Upgrading my stock rack and pinion

[bonoz]

Just wanted to ask if getting a non-M Z3 rack would be a good upgrade for my daily driver's stock rack that is failing?

[pbonsalb]

It won’t hurt. It’s a little tighter — enough to notice. But to make your car great handling, replace every bushing, ball joint, End link and mount on the car.

[bonoz]

Any other thoughts on this? Is it better to just stick to stock e36 rack?

[pbonsalb]

Are you into performance and always buying parts that will hopefully give higher performance and willing to make compromises if needed? There is loads of info on the non-m z3 rack conversion if you search so you can make an informed decision. I did it early this year and am experiencing no downsides and slightly sharper turning. I do wish the on center feel was heavier but my car even with 255/275 tires does not dart around following pavement grooves like some say happens.

[bonoz]

Are you into performance and always buying parts that will hopefully give higher performance and willing to make compromises if needed? There is loads of info on the non-m z3 rack conversion if you search so you can make an informed decision. I did it early this year and am experiencing no downsides and slightly sharper turning. I do wish the on center feel was heavier but my car even with 255/275 tires does not dart around following pavement grooves like some say happens.

What does 'darting' around mean?

[pbonsalb]

Quicker rack will change directions quicker, whether you are turning wheel or ruts in road or whatever is helping bring wheels off track.

[Eric93se]

I would think that's more of a tire issue or an alignment issue (toe).

[pbonsalb]

Bigger tires exaggerate handling effects with the same alignment.