Ground Control Coilovers....

[mattmartindrift]

I bought them!!!!!


after much deliberation and going back and forth between Konis + springs or Bilstein PSS......I broke down and bought what I really wanted - Ground Control's street/occasional track setup.

I'll post official reviews when I get them in.


Reasons I chose them over other options:

- camber plates included
- best ride reviews
- designed to fit large(r) wheels
- fantastic state-side support for performance Koni Dampers
- adjustable dampers that actually do what you'd expect them to
- spring rates tailored for the ride I wanted
- GC has been around for a while and is a great smallish company competing with the brutes in the suspension world.
- linear spring rates

[525iT_Feen]

Your going to be very happy. MUCH happier then you would have been with pss9s IMO. Enjoy them and post pics.

[98M3_4]

Congrats on the purchase. Pics please after they're installed

[mattmartindrift]

Your going to be very happy. MUCH happier then you would have been with pss9s IMO. Enjoy them and post pics.



Yeah, I wasn't seeing how the Pss9s cost $500+ more yet they come WITHOUT camber plates. Not to mention bilstein is such a brute of a company that it's really hard to get [good] support for a part that's so highly distributed.

[525iT_Feen]

Yeah, I wasn't seeing how the Pss9s cost $500+ more yet they come WITHOUT camber plates. Not to mention bilstein is such a brute of a company that it's really hard to get [good] support for a part that's so highly distributed.

Take it from a past pss9 owner - you made the right choice. I know a few people here swear by the pss9s but I've owned cars on over 5 different sets of coilovers, soon to be 6 when I get these v3s put on my e38 and the Pss9s were the worst riding of the bunch. The car handled on rails but that was it. There was no absorbance over bumps and it was crackling overall.

Not recommended for daily driving by me. I hope you enjoy these. I've always dreamt of a set of GCs. Maybe one day when I build an e34.

[bmw chris]

Was just looking at their website, those things are hella sexy! And you have to love the little guy.

[WhatsBFc]

in for reviews and pics :D

[nine9six]

I had ground controls in the past and I am confident that you made the right choice! What spring rates did you go with?

[russap5]

I got GC coilovers on my M5 a few weeks ago. So much better. You will love them!

[mattmartindrift]

I had ground controls in the past and I am confident that you made the right choice! What spring rates did you go with?


Whatever their softer [of the two] option was. I believe it's 315/330.

It has to pass the lady-of-the-house test and the grandparents test (I take them to dinner weekly).


My only gripe is the 2-week lead time!!!!!!!

[525iT_Feen]

Whatever their softer [of the two] option was. I believe it's 315/330.

It has to pass the lady-of-the-house test and the grandparents test (I take them to dinner weekly).


My only gripe is the 2-week lead time!!!!!!!

:rofl that reminds me of the couple times I took my grandmother out when visiting on pss9s. She explained to me why my entire suspension was broken and that she would pay to fix it. Its always fun to hear from an 89 year old.

[Stankia]

Do they make a set for 528i's? I can't seem to find a set on their website.

[Jason5driver]

So envious!
Can't wait to hear/see the results!

[CBi]

Welcome to the club!

Before you install the rears, take a couple of minutes and measure the springs.

I discovered a major flaw in my setup (I hope they fixed this). The rear springs would coil bind before the shock would bottom out.

If I remember correctly (I'd have to dig up my notes) I had to switch to a 12" rear spring and reconfigure the bump stop setup to get everything to work properly.

Eibach has technical data on all the springs listed on their website.

[mattmartindrift]

Welcome to the club!

Before you install the rears, take a couple of minutes and measure the springs.

I discovered a major flaw in my setup (I hope they fixed this). The rear springs would coil bind before the shock would bottom out.

If I remember correctly (I'd have to dig up my notes) I had to switch to a 12" rear spring and reconfigure the bump stop setup to get everything to work properly.

Eibach has technical data on all the springs listed on their website.



if you dig up the notes, let me know. they're still "building" my set; so, I could call before they arrive.

[knux11]

Do they make a set for 528i's? I can't seem to find a set on their website.

+1

also, how much?

[mattmartindrift]

+1

also, how much?



give them a call, they're really helpful.


They may not list them; however, they may be able to get the valving and spring rates to what you want.

To my knowledge the 6cyl. and 8cyl. cars use basically the same strut setup with different valving/spring rates.

[knux11]

sooooooooo, you won't mention the price?

[mattmartindrift]

sooooooooo, you won't mention the price?




oh, how much did I pay....


well, I'm friends with a GC dealer; so.....I paid a little less than retail, but there isn't much of a break. right around $1800 shipped.

[knux11]

oh, how much did I pay....


well, I'm friends with a GC dealer; so.....I paid a little less than retail, but there isn't much of a break. right around $1800 shipped.

thanks!

[Orxan4ik]

way to go!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[airkhin]

good choice! always been a fan of them!! if only they made some for my touring. :/

[mattmartindrift]

still waiting...they called back 2 days later and said it could be 2.5 weeks from then.

in the mean time I ordered a set of Hankook evo V12s in 245/35/19 and 275/30/19 to go with the 19x9.5/10.5 setup that's in the mail :)

[Orxan4ik]

still waiting...they called back 2 days later and said it could be 2.5 weeks from then.

in the mean time I ordered a set of Hankook evo V12s in 245/35/19 and 275/30/19 to go with the 19x9.5/10.5 setup that's in the mail :)

where from? i need a set of 245/40/18 all around

[mattmartindrift]

www.discounttiredirect.com had the best pricing for 4 tires shipped, for me.

[mattmartindrift]

Alright, 10 days later and they're in the mail!!!!

Kudos to them, they originally told me 2-3 weeks (10+ business days).

[540iboy]

Alright, 10 days later and they're in the mail!!!!

Kudos to them, they originally told me 2-3 weeks (10+ business days).

nice, i just got some fortune autos in the mail, didnt like them though, so went with bc coilovers, ground control was my next choice :)

[mattmartindrift]

hiiiyoooooooo


http://www.ziptied.com/Coppermine/albums/userpics/10932/PIC_0053~0.jpg


getting painted oem-like silver today.

[Jason5driver]

hiiiyoooooooo


http://www.ziptied.com/Coppermine/albums/userpics/10932/PIC_0053~0.jpg


getting painted oem-like silver today.


Wow!
Are these replicas?
I love this style of wheel!

Thanks!
Jason

[mattmartindrift]

they are :(

I just can't justify $1000+ per wheel, especially after my old nissan had a full set of forgelines for $1100 shipped - fwiw these were about the same shipped.

[cdb3113]

Just saw this thread. Can't wait to see everything installed! Nice choices!

[nine9six]

hiiiyoooooooo


http://www.ziptied.com/Coppermine/albums/userpics/10932/PIC_0053~0.jpg


getting painted oem-like silver today.

Nice wheels! :buttrock

They didn't come in silver?

[mattmartindrift]

Nice wheels! :buttrock

They didn't come in silver?



they did have a silver powdercoat option, for an additional $200 + longer wait times. I'm not 100% sure of silver, yet; but, I like subtle. So, I figured i'll give it a try first and see how I feel after the summer.

[nine9six]

they did have a silver powdercoat option, for an additional $200 + longer wait times. I'm not 100% sure of silver, yet; but, I like subtle. So, I figured i'll give it a try first and see how I feel after the summer.

Is your car silver? I think black wheels would look great on a silver car. Just slap those wheels on and report back with pictures asap.

[mattmartindrift]

car is "aspen" silver...a.k.a. lavender.

Also, I'd like to keep as much attention (stay OEM looking) away as possible. I'm getting to old to have kids in parking lots waiting for me to return to my car so they can try and chat me up about how they want to put a turbo on the dodge daytona they found in someone's yard for $300.

Jeeze...that turned into a rant....


EDIT: also waiting for 4mm spacers for the front and 12.5mm spacers for the rear.

ground controls will be here friday, I'm not sure the fronts would clear with the OEM struts.

[nine9six]

I think you should be cleared with the OEM struts since the big portion (the bottom of the springs) sit on top of the tires. Or maybe I am thinking of a different car.

Black wheels would sure bring attention but I still think it will look good.

[mattmartindrift]

reading up, M5 guys need a 3mm spacer up to run 9.5" rear wheels up front in order to clear the strut and not damage the scrub radius.

update:

This is the 245/35 on the 9.5 front.

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_wheels_001.jpg

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_wheels_002.jpg

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_wheels_003.jpg

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_wheels_004.jpg

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_wheels_005.jpg

[Jason5driver]

WOW!
That looks soooo good!
Are those real Volk Racing wheels?
Cool job on the painting!
Did you add a clear coat?

I heard from another super satified customer about the Hankook V12 Evo's!
The V12's were compared to the Ps2's.
Very similar....!

I can't wait to see the final product!

Thanks!
Jason

[Orxan4ik]

those wheels gon look dope :buttrock:buttrock

orderin me those tires on monday, cant wait (:

[mattmartindrift]

WOW!
That looks soooo good!
Are those real Volk Racing wheels?
Cool job on the painting!
Did you add a clear coat?

I heard from another super satified customer about the Hankook V12 Evo's!
The V12's were compared to the Ps2's.
Very similar....!

I can't wait to see the final product!

Thanks!
Jason



I replied above, they are Volk replicas - I can't justify $1k/wheel for something i'm only going to lightly track 1-2 times per year. Also, for what I paid for this entire set of wheels, shipped and bored to 74.1mm, I could have bought one Volk TE37.... The fit and finish is surprisingly good - weight is heavier, as is to be expected.

But, it's definitely a high-quality "replica" in terms of machining and finish which can often be indicative of the material and attention to detail.

Only one wheel painted so far, I'm going to try and knock out the other three tomorrow after work - now that I have the hang of it. It is clear coated, the basic process:

- Mount tire (so I don't scratch the finished product)
- Burgandy Scotch-brite pads to prep the surface
- Blow off the surface dust then wipe clean with acetone on a clean rag
- Mask tire and then attempt to spray, back to back, 5-8 light coats, followed by one even "medium" coat
- Clear coat is basically the exact process as paint.

The paint i'm using says to try and spray each layer within 10minutes of the previous one and if you wait more than one hour, you should allow them to fully cure - 7 days.



I am very excited about the tires, they look very quality...as much as a tire can look the part. But, I also read the C&D review and was very surprised and obviously swayed enough to purchase them. Not to mention how extremely excited I am to try them out after riding around on 225/55/17 Hankook W409 (dedicated snow tire) for the last 3-4 months.

[240zman]

Great wheel choice, was looking to maybe pick up a set of these myself. Can't wait to see them installed!

[nine9six]

reading up, M5 guys need a 3mm spacer up to run 9.5" rear wheels up front in order to clear the strut and not damage the scrub radius.

update:

This is the 245/35 on the 9.5 front.

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_wheels_001.jpg

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_wheels_002.jpg

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_wheels_003.jpg

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_wheels_004.jpg

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_wheels_005.jpg

Wow! Those are WIDE for fronts! No wonder you needed spacers. They look absolutely sick! :buttrock

[Jackcat559]

I'm very curious about the coil overs. I want to switch up from the H&R sport springs, but am a little lost in who to go with.

[mikep415]

I want those wheels.....and coils!!!! Lol

[tacoma330ci]

Did the GC's for the same reasons you did and they pass the wife, in-laws test with no problem. they didn't even notice.

If you haven't yet, do the M5 rear sway at the same time... nice complement, that and the 9.5 fronts and you'll have a nice neutral setup that easy to push into a drift in the corners...

like the wheels as well, where'd you get them?

[mattmartindrift]

Did the GC's for the same reasons you did and they pass the wife, in-laws test with no problem. they didn't even notice.

If you haven't yet, do the M5 rear sway at the same time... nice complement, that and the 9.5 fronts and you'll have a nice neutral setup that easy to push into a drift in the corners...

like the wheels as well, where'd you get them?


M5 sway is sitting in a box awaiting this weekend's fun! :D

the wheels were from http://varrstoen.com/ (http://varrstoen.com/shoponline.html)


I'm very curious about the coil overs. I want to switch up from the H&R sport springs, but am a little lost in who to go with.


when it's on, i'd be glad to give you a ride.

[Jackcat559]

cool, thanks!

[mattmartindrift]

Alright, finished the other three wheels. Yesterday's wheel came out like garbage - very rough.

I honestly think it's because I took my time and laid on very very light coats. This paint seems to prefer being laid on thick via the hand of someone who hasn't ever painted anything.

So, I'm going to fix the one wheel and I should be good, today's work:



I 1/2 mounted the tires to help with the masking and so I didn't damage the spray-can finish during the mounting process. Wheels after scuffing, just about to be masked:

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_wheels_006.jpg

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_wheels_007.jpg


Out drying in our lovely weather, today.


http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_wheels_008.jpg

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_wheels_009.jpg



Close ups of the finish - it's the best paint work I've ever done; which, isn't saying much.

NOTE: any yellowing or weirdness was me incorrectly adjusting the color temperature on my camera.

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_wheels_010.jpg

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_wheels_011.jpg

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_wheels_012.jpg


Rear tire/wheel on the left. Front on the right.

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_wheels_013.jpg

[blatant]

Those look great! Can't wait to see pics with them on the car.
Good choice on the finish!

[nine9six]

I gotta pick me up a set of those wheels!

[loveless4577]

Looking forward to seeing everything installed.

[Jason5driver]

I like this finish too!
Kind of grey/ anthracite.
Me likes!

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_wheels_006.jpg

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_wheels_007.jpg




What size are these tires/ wheels?

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_wheels_013.jpg

[airkhin]

those wheels look absolutely amazing in that silver color!! amazing work!

[240zman]

what's the offset on the wheels?

[mattmartindrift]

I like this finish too!
Kind of grey/ anthracite.
Me likes!




What size are these tires/ wheels?





The finish, that is before I scuffed/prepped them for paint, was just plain-jane matte black.


Wheels:

F: 19x9.5 +20 (with 4mm spacer, +16)
R: 19x10.5 +20 (with 12.5mm spacer, +9.5)

Tires (hankook ventus V12):
F: 245/35/ZR19 93Y
R: 275/30/ZR19 96Y

[mattmartindrift]

coilovers going on sometime this week. OEM reverse rake is terrible with 19s.


My 275/30/19s are smaller than the 225/55/17 snow tires I removed. Awesome.

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_wheels_014.jpg


http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_wheels_015.jpg


http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_wheels_016.jpg


http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_wheels_017.jpg

[LuisGT]

Goddamn i love those wheels!!!!

[Jackcat559]

Just curious Are you going for an even drop, or a bit of a French rake?

[Jason5driver]

:)

[mattmartindrift]

Just curious Are you going for an even drop, or a bit of a French rake?



I think i'm going to have to rake it a little. Ideally I would prefer it to be parallel. However, that would require lowering the rear more; but, I think the rear is basically where I want it - the car has 4 passengers at least once a week.

The fenders haven't yet been rolled and the left rear tire (mostly) already rubs very slightly over larger dips in the road - without rear spacers. So, hopefully fender rolling, new dampers and slightly-stiffer-than-OEM springs will remedy that.

[240zman]

coilovers going on sometime this week. OEM reverse rake is terrible with 19s.


My 275/30/19s are smaller than the 225/55/17 snow tires I removed. Awesome.


http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_wheels_017.jpg

Do you have both front and rear spacers installed in this pic?

[JackEatsEmoKids]

Looks good. Makes me want to buy a set just to rock once in a while.

[mattmartindrift]

Do you have both front and rear spacers installed in this pic?



Fronts, yes - 5mm.

Rears, no. I bought 12.5mm; but, it's just too big. I don't know how Navith (WhatsBFc) pulled off a 20mm spacer - his fenders don't look that modified.

I had to roll my rear fenders last night just to keep that setup from rubbing.

[CBi]

The rear alignment (camber, mainly) has quite an effect on rear tire/fender clearance. The more negative camber, the greater the clearance.

[mattmartindrift]

The rear alignment (camber, mainly) has quite an effect on rear tire/fender clearance. The more negative camber, the greater the clearance.



of course. Mine look pretty cambered in; but, I haven't had my eyeball calibrated in some time.




Also of note: Coilovers are on; and, they feel FANTASTIC. I only drove home from the shop - 20mi. of Interstate, 2-3mi. of city/suburb driving.


I'll try and write a "real" review as time and experience on this setup permits. I hope to have an alignment this Friday or Saturday.

[CBi]

if you dig up the notes, let me know. they're still "building" my set; so, I could call before they arrive.

Obviously a bit late, but I found some of my notes on my GC setup:

Front spring: 420 in/lb
Rear spring: 375 in/lb

I switched to a 10" spring in the rear. It came with 8" springs, which were too short; the adjusters were all the way at the top of the shock, leaving absolutely no room for the spring as it compresses (hence the coil-bind situation I mentioned)

Handling is awesome....the ride is a little punishing on rough roads, though. Keeping your eyes peeled for potholes/abutments is a must!

:lol

[mattmartindrift]

So, the more I drive it, the more I love it.


the ride is firm, but not harsh or jarring in the slightest. a friend and engineer colleague of mine went for a ride to lunch and said that the ride reminded him of high-priced GT cars - Front-engined Ferraris, Aston Martin, etc. etc.


I am happy. more reviews to come, if necessary. Pictures hopefully on the way this evening.

[Jason5driver]

Picts! ^^^^
:)

[CMC540]

Did you ever receive the actual spring rates? Your early post indicated something like 315/330 which seems quite a bit softer than CBi's setup. Would really appreciate you posting your spring rates if you have them when you post your update on the ride / handling. Your setup looks great!


So, the more I drive it, the more I love it.


the ride is firm, but not harsh or jarring in the slightest. a friend and engineer colleague of mine went for a ride to lunch and said that the ride reminded him of high-priced GT cars - Front-engined Ferraris, Aston Martin, etc. etc.


I am happy. more reviews to come, if necessary. Pictures hopefully on the way this evening.

[mattmartindrift]

I'll go out and take a peak at lunch. I meant to write them down when I installed them; but, I was focused and time was short. I never got a build sheet with my set :/


I did take out the grandparents last night; so, that's me, my lady, and two +70 year-olds - no rubbing and none of the passengers could tell the difference. Mission accomplished?

[jnyost]

I'll go out and take a peak at lunch. I meant to write them down when I installed them; but, I was focused and time was short. I never got a build sheet with my set :/


I did take out the grandparents last night; so, that's me, my lady, and two +70 year-olds - no rubbing and none of the passengers could tell the difference. Mission accomplished?

Sounds like a winner to me!!!

[Fiziks]

If you don't need that 12.5mm spacer, I'll take it off your hands :)

[D540i]

I'll go out and take a peak at lunch. I meant to write them down when I installed them; but, I was focused and time was short. I never got a build sheet with my set :/


I did take out the grandparents last night; so, that's me, my lady, and two +70 year-olds - no rubbing and none of the passengers could tell the difference. Mission accomplished?
I'd say so! :alright

my dad (60yrs old) drove my car for a couple weeks and made the comment, "so when you put that new suspension in... did you forget to put the springs back in?" -I've got bilstien sports and H&R race for reference.

waiting for piktars and the "real" writeup :D

[mattmartindrift]

Real writeup might wait for a few weeks. I might get a few laps in at a local track day for a "full" review.


pictures ahead.


http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/E39_GC_001.jpg

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/E39_GC_002.jpg


Car on the right is my old 540 that's slowly being reassembled.
http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/E39_GC_003.jpg

I may go lower. In pictures it looks so high; but, in person it looks good - from my measurements, an M bumper will sit 2" lower than the stock bumper and I think that would add alot to the stance.


If you don't need that 12.5mm spacer, I'll take it off your hands :)


I may end up using them up front :)


Did you ever receive the actual spring rates? Your early post indicated something like 315/330 which seems quite a bit softer than CBi's setup. Would really appreciate you posting your spring rates if you have them when you post your update on the ride / handling. Your setup looks great!



Alright,

Fronts: GC180.64.75 - that's 7" spring @ 430lbs.

I can't see the rears, I'm going to have a rear wheel off tomorrow. But, I'd imagine it's stiffer than your setup, unless that was a typo.

[cdb3113]

Looks great! I think you could drop it another ~1" or so though, and still preserve ride quality you currently have. And, it would be sweet.

[CMC540]

In pictures it looks so high; but, in person it looks good -

I think it looks awesome as is. I'm not a fan of "slammed" cars and think your set looks perfect. I'm really liking the wheels as well.


Alright,

Fronts: GC180.64.75 - that's 7" spring @ 430lbs.

I can't see the rears, I'm going to have a rear wheel off tomorrow. But, I'd imagine it's stiffer than your setup, unless that was a typo.

Thanks for the info. I'm really curious about the rear spring rates as I think those have a bigger impact on ride quality than the front.

[98 528i]

Hey Matt, how much do these run?

[Jackcat559]

Looks to be about $1800 by a comparable item on their web site http://www.ground-control-store.com/products/category.php/CA=6

[mattmartindrift]

I think it looks awesome as is. I'm not a fan of "slammed" cars and think your set looks perfect. I'm really liking the wheels as well.



Thanks for the info. I'm really curious about the rear spring rates as I think those have a bigger impact on ride quality than the front.

Alright, I lowered it all around by "2 turns" which equates out to around 1/2" all around.


the spring rates out back are 275.....that seems really low. part # 1000.250.0275.




Hey Matt, how much do these run?

Jackcat covered it!

[Chigga]

Alright, I lowered it all around by "2 turns" which equates out to around 1/2" all around.


the spring rates out back are 275.....that seems really low. part # 1000.250.0275.





Jackcat covered it!

car looks great! btw, applied lots of anti seize on the collar bolts, I had to drilled mine out twice already due to seizing.

[mattmartindrift]

car looks great! btw, applied lots of anti seize on the collar bolts, I had to drilled mine out twice already due to seizing.



YIKES. thanks for the tip, I did liberally spray them with some penetrating lube; i'll make sure to anti-seize them very shortly.

Chigga, what spring rates did you get...if you remember. Also, what sort of suspension travel do you have before bump stops - you look a good bit lower than me, so how do you not rub!?



EDIT: I did lower it about another 1/2" - 3/4" today, added the 12.5mm spacers up front and moved the 5mm spacers from the front to the back; AND, did the M5 rear sway bar - MUCH happier with the front wheel fitment.

[Chigga]

YIKES. thanks for the tip, I did liberally spray them with some penetrating lube; i'll make sure to anti-seize them very shortly.

Chigga, what spring rates did you get...if you remember. Also, what sort of suspension travel do you have before bump stops - you look a good bit lower than me, so how do you not rub!?



EDIT: I did lower it about another 1/2" - 3/4" today, added the 12.5mm spacers up front and moved the 5mm spacers from the front to the back; AND, did the M5 rear sway bar - MUCH happier with the front wheel fitment.
I think it has to do with the bolt material, the collars are alloy and the bolt they supplied (I forgot the size) was standard steel, I couldn't figure out why they kept seizing after each winter, because other than that they've been great.

I later plated the bolts through local plating shop, and has been good this winter, I also bought extra collars just in case I had to cut 'em to get through the bolts.

IIRC, they asked what I wanted to do with the car, I believe it was the track/street set up, I think (I really don't remember and can't find the receipt) was 350/450.

Martin, I read the spec for the whole kit, your kit used different springs than mine, yours are the progressive springs and have different wounds than mine, mine was just the conversion kit, and IIRC from the wiser guys, the progressive ones tend to be rated "softer".

http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k65/themadchigga/mah%20carz/DSC02410.jpg

as far as bump stops, right now the car rides pretty smooth, I do get occasional bump steer when auto-x/tracking, I clear pretty much everything and never hit bump stops even on bigger potholes, I do ocassionally hit the jacking pads on giant speed bumps, but then even my wife's Camry hits it.

this was the lowest I ever drove around, it was fully slammed all around and I had may be 1" of travel, rode horrible and raised it up to current height.
http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k65/themadchigga/mah%20carz/DSC00173.jpg

and rubbing, I cheat, I run small tires :P right now I'm running 225/40/19 front and 245/35/19 rear.

[mattmartindrift]

I think it has to do with the bolt material, the collars are alloy and the bolt they supplied (I forgot the size) was standard steel, I couldn't figure out why they kept seizing after each winter, because other than that they've been great.
I later plated the bolts through local plating shop, and has been good this winter, I also bought extra collars just in case I had to cut 'em to get through the bolts.

I think mine are stainless, if not, I'll just buy stainless bolts from www.McMastercarr.com for $5.



IIRC, they asked what I wanted to do with the car, I believe it was the track/street set up, I think (I really don't remember and can't find the receipt) was 350/450.

Martin, I read the spec for the whole kit, your kit used different springs than mine, yours are the progressive springs and have different wounds than mine, mine was just the conversion kit, and IIRC from the wiser guys, the progressive ones tend to be rated "softer".


gotcha, I checked your part number (on that front spring) and it's a 7" spring @ 350lbs. It would be odd if your rear was higher, because mine is 275...which seems low. Also, I got the "street" setup as well. And, I'm pretty sure my setup uses linear springs, not progressive.



as far as bump stops, right now the car rides pretty smooth, I do get occasional bump steer when auto-x/tracking, I clear pretty much everything and never hit bump stops even on bigger potholes, I do ocassionally hit the jacking pads on giant speed bumps, but then even my wife's Camry hits it.

this was the lowest I ever drove around, it was fully slammed all around and I had may be 1" of travel, rode horrible and raised it up to current height.


Bump steer is what happens as the suspension moves and as the tie rod goes away from parallel. The effect increases as the angle of the tie rod goes further from parallel - I haven't noticed much if any of that, yet.

Bump stops are the dense foam rubber that prevent the shock from physically bottoming out and damaging the innards.


At my current height I have maybe 1-1.5" of travel before the bump stops; but, after reading I felt at ease. The new STOCK M3 and M6 only have 0.5" of travel before the bump stops - that's crazy to me.



and rubbing, I cheat, I run small tires :P right now I'm running 225/40/19 front and 245/35/19 rear.

gotcha! I'm only getting a tad bit of rubbing in the rear, maybe i'll roll some more.

[240zman]

YIKES. thanks for the tip, I did liberally spray them with some penetrating lube; i'll make sure to anti-seize them very shortly.

Chigga, what spring rates did you get...if you remember. Also, what sort of suspension travel do you have before bump stops - you look a good bit lower than me, so how do you not rub!?



EDIT: I did lower it about another 1/2" - 3/4" today, added the 12.5mm spacers up front and moved the 5mm spacers from the front to the back; AND, did the M5 rear sway bar - MUCH happier with the front wheel fitment.

I need to see more pics of your latest setup

[Jason5driver]

I need to see more pics of your latest setup

+1!

[mattmartindrift]

updated "stance"

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_lower_001.jpg

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_lower_002.jpg

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_lower_003.jpg

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_lower_004.jpg

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/e39_lower_005.jpg


EDIT:


I thought I'd add in that I weighed the front wheel+tire setup. It came in at 50.1lbs. - tirerack.com lists my front tires as weighing in at 26lbs. That leaves the wheels @ 24lbs. for a 19x9.5. That's not too shabby for the price!

[mattmartindrift]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3457/4569851672_9ce7d52e87_o.jpg


i'll just leave this here.

[Fiziks]

grass shots are cheating :P

[newton22]

Given your username, I want to see that baby sideways and sliding.

[mattmartindrift]

Given your username, I want to see that baby sideways and sliding.



in due time....need an LSD.


in the mean time, here's some video from the track where the above grass shot was taken:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tdprxGUEG1U


grass shots are cheating :P



I know, but I don't want to lower it anymore. maybe i need 18s next year.

[cdb3113]

Lookin' good, Matt! Grass shot is niiice.

[mattmartindrift]

some random track-side parking....

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/2010_05_01_0544_.jpg

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/2010_05_01_0545_.jpg

[Nsoka]

Very nice. Wheels look great

[Fiziks]

no closeups on the drivers front while parked like that? ;)

[mattmartindrift]

sky high, my friend. sky high.

[cdb3113]

lol. i can do that with people in my backseat and on 17's... :P

http://i1014.photobucket.com/albums/af264/cdb1331/540i%20pictures/11152009342.jpg

[E39Stig]

Could you possibly take a measurement of distance from bottom of the strut to beginning of the adjustment thread?
Do you have 2.25" or 2.5" ID springs?
Since GC won't release spring rates until I place an order. Do you by any chance know what are the spring rates for track set?

Thank you!

[mattmartindrift]

Could you possibly take a measurement of distance from bottom of the strut to beginning of the adjustment thread?
Do you have 2.25" or 2.5" ID springs?
Since GC won't release spring rates until I place an order. Do you by any chance know what are the spring rates for track set?

Thank you!


By browsing over @ m5board.com, it seems that the track setup uses 350-450lb. rear springs and 500ish lb fronts. Jay @ GC is pretty knowledgeable about how to setup the car for the duty it will be seeing and the tire/sway setup its running - give him a call, he'll usually talk you through anything you want/need to know.

Mine use 2.5" springs all around and 430lb up front 230lb rear. I don't know when i'll have the wheel off next to measure the strut for where the collar starts.

[Jason5driver]

Perfectly done!
Thanks!

[mattmartindrift]

Perfectly done!
Thanks!



?

[newton22]

Jason has the best responses.

Nice stance! Love you!






Just yanking your chain Jason. :D

[Jason5driver]

?

The wheels and stance look perfect.
Nicely done.

[mattmartindrift]

The wheels and stance look perfect.
Nicely done.



that's what I thought, just had to make sure.


i think i'd like to move down to 18" wheels next year.

[Jason5driver]

that's what I thought, just had to make sure.


i think i'd like to move down to 18" wheels next year.

Please explain why you want 18" wheels/tires...?

Are you going to do anything with the front bumper?

Window tint?

Thanks!
Jason

[mattmartindrift]

Please explain why you want 18" wheels/tires...?

Are you going to do anything with the front bumper?

Window tint?

Thanks!
Jason


I feel the ride is a bit rougher than I'd like; and, i'm fairly certain it's the 19" wheels + tires. Not to mention 18" tires are astronomically cheaper, and wheels/tires are lighter.

Also, I think the car sits too high; but, I only have about 2.5" of jounce (including bump stops) remaining; so, I can't lower it anymore. I'm currently @ 13.25" and 13.5" ride heights for the F&R respectively.

F&R bumpers will most likely end up M-tech.


Tint hasn't ever really been my thing. I hate driving in cars with tint, I feel like it's always night time. I like being able to see everything. Driving in cars with tint always feel restrictive, or suffocating to me...not sure why.

[Jason5driver]

I feel the ride is a bit rougher than I'd like; and, i'm fairly certain it's the 19" wheels + tires. Not to mention 18" tires are astronomically cheaper, and wheels/tires are lighter.

Also, I think the car sits too high; but, I only have about 2.5" of jounce (including bump stops) remaining; so, I can't lower it anymore. I'm currently @ 13.25" and 13.5" ride heights for the F&R respectively.

F&R bumpers will most likely end up M-tech.


Tint hasn't ever really been my thing. I hate driving in cars with tint, I feel like it's always night time. I like being able to see everything. Driving in cars with tint always feel restrictive, or suffocating to me...not sure why.

Is your measurements from the fender to the ground?
Or to the wheel edge?

I can understand about the tint.
Mine is junk, and it makes it dangerous to drive, since I can't see clearly out of my windows...

[mattmartindrift]

Is your measurements from the fender to the ground?
Or to the wheel edge?

I can understand about the tint.
Mine is junk, and it makes it dangerous to drive, since I can't see clearly out of my windows...



haha. you're funny. 19" wheels + tire means that at a 13.25" ride height, i'd be tucking at least 7" of wheel + tire if I measured from ground to fender.

It's actually a measurement from the center of the wheel to the bottom edge of the fender. This way you can talk about suspension ride height w.r.t. the chassis and eliminate unnecessary measurements like wheels and tires.

[Jason5driver]

haha. you're funny. 19" wheels + tire means that at a 13.25" ride height, i'd be tucking at least 7" of wheel + tire if I measured from ground to fender.

It's actually a measurement from the center of the wheel to the bottom edge of the fender. This way you can talk about suspension ride height w.r.t. the chassis and eliminate unnecessary measurements like wheels and tires.

Right.
I think I am at 12.5" and 12.25".
I will have to double check.

[mattmartindrift]

jesus....haha. that's low. i would literally be resting on the bump stops at static height.

[mattmartindrift]

>1 year later. everything is good!


I did get 18s instead - four 18x9.5 @ ~20lbs a pop w/ 275/35 all around.

I did do a track day, but it rained, so I can't tell you much that would be relevant.

the car has all new (well, not brand new any more) control arms front and rear.

doing rear ball joints + integral link within a month.




One issue I have with the car.....came about after driving a friend's ESS SC E39 M5 with GCs. The precision with which his car turns in is incredible.

This is not just the steering ratio, the car just goes exactly where you want while my car still wants to understeer on hard turn-in. So, i'm on a quest to figure out what issues I have.

FWIW:

I run 18x9.5" Fikse Profil 13 on all 4 corners with 275/35/18s Hankook V12s.
He runs 18x9 & 10 Fikse Profil 5s with 255/40/18 and 275/35 PS2s respectively

I run GC coils w/ 430lb fronts and 275lb rears (I think this might be a big part)
he runs GC coils w/ 430 front and 325lb rears

All my control arms have been replaced with Lemforder arms w/in the past 30k miles (still need rear lower ball joints)
He has 5x,000 mi w/ all original suspension parts, with the exception of the rear upper control arm.



sigh.....

[Jason5driver]

When the rear suspension fails, it makes a huge impact on how the car handles.
I would replace the rear ball joint, rear upper control arms, and integral links.
It will make a big difference on how the car handles.

Also, have you thought about some Eibach sway bars?

[mattmartindrift]

All control arms have been replaced. I just have the lower ball joints and integral links remaining.

Rear sway bar is an m5 unit, I might do a front bar, but I was considering leaving it stock and compensating via a spring rate increase.

We'll see what happens after the ball joints, links, all steering links/bushings/components and subsequent alignment are done....

[mattmartindrift]

sup yall?


http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/may_11-1.jpg

http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/may_11-2.jpg

[Stack24]

Great setup. I am currently running the Ground Controls on my M5 and have truly loved the setup. I am probably going to take out my rear spacers and go down a bit so I can lower the back a bit more and not rub when I hit dips at a high rate of speed.

[mattmartindrift]

Yeah, I really am loving them after 40k ish mi. I don't have the luxury in the rear of pulling a spacer. But, I am going up to a 380lb rear spring

[E30SPDFRK]

Wow, your car looks insanely better on the Fisks than it did on the Volk reps. Did you lower it more again?

[mattmartindrift]

Thanks!

I did go a tad bit lower, and added a 1/2" spacer in the front.

[Jason5driver]

Looks amazing!
There's a little rake though...
How do you like the Hankook V12's?

Thanks!
Jason

[mattmartindrift]

It's my second set.

I think they're a perfect balance for a street car. They're a little soft on aggressive turn-in but otherwise fantastic.


The rake will be remedied as soon as the stiffer rear springs go on.

[Jason5driver]

It's my second set.

I think they're a perfect balance for a street car. They're a little soft on aggressive turn-in but otherwise fantastic.


The rake will be remedied as soon as the stiffer rear springs go on.

Thanks!
I have been deciding between the V12's or the Continental DW summer tires..
I think my friend with a 2000 323ci E46 will be getting the Continental DW summer tires for sure...
I will have to see how his car rides...

[Orxan4ik]

Looks dope Martin, good job!!! So ur running 9.5 w 275 up front with 12.5mm spacer? What's the final offset? Thanks (:

[mattmartindrift]

Looks dope Martin, good job!!! So ur running 9.5 w 275 up front with 12.5mm spacer? What's the final offset? Thanks (:

thanks!

Yup 275s and 9.5s all around - they look staggered but, they're not, at least with respect to width.

up front, they're +5 or +6 after the spacer - technically 12.7mm. The rears are +12 no spacers.

[AlpinaM3]

How do the EAC coilovers compare?

[redbull713]

sup yall?


http://mattmartindrift.com/E39/may_11-2.jpg

Looks waay better with 18's. Fits the drop well. Who else thinks that 18 in. is the best size wheel for the e39?

[mattmartindrift]

How do the EAC coilovers compare?

Never driven on them, nor compared their damper dyno data. So I couldn't give you a real answer.

[mattmartindrift]

Re: post #110 (http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showpost.php?p=21999362&postcount=110):

First, I swapped in 380# rear springs. That made a giant difference, nearly eliminated the understeer on turn-in; but, there was still a little slowness on turn-in. Then, I replaced the rear lower ball joints, and had the car aligned yesterday at a local shop who does a bunch of race cars.

What a difference!!! The car is fantastic right now! My only [current] complaint is the poor (slow) steering ratio - an M5 steering box and pump will be added in the future. Other than that, this car is more than capable of getting me into some real trouble at the next track day :/

Front:

Toe:
L: 0.03º R: 0.03º Total: 0.06º

Caster:
L: 6.2º R: 6.0º


I don't remember the rear, I left the alignment sheet in my office.

[mattmartindrift]

http://tapatalk.com/mu/483bc346-4aaa-2783.jpg

[mattmartindrift]

oh hai.

18x10 SSR GT2 on 285/35 on all 4 corners.

http://img.tapatalk.com/ad8ecee4-fd44-0fa0.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/ad8ecee4-fdb8-3280.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/6c6ec599-dfc9-11f1.jpg

I have 6 of those SSR GT2s because it was a good deal, and I still have the Fikses.


Thrust arm sphericals/Monoballs coming as soon as the machine shop finishes them up.

[Justin517]

awesome.

I am now thinking about GC coils if/when I have to do dampers.

I have had many lowered cars and it has never really bothered me, but I am hesitant to ditch the OEM M-tech II suspension, even though I know I'll probably love it...

What spring rate do you have in the front? I see you went to 380 in the rear, do you have an M5 rear bar too? or just the 15mm stock sport bar?

is the car still comfortable? I know I'm probably over-reacting but I want to be sure I'm not going to ruin the ride. I really need to go for a ride in an E39 on coils.

[Jason5driver]

WOW!
Amazing!
285 Nt-05's!
Wow!
However, I bet your steering response feel is greatly depreciated having such crazy wide tires on the front...

Did you need adapters to fit the SSR wheels?

Thanks!
Jason

[mattmartindrift]

WOW!
Amazing!
285 Nt-05's!
Wow!
However, I bet your steering response feel is greatly depreciated having such crazy wide tires on the front...

Quite the opposite, car turns in like a dream. Grip is unreal. The response has a lot to do with alignment, spring rates, damper setup, and wheel/tire weights. The wheels are 18lbs. a piece, and the tires ~1.5-2lbs. heavier than a 275/35 Michelin PS2.

I expect the response to be greatly improved with monoballs up front, too. can't wait!



Did you need adapters to fit the SSR wheels?

Thanks!
Jason

Nope! Well, I did need to run 12.5mm spacers up front to clear the coilovers. But, 2 of the wheels I purchased came from an E46 M3, the other 4 came from some other BMW car; but, oddly enough, already had 74.1mm hubcentric rings in the wheel bores. So they were essentially bolt on!

The front fit is very tight. i rub ever so slightly on rolled fenders and I had to bring the front coilover collars up 1.5 turns to clear the tire.


awesome.

I am now thinking about GC coils if/when I have to do dampers.

I have had many lowered cars and it has never really bothered me, but I am hesitant to ditch the OEM M-tech II suspension, even though I know I'll probably love it...


My GCs have passed the girlfriend, and grandparents test - that's 4 people in the car.



What spring rate do you have in the front? I see you went to 380 in the rear, do you have an M5 rear bar too? or just the 15mm stock sport bar?



430 front, 380 rear w/ M5 rear sway, stock 540 front sway.



is the car still comfortable? I know I'm probably over-reacting but I want to be sure I'm not going to ruin the ride. I really need to go for a ride in an E39 on coils.

see above.

it is a little more harsh with the ride height, but I can sacrifice a little comfort for aesthetic appeal, even if it is a little less than optimal WRT handling.

[Justin517]

Thank you very much for the info! It sounds like I would go with a very similar setup, I already have the M5 rear sway. I rarely have people in my back seat but The 380's sound like they would be a bit better for when I do and not really ahve any ill effects when I do not.

I probably wouldnt go quite as low as you, probably keep close to the same as stock ride height in the rear, just level out the reverse-rake.

[Jason5driver]

Quite the opposite, car turns in like a dream. Grip is unreal. The response has a lot to do with alignment, spring rates, damper setup, and wheel/tire weights. The wheels are 18lbs. a piece, and the tires ~1.5-2lbs. heavier than a 275/35 Michelin PS2.

I expect the response to be greatly improved with monoballs up front, too. can't wait!



Nope! Well, I did need to run 12.5mm spacers up front to clear the coilovers. But, 2 of the wheels I purchased came from an E46 M3, the other 4 came from some other BMW car; but, oddly enough, already had 74.1mm hubcentric rings in the wheel bores. So they were essentially bolt on!



I don't know...
I find it very hard to believe...
My 18" wheels also weigh 18 lbs with 245's, and the steering response is good, but I can notice a difference when going to 235's...

IMO, different tires make a big difference in the steering response.
A more stable/ stout/ non-rounded sidewall tire will have superior steering response.

So, I am guessing those Nitto Nt-05's might be THE reason why you think the steering response is good...

With the mono-balls, are you talking about the camber plates?

Thanks!
Jason

[mattmartindrift]

I don't know...
I find it very hard to believe...
My 18" wheels also weigh 18 lbs with 245's, and the steering response is good, but I can notice a difference when going to 235's...

IMO, different tires make a big difference in the steering response.
A more stable/ stout/ non-rounded sidewall tire will have superior steering response.

So, I am guessing those Nitto Nt-05's might be THE reason why you think the steering response is good...

With the mono-balls, are you talking about the camber plates?

Thanks!
Jason


Well, Yes of course. The 200 treadwear NT05s vs. my previous 280 treadwear, 275/35 Hankook V12s are vastly different from eachother. But, I prefer actually turning when I turn the wheel and at ~4000lbs. More rubber is going to pull the car into a turn quicker translating into better response, at least when defined by how the car actually moves when agressively turned in.

It could also very well be that the R&P steering of the I6s just isn't suited for more grip which is why they went with the 'ol truck steering on the V8s.

You must be mistaken on wheel-and-tire weight. I don't know of any commercially-available 245/xx/18 tire that weighs under 18lbs, alone. Perhaps the wheels by themselves are 18lbs.

When you changed tire sizes, did you change wheels? add or remove spacers? change tire model? All of those can result in large differences.

When I talk about monoballs I mean the ones i'm making:

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1812441


Thank you very much for the info! It sounds like I would go with a very similar setup, I already have the M5 rear sway. I rarely have people in my back seat but The 380's sound like they would be a bit better for when I do and not really ahve any ill effects when I do not.

I probably wouldnt go quite as low as you, probably keep close to the same as stock ride height in the rear, just level out the reverse-rake.

I would go with the 325lb rear springs if you don't plan on going on track a few times a year. It's more comfortable than my setup, for sure. Yet, it's got a much more positive feel than what came originally on my GC setup - 275lb springs.

[Justin517]

I would go with the 325lb rear springs if you don't plan on going on track a few times a year. It's more comfortable than my setup, for sure. Yet, it's got a much more positive feel than what came originally on my GC setup - 275lb springs.

No plans to track really. Just the drag strip 2-5 times a year. Maybe an auto-x or 2.

Maybe a compromise of 340-350# would be good... I know too stiff in the rear isn't good for drag racing. You want a little load-transfer.

[mattmartindrift]

i've ridden in a few cars with 325lb springs, and I'd consider that the perfect comprimise. I was semi-satisfied with the 275lb setup on the rears, it was just too soft for HPDEs.

[Justin517]

i've ridden in a few cars with 325lb springs, and I'd consider that the perfect comprimise. I was semi-satisfied with the 275lb setup on the rears, it was just too soft for HPDEs.

Cool... thank you again for all your input.

[Jason5driver]

Well, Yes of course. The 200 treadwear NT05s vs. my previous 280 treadwear, 275/35 Hankook V12s are vastly different from eachother. But, I prefer actually turning when I turn the wheel and at ~4000lbs. More rubber is going to pull the car into a turn quicker translating into better response, at least when defined by how the car actually moves when aggressively turned in.

It could also very well be that the R&P steering of the I6s just isn't suited for more grip which is why they went with the 'ol truck steering on the V8s.

You must be mistaken on wheel-and-tire weight. I don't know of any commercially-available 245/xx/18 tire that weighs under 18lbs, alone. Perhaps the wheels by themselves are 18lbs.

When you changed tire sizes, did you change wheels? add or remove spacers? change tire model? All of those can result in large differences.

When I talk about monoballs I mean the ones i'm making:

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1812441



I would go with the 325lb rear springs if you don't plan on going on track a few times a year. It's more comfortable than my setup, for sure. Yet, it's got a much more positive feel than what came originally on my GC setup - 275lb springs.

Yes, I meant my wheels are ~18 lbs each.
However, these 245-40-18 Bridgestone Re-760's weigh 29 lbs each.
Pretty heavy IMO.

And, I think the R&P steering is just so good, that I can feel the difference more so...

[mattmartindrift]

And, I think the R&P steering is just so good, that I can feel the difference more so...



that's sort of what I was getting at.

[mattmartindrift]

Softer of the two monoball setups I'm making:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/s720x720/540291_706234570139_1239474896_n.jpg


The other will use an Aurora Spherical bearing inside a bolt-together aluminum retainer housing.

The pictured setup (Version 2) will be getting beta tested on a friend's M5 for a while before I make some more to sell.

[mattmartindrift]

installing these tomorrow or thursday:


http://www.m5board.com/vbulletin/attachments/m5-e39-group-buy-forum-sponsor-discussion-offerings/156728d1337377041t-thrust-arm-spherical-bearings-monoballs-interested-uploadfromtaptalk1337377039232.jpg

http://www.m5board.com/vbulletin/attachments/m5-e39-group-buy-forum-sponsor-discussion-offerings/156729d1337377056t-thrust-arm-spherical-bearings-monoballs-interested-uploadfromtaptalk1337377054531.jpg

http://www.m5board.com/vbulletin/attachments/m5-e39-group-buy-forum-sponsor-discussion-offerings/156731d1337379435t-thrust-arm-spherical-bearings-monoballs-interested-uploadfromtaptalk1337379433163.jpg

http://www.m5board.com/vbulletin/attachments/m5-e39-group-buy-forum-sponsor-discussion-offerings/157045d1337689533t-thrust-arm-spherical-bearings-monoballs-interested-new-image.jpg

[Jesus Freak]

Those are some really nice pieces!
Rough price for re-sale?

[mattmartindrift]

I had a group buy on M5 board which is over. I may have a few bits left over after I ship everything out which will let go for $500/set.

PM me if you're serious.

[topaz540i]

What will that sperical setup do? Reduce the squish of the rubber bushing therefore reducing flex in the geometry holding proper aligment better? Kinda like taking urethane bushings to an even higher level?
With powerflex urethane i noticed way better turn in on "emergency hazard avoidance" manuevers.

[Jason5driver]

How are you liking the Nt-05's...?

Thanks!
Jason

[Chigga]

You know what would be awesome with those 285 tires? Arc-8 wheels in 18x10.5 size.

[mattmartindrift]

What will that sperical setup do? Reduce the squish of the rubber bushing therefore reducing flex in the geometry holding proper aligment better? Kinda like taking urethane bushings to an even higher level?
With powerflex urethane i noticed way better turn in on "emergency hazard avoidance" manuevers.


Correct. The difference with sphericals is that you aren't flexing the bushing because it allows angular displacement from the axis at which it wants to pivot. It also won't squeak like urethane likes to do.



How are you liking the Nt-05's...?

Thanks!
Jason

<3. Some how they seem to be wearing SLOWER than last year's Hankook V12s. Doesn't make sense, to me.


You know what would be awesome with those 285 tires? Arc-8 wheels in 18x10.5 size.


haha, I already have 6 18x10 SSRs and 4 18x9.5 Fikses. I'm all full-up for wheels, currently.

[Jason5driver]

Correct. The difference with sphericals is that you aren't flexing the bushing because it allows angular displacement from the axis at which it wants to pivot. It also won't squeak like urethane likes to do.




<3. Some how they seem to be wearing SLOWER than last year's Hankook V12s. Doesn't make sense, to me.




haha, I already have 6 18x10 SSRs and 4 18x9.5 Fikses. I'm all full-up for wheels, currently.


Interesting...
So, I take it that these Nitto Nt-05's are not daily-driver tires...?
And, I agree, the Arc-8's would be awesome...!

[Chigga]

haha, I already have 6 18x10 SSRs and 4 18x9.5 Fikses. I'm all full-up for wheels, currently.

None sense, that's like saying your bbq grille is big enough or your tv has enough definition!

Sell the Fikses for cheap, my Ti is gonna need some new wheels after the M52 swap.

[mattmartindrift]

Interesting...
So, I take it that these Nitto Nt-05's are not daily-driver tires...?


as foolish as it is for me to do....they are my DD tires. 70mi/day.


None sense, that's like saying your bbq grille is big enough or your tv has enough definition!

Sell the Fikses for cheap, my Ti is gonna need some new wheels after the M52 swap.


trade you for a set of brakes :)

[mattmartindrift]

Monoballs installed on my car. They're real good. Feels like a R&P car, now. Now, I just need the M5 steering box.


http://www.m5board.com/vbulletin/attachments/m5-e39-group-buy-forum-sponsor-discussion-offerings/157256d1337947151-thrust-arm-spherical-bearings-monoballs-interested-monoball-2.jpg

http://www.m5board.com/vbulletin/attachments/m5-e39-group-buy-forum-sponsor-discussion-offerings/157257d1337947161-thrust-arm-spherical-bearings-monoballs-interested-monoball-3.jpg

http://www.m5board.com/vbulletin/attachments/m5-e39-group-buy-forum-sponsor-discussion-offerings/157259d1337947190-thrust-arm-spherical-bearings-monoballs-interested-monoball-6.jpg

http://www.m5board.com/vbulletin/attachments/m5-e39-group-buy-forum-sponsor-discussion-offerings/157260d1337947199-thrust-arm-spherical-bearings-monoballs-interested-monoball-7.jpg

[mattmartindrift]

M5 steering box in. New center link + tie rods.

I also trimmed the pitman arm stops on the subframe to gain some steering angle.

Looking into modifying the steering knuckles for the drift car to gain angle, and bring ackerman to a desirable level. Maybe lose some of the insane positive camber gain while at full lock.

[Justin517]

Will you be making another run/GB of the monoball thrust arm bushings some time soon?

I am thinking about them as I started to notice a tiny bit of play last time it was up on the lift.

[mattmartindrift]

Will you be making another run/GB of the monoball thrust arm bushings some time soon?

I am thinking about them as I started to notice a tiny bit of play last time it was up on the lift.


I have a single set remaining.

[jdjg]

Can I use GC in a I6 e39? Anyone?

[mattmartindrift]

Can I use GC in a I6 e39? Anyone?

Yes, you'll want to speak to Jay at GC so he can recommend a more appropriate spring rate.

[mattmartindrift]

http://www.m5board.com/vbulletin/attachments/m5-e39-group-buy-forum-sponsor-discussion-offerings/169812d1355196075-thrust-arm-spherical-bearings-monoballs-interested-uploadfromtaptalk1355196074882.jpg



going to be making some of those control arm monoballs, soon.