upgrade to poly bushes also.

Use 15' rims with decent ruber.

W&N do a nice set of progressive springs

[Dod]

I like the Motorsport springs and Bilstiens but which Bilstiens? I rang Bilstien Ireland and I'll be honest, the lad I spoke to was an idiot and totally uninterested in helping in anyway shape or form.

[Jeroen]

More info in the same topic as you already responded in. If you're planning on driving on the original 13" balloon tyres I wouldn't go any further than B4 as the total handling won't be spectacular anyway (my view). Good plan to go to B6's if you're planning on driving on 15".

[Dod]

Thanks. I want to leave this car as close to origional as possible so it'll have the Balloon tyres but the second one will be a bit more for "Fun".

[AndyBaur]

I've just ordered a Spax PSX kit from Larkspeed for £382 delivered. I don't know the spec of my springs (lowered but don't know by how much) so I'm replacing the whole shooting match including 40mm lower springs. The shocks are gas adjustable so I can set them soft for comfort or hard for whatever.

The car is currently on oem 13" turbines although 15" are a possibility in the future. Hopefully it will be a good compromise between oem looks & a usable chassis.