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      08-09-2011, 03:26 AM   #1
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AST 4200 coilovers exclusively first on the 1M

This install was performed on our project 1M.

A little background on AST...

The 4200 Series shocks use AST’s Twin Piston Dual Adjust (TPDA) technology. Similar non adjustable versions have been found in the highest forms of racing. TPDA builds on this technology to allow for 2 adjustment knobs to be mounted on the shock body (no tools required). Quick rebound and compression changes can be made in the pits in seconds. 4200s are fully customizable and rebuildable.

Benefits include:

*Monotube design - gives the biggest piston sizes available
*Floating piston design with high pressure nitrogen means no cavitation around the piston
*Compression and Rebound adjuster knobs permanently mounted on the dampers – no fumbling for knobs
*Fully threaded strut bodies allow maximum tire width without fender rolling or larger spacers
*Rebuildable by AST-USA – get the valving you want, when you want it.
Pricing starts at $2500 for struts and shocks

AST-USA offers full rebuilding and revalving services for AST shocks at competitive prices. This includes quick turn around when you need it the most.

» Rebound and Compression Adjustable, without reservoirs ("Internal Doubles")
» 22mm diameter shaft struts, non-inverted
» Aluminum threaded cylinder shocks, non-inverted
» Spherical lower "eye" shock mounts
» Optional spherical upper shock mount assemblies
» Synthetic hydraulic fluid
» Designed for racing classes that require any adjustment be internal ("no reservoirs")

For those counting the pounds, I have also included photos of what the oem strut/spring, rear damper and rear spring weighs compare to the AST 4200. BMW made everything out of alum. and are very light weight. AST is able to step up the to the plate and pack more performance in a even lighter package.

A few additional features that may be in all future 4200's for 1M, M3 and regular 1 and 3 series:

Exclusive adjustable perch on front struts for height adjustment without disturbing the spring perch and possibly unloading the springs.

Adjustable anti roll bar mount eliminates the need for adjustable end links and help improve anti roll bar geometry.
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Last edited by HP Autosport; 09-03-2011 at 02:04 AM..
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      08-10-2011, 03:47 PM   #2
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NIce ... I like the adjustable end link tab..

how many millions ???
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      08-10-2011, 03:50 PM   #3
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yum!
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      08-11-2011, 07:56 AM   #4
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Looks incredible!! I can't wait to hear some driving impressions.

Could you share more information regarding the following:
- Spring Rates
- New method of Height Adjustability in the front (is this feature already available)
- Rebuild costs and typical down time
- How often does one need a rebuild for average street/track use

Sorry for all the questions. I am very intrigued about the AST coilovers for all my current vehicles. All the best!
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      08-11-2011, 07:59 AM   #5
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How far do you have to rotate the knobs to cover the full range of soft/hard adjustment and are there detents or is it infinently adjustable within the range?
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      08-11-2011, 08:06 AM   #6
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Looks great.

I've been running AST 4200s on my '99 M Coupe and couldn't be more pleased with them.

Neil
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      08-16-2011, 10:34 PM   #7
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Motion View Post
I think the AST's are 12 clicks from soft to hard.
Yes, you are right.

AST can also be custom built to have less or more clicks to suit the buyer/user.

Last edited by HP Autosport; 08-17-2011 at 10:27 AM..
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      08-17-2011, 06:26 AM   #8
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I had a set on my last E36 ///M3 build, great stuff.
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      09-03-2011, 02:03 AM   #9
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AST 4200 installed and ride height set

Here is the the project 1M with the AST4200 installed, ride height set, vehicle corner balanced and aligned.
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      09-03-2011, 06:32 AM   #10
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Quote:
Originally Posted by HP Autowerks View Post
Here is the the project 1M with the AST4200 installed, ride height set, vehicle corner balanced and aligned.
The car looks great with this set up (and I'm sure it handles just as well). How much adjustability in the alignment is there with the 1M? I've only had my car for a week, but I do plan to get the alignment at least checked in the near future to see where it is.
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      09-03-2011, 12:02 PM   #11
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Texas F1 View Post
The car looks great with this set up (and I'm sure it handles just as well). How much adjustability in the alignment is there with the 1M? I've only had my car for a week, but I do plan to get the alignment at least checked in the near future to see where it is.
Just like your typical E8x and E9x chassis if you don't have camber plates.
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      09-06-2011, 10:53 AM   #12
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One of the greatest feature on this particular AST 4200 is the ability to adjust the front ride height with a built-in adjustable perch without disturbing the springs, which may affect the amount of compression and droop travel.

This feature also emliminate the possibility of unloading the springs in attempt to lower your car to a desired ride height.
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      09-06-2011, 10:55 AM   #13
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Quote:
Originally Posted by HP Autowerks View Post
One of the greatest feature on this particular AST 4200 is the ability to adjust the front ride height with a built-in adjustable perch without disturbing the springs, which may affect the amount of compression and droop travel.

This feature also emliminate the possibility of unloading the springs in attempt to lower your car to a desired ride height.
I definitely agree! How exactly is this done on the ASTs? Do you unlock a locking nut and simply turn the shock?
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      10-20-2011, 11:32 PM   #14
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Quote:
Originally Posted by flipm3 View Post
I definitely agree! How exactly is this done on the ASTs? Do you unlock a locking nut and simply turn the shock?
Unlock the locking collar and loosen the pinch bolt that holds the strut body in the wheel carrier, then the strut is free to move up and down. Simple!
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      10-22-2011, 11:21 AM   #15
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what were the spring rates that you are running?
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      10-23-2011, 10:36 AM   #16
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Anyone have a set yet?
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      10-23-2011, 12:12 PM   #17
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Quote:
Originally Posted by LateralG'z View Post
Anyone have a set yet?
A handful has been sold, but not everyone post their install and photos on the forums.

Here is one on another 1M:

http://www.1addicts.com/forums/showt...light=ast+4200

On M3:

http://www.m3post.com/forums/showthr...light=ast+4200
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      10-23-2011, 03:25 PM   #18
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Quote:
Originally Posted by HP Autowerks View Post
A handful has been sold, but not everyone post their install and photos on the forums.

Here is one on another 1M:

http://www.1addicts.com/forums/showt...light=ast+4200

On M3:

http://www.m3post.com/forums/showthr...light=ast+4200
Thanks for your help. I will hopefully have my 1M in three weeks I am starting to plan my suspension and wheels and exhaust etc... That is a bada$$ 1M
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      02-15-2012, 01:41 PM   #19
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Quote:
Originally Posted by LateralG'z View Post
Thanks for your help. I will hopefully have my 1M in three weeks I am starting to plan my suspension and wheels and exhaust etc... That is a bada$$ 1M
Let us know if you have questions on AST's.
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      03-22-2012, 12:15 AM   #20
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AST 4200s are all gone for the 1M and M3. Arrival of the new 4250s should be about 8 weeks from now.

HP will be getting one of the very first sets for testing!

***New 415o strut pictured***
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