Contents Section: Suspension Front All sections

Suspension Systems - Overview: Overview BMW Z3 E36 рестайлинг

Suspension Front 1 illustration ~237 words

Identification Of Suspension

When performing an alignment, the suspension variant must be identified. This insures that the correct alignment specifications are used and the ride height is correct. There are numerous suspension variants, there is the standard "series" production suspension, the "low slung" sports suspension, "M Sport Package" and the "Poor Road Surface" package. The latter term is for Eastern Europe, this is not used in the US.

There are various methods for determining the suspension variant used. The following is a summary of some common models

Scheme 63

Scheme 63: Identification Of Suspension
  1. E38 - The "Sports" suspension variant is identified by paint markings on the front springs or by a front sway bar diameter of greater than 21.5 mm.
  2. E65/E66 - There is no additional identification needed to determine suspension variant (at this time).
  3. E39 - There is a symbol (or code) located on the front strut assembly. There is a chart in repair instructions to match to the symbol found.
  4. E36 - There is an auxiliary spring located on the front strut assembly. There is a measurement that needs to be made to determine suspension variant.
  5. E46 - There is a symbol (or code) located on the front strut assembly. There is a chart in repair instructions to match to the symbol found. The following page shows the E39 suspension identification chart. Note the markings on the front strut housing below.
Identifying SymbolVersionModel
WithoutVolume productionSedan
Solid CircleLow slung sports Suspension4 and 6 cylinder Sedan
Solid TriangleLow slung sports Suspension8 cylinder sedan
Solid SquarePoor road surface (Eastern Europe)Sedan
M5Volume productionM5 Sedan
M5M sports package8 cylinder Sedan
E39BAS.SPM sports package4 and 6 cylinder Sedan
CircleVolume productionTouring
TriangleLow slung sports SuspensionTouring
SquarePoor road surface (Eastern Europe)Touring

VERSION MODEL CHART