Suspension additional parts?

[Sneezy]

Looks like the Lowtec GB is finally full. I'm going 45/20 and looking forward to it.

My question is while I am replacing the struts/springs, what else do you guys recommend I change while she is apart? I seem to remember a recommendation for strut mounts in the front, or something. I assume these are the top bit that the strut bolts to and I should be able to look them up on Real OEM. Anything else?

Once she's dropped I'll get you guys some pictures. She isn't much compared to some of the beauties I've seen here, but she's mine :buttrock

Oh, and try to forgive the E36M3 fetish of mine, we are all weak in some way. ;)

[paanta]

My front strut mounts were fine when I swapped suspensions. I'd buy new ones to have on hand for the swap, but make sure you can return them if it turns out your existing ones look fine.

The rear mounts are a much weaker design, though, so I'd definitely plan to do those.

If your existing control arm bushings are old, I'd do 'em while stuff is apart. The stiffer suspension will bring out any weaknesses in those, and you'll be back in there a week from now, doing almost the same job.

[Sneezy]

Thanks for the reply.

I'm definitely planning on upper and lower control arms. My tech tells me the tie rod ends look worn too, so I'll buy those. I should have mentioned that, mea culpa.

What I'm more looking for is less talked about items especially having to do with the lowering of the car. I've never lowered one before, so I'm not sure what to expect. I'll also mention that I am under the impression from reading and searching that a 45/20 drop will not require camber kits.

Sorry for what I'm sure is a redundant question guys.

I'm also planning to put some new rotors on the old girl and I'll be doing that labor myself (just for the fun of it). Any tips on painting the calipers you want to share would be welcome. The wheels on the car show a lot of brake parts which is cool, but I wouldn't mind dressing them up a bit. Not really a performance thing, this car is my daily and strictly and aesthetic endeavor.

Hmmm. Front mount is number 1 (http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=HD53&mospid=47404&btnr=31_0128&hg=31&fg=10), right? NLA?

And for the rear, I need number 4 (http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=HD53&mospid=47404&btnr=33_0534&hg=33&fg=45)?