From digest.v7.n1102 Mon Feb 9 19:55:17 1998
From: "Carl Buckland" <buckland_at_mail.xmission.com>
Date: Mon, 9 Feb 1998 14:19:50 +0000
Subject: Failed FRONT subframe

This discussion about failed rear suspension points: From: David Finch <opti_at_ptd.net>
Date: Sun, 08 Feb 1998 08:57:10 -0500
Subject: M/3 CSL E-36 rear Suspension Failure

The rear upper right side control arm mount pulled through the body on mt LTW CSL. It started with a noise (rattle), then the bushing broke and was replaced. It wasn't noticed that the inset nuts welded into the hat had started to crack. At the next track event the welds broke. This allowed to arm to move which steered the car left under torque. BMW says they are un aware of any other failures. The cost to repair was $1,900.00. This is not the same suspension point that was in Oct. Roundel. If anyone esle has had this experience, please let me know. I am aware of several others. David Finch opti_at_ptd.net

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx From: LFmpower_at_aol.com

Date sent:        Mon, 9 Feb 1998 11:54:30 EST
To:               bmw-performance_at_lists.xmission.com
Subject:          Re: M/3 CSL E-36 rear Suspension Failure

Send reply to: bmw-performance_at_lists.xmission.com

Yes I have had one here ...a 1992 325i .... we have made a Jig to get the
subframe bushings re-centered ... we have also designed a re enforcment system that we are offering as an option for all new E 36 race and performance street customers ...... (we just finished on on a LTW ) looking at a prototype tech car at the chicago auto show they have the cage attached directly to the front suframe bushings....

I have pictures of the problem and the fix if anyone needs them or wants to
see them

Leo Franchi

Midwest Motorsport inc

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

.............leads to failed FRONT suspension points, and failed motor mounts. Wade and I just inspected my subframe, and found that it, the second front subframe, has failed again. The bolt that comes thru from the engine mounts, even with a large washer, brakes the area around the subframe. BEFORE putting in another subframe, we are going to reinforce the area with a welded in steel plate. Will Turner says that he does it with all E36's that are going to have firm, race suspensions.

Carl