<E36>318is Spring Rates/Suspension Settings

["Ron Browne" <rbrowne@xxxxxxxxx>]

Current Setup:
   Completely original stock suspension setup on a 1992 318is, with the
exception of replacement Boge Gas struts replaced early this year, ditto any
worn front suspension parts. (16X7.5 inch wheels added last year).

Goal:
  To lower the front end by 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch and firm up the front
suspension compression rate *slightly*.  Hopefully, a side benefit will be
to reduce the slight pitch/nosedive under hard braking.  Also to reduce the
wheelwell gap currenty present.  Do not want to sacrifice current ride
quality, and not too interested in modifying the rear suspension at this
time.

I've noticed that most aftermarket spring/shock kits lower the front of
E36's more than the rear.  (If Im not mistaken, the M3 suspension does this
as well when retrofitted to non-M cars).  As stated above, I feel I could
achieve just the suspension tweak I am personally looking for, if I could
slightly drop/stiffen the front suspension.  Yes, I know suspensions should
be done as full sets, all at one time, etc, etc.  I may end up doing that,
but would first like to experiment with used O.E parts.  Sounds easy, but
after reading tons of posts on this subject at the FAQ's, seems like BMW has
dozens of spring rates for their springs.  Stock, Sport, and M-Technic.  And
within those categories, sub categories of springs coded to match the level
of accessories you have (ie AC, Automatic transmission, Sunroof) to
accomodate the weight of the vehicle.  Or so I've read.

With all the above in mind, I feel that what I'm looking for is the used
front springs from the 318ti with the Sport package.  Those springs should
be about 1/2 inch lower than my current springs, a tad firmer, and be a
suitable match for my current Boge Gas struts.  Again, this is all in
theory.  In theory, I assume the springs from an E36 M3 or 328is with sport
package would not be suitable, as they would be engineered for the weight of
the 6 cylinder engine.  Would be great if someone knew the actual spring
rates for a stock 1992 318is vs. a 318ti with Sport Package.

Any input/experiences welcome.

Ron Browne
1992 318is
Bowie, MD

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