All:

Well unfortunately my brother and I found the driver side strut leaking oil this weekend and I am now forced to think about changing the struts. I'm pretty much sold on Bilstein Heavy Duties and IDP sport springs. If anyone has any other better suggestions please let me know.

The other dilemna I have is where to buy all the goods. For just about everything excluding the springs and camber kit, bimmerzone.com seems to beat IDPUSA in price. Those who have gone to this sort of suspension upgrade...........where have you gotten your parts? Bimmerzone had the strut mount, strut mount bushing, strut assembly, and shocks all cheaper than IDPUSA including free shipping. IDPUSA has the strut nut spanner tool, sport springs, and camber kit.

Any hints, suggestions, and warnings are welcomed.

Regards,
Gino

 

I have heard that Bilsteins HD's are really harsh, I would look into KONI's if I were you.

Also it isn't IDP, it is IPD. They are expsensive but the customer serivce is the best around. You can also look at Shox.com for your suspension needs.

I had Apex Suspension System springs on my 95 850 n/a and loved them. They were stiff but I loved the feel. I hear IPD springs are not as stiff.

 

I have Bilstein HDs on OEM springs and it's all personal preference but I think they're firm but I don't think I'd call them harsh. I agree that the Konis would be a better choice if you're concerned about ride quality since they are adjustable. I have Koni adjustables on another car and they are excellent and slightly more expensive. I think the springs you use have a lot to do with it too.

 

Thanks for your suggestions. I'll do more research on shox.com. IPD definitely has great customer service.

Kind of a dumb question here but one I have to ask. The IPD springs lower the car something like 1.25 inches. It is the spring that lowers the car not the strut right? A shorter spring would mean that the stud sticking up out the strut tower would be sticking out that much more than say the stock ones on the car now.....right?

I'm just trying to envision how this lowering takes effect........strut or spring?
Thanks,
Gino

 

I fogot to add this question:

Anything I should know regarding the durability and service life between the Bilsteins and Konis?
Thanks,
Gino

 

Not sure about the Bilsteins but the Koni should be the last shock you ever buy. It's fully rebuildable and warranteed for life.