newbie e34 540i owner questions.

[kurt-o]

I just recently aquired a '94 540i. I just have a couple questions. Is there a common problem that would cause shimmying from 50mph-70mph? The rotors appear to be warped as well and i wasn't sure if the shimmying could be related.

Also it would appear that the struts are completely shot, are there any recommended suspension pieces that any of you would recommend on a 540?

Besides the suspension problems, I am very impressed with this vehicle. I'm familiar with the Nikasil issues, I don't know what block is in the car, but so far it seems to run very strong and idle smoothly.

http://gallery2.qsaf.net/gallery/album52/april_2k5_Fun_009

[Kalevera]

Welcome!

1) Yeah....A couple of things -- rotors and (more likely) thrust/control arm bushings and/or ball joints -- read the "first time visitors - read this before posting" at the top of the page for more info :) What kind of mileage do you have? http://www.bmwe34.net should answer this question completely.

2) Suspension upgrades are relatively subjective. If you want to keep it stock, get Bilstein Touring inserts and run the stock springs (could also pick up a set of boge automatics, which are the OE). The problem is that once you start messing around with the suspension, you generally open up a can of worms. If you can swing it, I'd do the entire thing - front & rear struts & springs. I recently installed the popular Sachs Sporting Kit (available from our friends at BMA Auto Parts in CA - http://www.bmaparts.com - for about $700) and find it to have excellent handling in addition to being very smooth. It also tastefully lowers the car. However, it seems like most V8 owners go with the H&R spring. All in all, you can't go wrong with Koni inserts, either. Others will have more to say on the topic, but it really depends on what kind of ride and handling you want.

If you want to determine what block's in your car, check Brett's site out: http://www.koalamotorsport.com. He's got the casting numbers as well as a tutorial on where to find them on your car.

best, whit

[darron525]

also check out http://www.bmwe34.net/E34main.htm. Its the best e34 site hands down. Look under maintenance and click on suspension, it will give the symptoms of worn out parts and how to replace them, also under upgrades it shows whats available for supension upgrades or replacemnent.


darron

[kurt-o]

My car has about 120k miles on it right now.

Thanks for the ideas BTW. I have been reading the e34 website and it has been helpful as well.