Trailing arm suspension bushings - options? Normal vs eccentric?

[dantm]

Hello,

For my z3 I need to replace the suspension bushings...and I'm running into two options:

Set rubber mounting eccentric
	i 33 32 9 058 822	D=30MM			2	0.5 lb	$19.14
	Set rubber mounting
	i 33 32 9 061 945	D=30MM			2	0.5 lb	$19.14

Can somebody give me the quick info on what the differences are? I don't know what's on the car at the moment.

Thanks.

[Randy Forbes]

put the 945s on

[dantm]

Thanks so much...is there a link or place that explains the difference for my education?

[dantm]

Upon doing some research I found this for the explanation:

http://www.rtsauto.com/e30-control-a...-arm-bushings/


"An offset bushing increases the wheel caster (pushes the wheel more forward in the wheel well) which aids in high speed stability, however the down side is that it also increases steering effort and has a tendency to want to return to center. Centered bushings at lower speeds are beneficial because they allow for more precise steering and “flick-ability”, but lose out on the high speed stability. As such there is no real winner, its a matter of choice."

But how does this apply to the trailing arm bushings since there is no steering/etc. to consider there?

[JoshS]

The eccentrics exist as a way to correct the rear alignment in the case of something bent. The weld-on kits are a better way as they are adjustable. Don't bother unless you need to.


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[SunzOut]

Upon doing some research I found this for the explanation:

http://www.rtsauto.com/e30-control-a...-arm-bushings/


"An offset bushing increases the wheel caster (pushes the wheel more forward in the wheel well) which aids in high speed stability, however the down side is that it also increases steering effort and has a tendency to want to return to center. Centered bushings at lower speeds are beneficial because they allow for more precise steering and “flick-ability”, but lose out on the high speed stability. As such there is no real winner, its a matter of choice."

But how does this apply to the trailing arm bushings since there is no steering/etc. to consider there?

Nothing to do with the rear trailing arm bushings...

[abqhudson]

My understanding is that eccentric bushings are available to allow correction of minor rear alignment problems.
My understanding also is that replacement of trailing arms and bushings is very, very, expensive because of the labor involved. Rear subframe needs to be removed??
Please let us know how this all turns out.
Good luck.

[bubbafett]

I'd like to suggest this tool to you. https://www.akgmotorsport.com/produc...-e36-318ti-z3/

[LannVouivre]

I made the tool from 2 1/2" 6" long steel pipe, 1' of 3/8 all thread, two 3/8 coupler nuts, and some big washers for a total of like $10.

[dantm]

Thanks guys...

Turns out my mechanic was able to (a) get out the arms without dropping the subframe - his comment was that it was very tight but no problem....and (b) get and replace the bushings.

We found the offset ones in there so we put back the same. The car is modified with a lowered suspension/etc.

Quick question -- is an alignment recommended after such a change? My thought would be no but I am mostly wrong.

Thanks

[Mr Bingley]

No alignment needed as the rear is non adjustable (except as may be achieved with eccentric bushings, of course).

[abqhudson]

Thanks guys...

Turns out my mechanic was able to (a) get out the arms without dropping the subframe - his comment was that it was very tight but no problem....and (b) get and replace the bushings.

We found the offset ones in there so we put back the same. The car is modified with a lowered suspension/etc.

Quick question -- is an alignment recommended after such a change? My thought would be no but I am mostly wrong.

Thanks

Thanks for the update - good news.

[BimmerBreaker]

I would do an alignment personally. Your rear is adjustable due to the eccentric bushings and you removed/replaced stuff in the rear suspension so things may have shifted

[SunzOut]

I would do an alignment personally. Your rear is adjustable due to the eccentric bushings and you removed/replaced stuff in the rear suspension so things may have shifted

+1 If you have the eccentric bushings ...you need an alignment

Just did mine today. Camber was -2.6 on both sides, but toe was -.34 and +.65 .....