E46 M3 - New shocks needed

[calum_ek]

Time for new shocks for the M3.

It's done over 90k now on the original set so thinking it could do with a refresher. Plus there's a slight wheel shake at speed which I'm attributing to worn shocks, (Recently had new suspension arms/ball joints/brake calipers pads and discs so I'm guessing new shocks should tighten up the handling)

Does anyone have any experience using aftermarket shocks (Bilstein/Koni etc) on their E46?

Ideally I want to keep the OEM springs as I want to keep the ride height and a decent level of comfort if I can.

I'm swaying towards Bilstein B6 shocks all round but would like to hear if anyone has had good results with an alternative?

Cheers

[Jim1556]

Do a search on M3Cutters - there are plenty of people who done exatly what you've done, and due to the 'potential' cracking of the OEM springs, have swapped them for Eibachs or something similar whilst keeping or improving OEM ride height/quality...

[calum_ek]

Yeah seems Bilsteins are the shock of choice for what i'm after!

Had a search and there's some great reviews on m3 forums

[neutral 3]

Yes.....Bilstein Sports.......my one will be getting a set when I'm £ flush.

Also your springs will be tired at that Milage as well.

[Craigwww]

If budget allows; KW variant 2 or Bilstein PSS10. If looking for a more economical solution, then Bilstein B6 with OEM Springs.

[mattcambs]

Really interesting recent thread on Cutters here: http://forums.m3cutters.co.uk/showthread.php?t=125...

Regarding the Eibach springs that come with their B6 dampers to form the B12 kit, there is a lot of conflicting reports on the internet. The above thread's OP has tried a number of suspension combinations on his M3 and really likes OEM springs with B6 dampers (and also likes the B12 kit). With OEM spring reliability, it is only the rears that are prone to cracking so you could consider them to be a consumable if ride quality is the top priority.

[calum_ek]

Good read that, seems the only downside to the B6 with OEM springs is the increased ride height.

From the pictures when first installed they look like they give a good 1" lift!

Hopefully they would settle over time