Subframe bushing - United Bimmer Community

**eljer** · 01-17-2007, 05:38 PM

Hey gang, I'm new to this forum and the proud new owner of a 1989 325i. The condition is really nice, however suspension is going to be priority one. The mechanical inspection revealed that the rear subframe bushing needs to be replaced. I'm wondering if anyone has done this procedure on their e30. I will also be replacing the stock suspension with bilsteins. I'm also wondering if there is a difference between the HD and Sport as far as performance. I don't plan on lowering the vehicle so will the HD be sufficient?

Well i've been reading the forums for a couple of months now and all the information has been great. Keep up the good work!

**94bmw325i** · 01-17-2007, 07:02 PM

I believe the HD's are very similar to OEM, and the sports provide slightly better handling over stock. Would you also want slightly stiffer springs?

nick_318is · 01-17-2007, 07:39 PM

E30s beg to be lowered. Welcome to the forum, no I haven't replaced a subframe bushing so I can't be of any help.

**mzbmw325i** · 01-17-2007, 07:55 PM

so can a e30 be lowered just by changing the shocks, what kind?

i have the bilstein, but i think they are the same as the original ones, mean size and height wise.

nick_318is · 01-17-2007, 07:58 PM

You would need Springs too. The springs are what lowers it.

**fporro** · 01-17-2007, 11:28 PM

HD and Sports have same valving rates,
difference between them is ride height compatability

I got away with HD fronts and Sports on back when installed M3 springs onto my 87 325iC
can't complain, great for everyday driving., she's on 225/50/15 and it's a bit heavier than coupe and sedans. got springs from www.s14.net for $ 75 shipped.

HD for oem height or slight drop as with M3 springs
Sports for after market springs like Eibach, H&R, IE, etc.

most ppl prefer H&R + sports, good lowering stance, a compromise between street and track duty.

IE's Stage 3 (made by Eibach) are stiffer yet, and, recommended for track use... found here http://www.bmw2002.com/

Eibach Pro Kit lower ride height but offer almost OEM feel, great for smooth country roads while not sacrificing ride plushness.

As far as replacing SF bushings, do a google search, there's tons of write ups about it.
most guys torch them out and then Sawall whats left., not my coup of tea, but that's how most ppl do them.

**devinwwu** · 01-18-2007, 02:04 PM

if you are going to do it yourself be prepared to spend some time at it and you definitely want to have 2 people.

You will most likely end up having to burn out the old bushing if its not corroded. on the stock bushings they use a metal sleeve that presses into the subframe. The metal will need to be bent or cut out. A shop will charge you crazy cash to do it too from my estimates. If nothing else it is worth buying the Ireland Engineering Urethane ones because you really don't have to have a press to put them in. the slide in and work much better than stock. If you have any more questions about the install let me know as i've done the entire suspension overhaul on my old e30

**eljer** · 01-18-2007, 07:37 PM

Nice, thanks guys I'll let you know how it goes. Also going to be changing the timing belt as the last time it was changed was 2002 at 140,*** kms, it is now at 185,*** kms. Also looking at some excess oil on the passenger side of the engine, doesn't look like it's coming from the valve cover gasket or the oil filter. Could it be coming from the studs holding the exhaust manifold on? I've heard that they go through the block and may leak at times. Anybody have any thoughts or expertise on this?