X brace - new or used

[Tom44]

I’ll probably add the x brace to further reinforce the subframe. Seems like it offers minor improvement in handling dynamics, but minimizing subframe flex seems to be worth it.

My question is, does it matter if you buy new or used for the x brace? Seems to just be a piece of metal bracing. Wondering if it’s prone to warping or flexing if buying used?

Thanks

[aeronaut]

Used is fine. It's as likely to be bent as any other subframe part. That is, very unlikely unless in a nasty crash.

[zellamay]

Unless there is something very weird about BMW (there is, on many places), it should be fine, unless the donor car has been crashed.

[Braymond141]

There are zero issues with good used braces. You do have to look out for bent ones due to accidents though. I’ve run across a few in the two dozen I’ve had over the years.

[golgo13]

Used ones are great, no real reason to get new.

Make sure your front subframe has the inserts with threads for the fasteners though! I think some cars ('95?) didn't have them, but not completely sure on which year(s).

[E85STI]

I got a few in the past from the local pick n pull. One of the older style and one of the newer design that didn't block the oil drain bolt. At least I think that was the reason for the change. I think I paid $14 dollars for each of them. Still need to install one of them and give the other to a friend of mine.

[RBNetEngr]

Used ones are great, no real reason to get new.

Make sure your front subframe has the inserts with threads for the fasteners though! I think some cars ('95?) didn't have them, but not completely sure on which year(s).

My 10/94 build 1995 model had the inserts in the frame. And I’ve heard of 9/94 builds also having them. So I think it was the earlier 1994 builds (through June/July?) that didn’t have them.


-rb

[Tom44]

Just confirming, same part/fitment for E36 M3 and Z3?

Oftentimes these are cross listed as a Z3 part without a part number.

[Tom44]

I got a few in the past from the local pick n pull. One of the older style and one of the newer design that didn't block the oil filter. At least I think that was the reason for the change. I think I paid $14 dollars for each of them. Still need to install one of them and give the other to a friend of mine.

If your friend doesn’t want it, I’ll gladly take it lol

[ChuckDizzle]

I got a few in the past from the local pick n pull. One of the older style and one of the newer design that didn't block the oil filter. At least I think that was the reason for the change. I think I paid $14 dollars for each of them. Still need to install one of them and give the other to a friend of mine.

Blocks the oil filter? The X-brace is underneath the vehicle.

[ScotcH]

Blocks the oil filter? The X-brace is underneath the vehicle.

Oil drain plug he probably meant

[E85STI]

Oil drain plug he probably meant

- - - Updated - - -

Blocks the oil filter? The X-brace is underneath the vehicle.

LOL, yeah I meant the oil drain plug not the filter.

[MParallel]

The Z3 version is 99% identical to the M3. They all fit either model.
The Z3 version comes with an extra plate welded on, where a stop buffer is fitted. This sit nearly against the oil pan and limits the amount the engine can tilt to keep the drivetrain aligned.


The later model with offset cross is the one you want if you want to fit the OEM EU undertray. This has a cutout for the offset brace.

[golgo13]

Now if you want to be extra fancy, get one of the aluminum plates from the early OBDI E36 convertibles like I have.

[aeronaut]

Wowa! Didn't even know those were a thing.

[golgo13]

Wowa! Didn't even know those were a thing.

I ran across it on Craigslist a few years ago and had to look it up. It's a couple pounds lighter than the steel x-brace so I thought, "Why not?" since I'm always looking to shave weight where I can for road racing.

[MParallel]

If it's from aluminium it will bend like Swiss Cheese in case of an accident or other impact.

The part comes back for the E36 Touring model only when looking it up.

Also listed as "Cover", not "Reinforcement", which makes sense if it's from alu - see my first sentence.

[golgo13]

If it's from aluminium it will bend like Swiss Cheese in case of an accident or other impact.

That makes sense, which is why I try not to hit things with my car.

[ScotcH]

If it's from aluminium it will bend like Swiss Cheese in case of an accident or other impact.

The part comes back for the E36 Touring model only when looking it up.

Also listed as "Cover", not "Reinforcement", which makes sense if it's from alu - see my first sentence.

e46 and e90 M3 "cover" is aluminum. I don't think any of them are meant to take a hit. it's to stiffen and reinforce the side loads on the chassis

[MParallel]

e46 and e90 M3 "cover" is aluminum. I don't think any of them are meant to take a hit. it's to stiffen and reinforce the side loads on the chassis

Maybe they function differently in the way the forces are applied and the way they are mounted?

[blckstrm]

That makes sense, which is why I try not to hit things with my car.

Me too, but I've made contact a couple times over the years with really badly rutted roads. I shudder to think about the consequences if I hadn't had my x- brace installed.

[E85STI]

I have to echo I didn't know this aluminum cover/brace even existed!

[jrkoupe]

Now if you want to be extra fancy, get one of the aluminum plates from the early OBDI E36 convertibles like I have.

nice find there!!!!

[bluptgm3]

I have to wonder if there is a slight aero benefit.

[35nhma]

Used ones are great, no real reason to get new.

Make sure your front subframe has the inserts with threads for the fasteners though! I think some cars ('95?) didn't have them, but not completely sure on which year(s).

it's one of those odd things that go with early 95 builds. not sure of the month, but my guess is it tracks with other updates like the seats, steering wheel tilt, fuel pump location, a few others. i think the change is mid year, maybe june or july.

my 10/95 has the inserts already installed.