[sjb993]

Does anyone know why the 4 Series cars have strut braces fitted as standard, whereas my 3 Series (M340i Xdrive) does not? I do have the adaptive suspension hardware, could that be the reason?

TIA

[seanblee]

Cost, and the target market of the car. I've ordered the parts to retrofit to my M340i...

[sjb993]

Originally Posted by seanblee

Cost, and the target market of the car. I've ordered the parts to retrofit to my M340i...

I got the answer from someone on the General Forum. Out of interest, how much do the parts cost - I assume you've ordered the side braces, the crossmember and all the bolts?

Here is a link to a press release - paragraph 4 deals with the extra bracing.

https://g20.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh...50&postcount=1

[seanblee]

Originally Posted by sjb993

I got the answer from someone on the General Forum. Out of interest, how much do the parts cost - I assume you've ordered the side braces, the crossmember and all the bolts?

Yes, I've ordered the parts from lllparts.co.uk - I've bought the rear upper connection, the two struts, the four M10 bolts to secure the struts and the four M10 E-Torx stretch bolts that secure the upper connection - all the other fixings appear to be standard bolts so should be reusable. Total of £194 including shipping.

[seanblee]

Oh, and part numbers if you need them - I've ordered 1x 51648491817, 2x 51617456115, 4x 51716966566 and 4x 07147270121.

[sjb993]

Thanks.

In my previous reply the links didn't work. I have now fixed that I think.

[sjb993]

I guess you know you'll also need a tap to cut the thread in the lug in the top of the strut tower?

[seanblee]

Yep, I think it's M10x1.5, but I'll double check once I have the bolts in hand.

[seanblee]

Fitted today - it is indeed M10x1.5 to tap the holes in the suspension turrets, and the holes go all the way through. Took about an hour all told. I also sprayed that cheap looking metal plate satin black so it blends in a bit better...

[sjb993]

What difference have you noticed in the handling?

[seanblee]

Originally Posted by sjb993

What difference have you noticed in the handling?

Too early to say unfortunately - I only fitted them this afternoon and haven't had a chance to drive the car yet. I don't think it's going to make a lot of difference, I just like tinkering!