New Suspension

[Braz86]

One of the main points I need to sort, ideally before the MOT at the end of the month is the almost 20-year-old suspension.

Can I have some sensibly priced recommendations (I don't want top spec stuff as I don't have the funds) for springs and shocks, tempted to go for slightly lowered, but would like to hear peoples thoughts as I don't want the ride to be too stiff.

 

[DavidM]

Might be best to go for OEM replacement shocks with Eibach Lowering Springs - may lead then to the purchase of spacers to ensure car wheel stance suits the mods? That is what I had did with my car - looks fine.

 

[NZ00Z3]

I use Meyle shocks and struts for the OE type of ride. They are also the cheapest option down in my neck of the woods.

 

[colb]

https://www.micksgarage.com/d/shock-absorbers/bmw/bmw-z3/z3-1995-to-2003/1-9-116-1895/products
Micks Garage online currently have discount offer on front and rear shocks, japaparts and Monroe and KYB makes.

 

[Lee]

Here you go everything you need, just add tools.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/SACHS-BM...525466&hash=item4d8f429b83:g:N5AAAOSwVKhcjkyC

 

[BMBabe]

Here you go everything you need, just add tools.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/SACHS-BMW-Z3-E36-SHOCK-ABSORBER-SET-REAR-FRONT-top-mount-DAMPERS-KIT-STANDARD/333115988867?fits=Car+Make:BMW|Model:Z3+Roadster&epid=1816525466&hash=item4d8f429b83:g:N5AAAOSwVKhcjkyC

And add a Zedshed crew

 

[Braz86]

Here you go everything you need, just add tools.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/SACHS-BMW-Z3-E36-SHOCK-ABSORBER-SET-REAR-FRONT-top-mount-DAMPERS-KIT-STANDARD/333115988867?fits=Car+Make:BMW|Model:Z3+Roadster&epid=1816525466&hash=item4d8f429b83:g:N5AAAOSwVKhcjkyC

@Lee found Sachs shocks and apex 30mm lower springs on car parts for less, as well as mounts, and new lollipops that I need, all at a very good price.

Hopefully they won't take long to come in, can I bring her down to the zed shed on the 11th to get the work done? Only weekend I'm free before the MOT!

 

[mrscalex]

I use Meyle shocks and struts for the OE type of ride. They are also the cheapest option down in my neck of the woods.

First time I've heard mention of someone using Meyle shocks on here. Good to know they are decent.

The penny only dropped recently that Meyle HD and Meyle Standard are 2 very different beasts. Meyle HD generally gets good reviews. Meyle Standard less so.

The most used suspension components on a Z3 use a mix of the 2 - definitely not all Meyle HD. It's caused me to re-evaluate Meyle as my go to brand. I've started buying TRW parts. I thought they were just another Chinese made low end part. But they are actually a very long standing manufacturer of OE equipment. So they are actually a quality brand at decent prices. I just bought a full set of TRW brake flexis and so far so good.

As with all these brands though you still need to pick your way through. This part from manufacturer A that one from manufacturer B. I suspect BMW are the only single supplier of wall to wall quality product. Which is one reason you pay a little more as they have done the hard work in identifying who's worth buying from and what properly fits the car.

 

[Beamerlad007]

Here you go everything you need, just add tools.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/SACHS-BMW-Z3-E36-SHOCK-ABSORBER-SET-REAR-FRONT-top-mount-DAMPERS-KIT-STANDARD/333115988867?fits=Car+Make:BMW|Model:Z3+Roadster&epid=1816525466&hash=item4d8f429b83:g:N5AAAOSwVKhcjkyC

thanks a lot for sharing

 

[Spike76]

In the time it took to eat my cereal this morning, I paid Mazza for his tank straps, read this post, hit the ebay link and bought the shocks set. A tad compulsive but I thought whilst i was planning on getting underneath, i'd crack a couple of jobs that needed doing.

Now, just have to face the music when she looks at the credit card statement. Wish me luck!

 

[2DunnsZ3]

Might be best to go for OEM replacement shocks with Eibach Lowering Springs - may lead then to the purchase of spacers to ensure car wheel stance suits the mods? That is what I had did with my car - looks fine.

your car sits perfect in my opinion. mine was lowered already when I purchased from my boss, and also before he purchased. if you hit a rough area in the road it feels like I have no shocks. could my struts be bad but springs ok? it has wore through the plastick fender liners.

 

[DavidM]

your car sits perfect in my opinion. mine was lowered already when I purchased from my boss, and also before he purchased. if you hit a rough area in the road it feels like I have no shocks. could my struts be bad but springs ok? it has wore through the plastick fender liners.

That could be the case - my car is a bit rough going over uneven roads - I may well invest in new shocks soon.

PS Maybe some of the more experienced mechanically minded members could help with other possible causes?