08-01-2020, 10:52 PM | #1 |
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Stiffer Steering
Hey all, did some searching but couldn't find a straight answer on this:
I'm coming from a 2013 328 coupe (before they added adaptive suspension and the highly-electric steering) and I LOVE the weightiness to the steering at all speeds. I test drove an M230i, looking for the right M240i, but I just can't get over losing that weighty, firm steering, particularly at slower speeds, that I have on my 328 -- the M240 (and most newer BMWs) is just too jumpy and loose at low speeds and I've read similar complaints at highway speed too. So, are there any mods that can be done to make steering feel like it used to on pre-2012 3 series' etc.? Particularly for the xDrive versions. I'm loving the M240 in every other way, but this steering is really holding me back from pulling the trigger. I've read a bit about LCA replacements, but that seems only possible for the non-xDrives. Thanks! Last edited by Rockfresh15; 08-02-2020 at 12:33 AM.. |
08-02-2020, 09:03 AM | #2 |
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I put these on my 235i RWD and made big difference. Tighter steering and more secure in corners. Very little NVH. This is AWD version, and "street" and "race" are the same now, both black/90 firm version (emailed with powerflex)
https://www.powerflexusa.com/shop/pr...-bushings-2461 Had a real solid BMW shop do mine, these are not pop out/in and go. He machined out, looking at probably 2 hours labor, arms need pulled. Mine was almost $400 total, but worth it. Also there is an adjustable version, but talked to a few folks, and for my use, fixed was better call. |
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08-02-2020, 01:13 PM | #3 |
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Ah, this is the only mod you've done for the steering feel?
Is it noticeable at lower speeds too where it won't feel like if I sneeze I'll end up changing lanes? On a scale of 1 - 328, how would you compare the feel? |
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08-02-2020, 01:48 PM | #4 | |
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Its a 30% improvement if I had to put a number on it, I can tell you I couldn't go back to stock for sure. |
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08-02-2020, 05:37 PM | #6 |
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I've ordered new wheels and adding 235/40 PS4's. That should help a bit too. Someone else can chime in on lower arms, I do know that can be tricky with camber and pushingwheels forward (stock probably ok)
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08-02-2020, 06:05 PM | #7 |
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I'd also add, this was enough change for my lite track days. My mechanic (who has helped at BimmerWorld, with their race car..I mention only to supply his background) said changing those front upper arm bushings from stock, was cheapest/best way to tighten up steering and confidence.
There are other bushings options, many like the Powerflex, and so far happy with. Do some bushings, and see if enough for you, then take next step as necc. For now, I won't be, unless I start hitting track more often. |
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08-02-2020, 08:53 PM | #9 |
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Does this fit for xDrives? I know another set of LCAs I saw referenced do not.
And that would be these, right?: https://www.splparts.com/products/fr...w-f2x-f3x.html But which thrust arms? Any improvements at all would be very welcome. So if these all fit then this with the powerflex bushings sound like a pretty solid start. |
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08-03-2020, 08:19 AM | #10 |
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if you are doing "spirited" street driving, the bushings may be enough. Lower arms installed are $$. There are other threads on here for, one about bushings/arms below. Talks about LCA/TS arms, neg. camber with both, why not to do adjustable bushings (maybe) with arms etc.
https://www.2addicts.com/forums/show....php?t=1724690 Last edited by 4Hockey4; 08-03-2020 at 08:27 AM.. |
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08-08-2020, 09:55 PM | #11 | |
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Drives: F80 M3
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Location: Santa Barbara, AP, Brembo, GIAC, Koni, Ohlins, Performance Friction, www.hpautosport.com
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08-08-2020, 09:59 PM | #12 | |
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08-09-2020, 07:58 PM | #13 | |
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To increase the steering effort, an increase in caster is all is needed using a product such as this: https://www.hpashop.com/Adjustable-F...PL-CRB-F3X.htm |
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