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re: <E36 M3><96> suspension mods

Carl,

I appreciated your comments (& John Browne's subsequent posts)
about mods for improving handling. However, the 96 M3 already
has stiffer rear springs (don't know for certain about the
fronts). When speaking to Mike at Dinan about their options, 
he mentioned that they measured the spring rates on the 96 M3-
they're 60 lbs higher than the 95's yet have the same part
number (maybe they have a different color-coding as mentioned
for the 3 types of 2002 springs). This would make them similar
to the H&R's you mention (395 vs 380 for H&R). This is consistent with
the factory press releases about the 96 having a slightly
stiffer suspension. However, for my taste, the factory
combination of rear springs and shocks are still too soft.

Regarding the front suspension of the 96 M3, Mike at Dinan's 
also said that the front spring perch is a smaller diameter than
the 95's. He suggested that after-market springs for the 96 will have
to accomodate this difference. Mike didn't mention any differences
between the 95 and 96 front spring rates though.

dan
96 M3 Lux, Dinan airbox/exhaust, snorkel, RD bars
87 Dinan 325i Stroker with Dinan Stage 3 suspension & many mods