An interesting discovery regarding E36 front shocks

[cristimm]

Hello all.

I always hated the e36 stabilizer links because they break often (the one linked to the control arm). The other type used on e36 M3, all e46 and every modern car it is much better (linked directly to the shock absorber).

The problem is that e36 shocks do not have the mounting point for the new type. Upgrading to M suspension is not so simple and not cheap.

Now here it comes my discovery - there was a very early design of shock absorbers that do have that mounting point (marked in red in the picture). These are normal shocks (not M) with large hats and do not require changing the spring and other components (or at least I hope so).

In the picture you have the OEM codes for both types.



Please comment.

[cristimm]

New shocks bought and installed. Fit was perfect. 

[Darky]

The e30 m3 had the same set up ie to the shock strut, all the other e30s had it to the control arm.

Do you know what advantages there are going to the shock strut or shock?

Cheers Rohan

[cristimm]

Same with the E36 series (only M has the link to the shock strut). This is not hot news in our days as any car have this setup but back in the day it was something...

Yes I think I do know the advantages (please correct me if I am wrong):
1. The force of the sway bar is transferred directly to the "strut -> king pin -> wheel" assembly rather than through the control arm and lower ball joint.

2. With a small diameter bar you have a greater anti roll effect due to different point of application of force.