Ride height- E39

[sparks_E39]

Ever since having new front shocks 3 months ago I have been displeased with my E39's front right height. It's way too high compared with the rear. The rear shocks and suspension are apparently fine. Not helped by running 17 inch wheels on SE suspension I'm sure. Please excuse the car being filthy, but here's a couple of pics;





What are my options to lower it without ruining the ride? Can it be done for <£500?

[Effortless]

Are you sure you haven't had the springs changed as well?

Shocks don't normally have any influence on ride height, but springs do.

HTH,
Effortless.

[sparks_E39]

Nope, same springs and the shocks were the correct one's. The old shocks were knackered, leaking quite badly. I was told because they were off the car for a while they may take a while to settle, but not this long.

[Effortless]

Well, I agree with you it certainly doesn't look right, but, if it isn't the springs, I have no idea!!

And I also agree with you that it shouldn't take long at all for the suspension to 'settle' after any changes.

I'm flummoxed!!

Cheers,
Effortless.

[sparks_E39]

No problem, thanks

All I can think is that the rears are tired (although no mention at the MOT) and sagging, causing the front to raise?

Over on another forum they think I may have V8 shocks. However I've just spoken to the garage and the guy said he will have a look, and if there is anything wrong as a result of their work they will rectify it.

Edited by sparks_E39 on Saturday 12th January 12:20

[kavman0]

It does look high, was it originally on SE suspension?If it is I think it's the correct height. I have the same car but it was ordered new with The mtec suspension.

[sparks_E39]

kavman0 said:

It does look high, was it originally on SE suspension?If it is I think it's the correct height. I have the same car but it was ordered new with The mtec suspension.

It's always been on SE suspension. I know 17 inch wheels will make it ride higher, but this is excessive in my opinion.

[kavman0]

What shocks did you fit? Some have higher spring perches, I have seen spring perches for sale somewhere online that lower the car by 10 mm.

[sparks_E39]

kavman0 said:

What shocks did you fit? Some have higher spring perches, I have seen spring perches for sale somewhere online that lower the car by 10 mm.

They were k&p shocks. Very good reputation. It's going to the garage first to see if they can rectify it. I'm somewhat cautious of lowering it.

[HustleRussell]

It does look high but not radically so- and lowering it at the front only will move the weight distribution backwards. Fitting slightly shorter springs of the same spring rate, or fitting lowered spring seats, won't effect the ride quality but will move you closer to the bump stops. Probably not a problem though.