From digest.v7.n198 Sat Aug 30 23:07:09 1997
From: Bob Stommel <Bob_at_trader.com>
Date: Sat, 30 Aug 1997 19:56:56 -0500 (EST)
Subject: <E36 M3> X-brace parts and installation

Just installed the X-brace on my 95 M3. Others have already commented on its effect. Here are the part numbers and installation steps.

X-brace (same as for E36 convertible; same as the "Motorsport" X-brace):

51-71-8-201-234 "Reinforcement" List price $156.50

Bolts for installation:

        (2 needed)  07-11-9-900-582    "Bolt M10X30-Z1"        List price $1.38 each
        (4 needed)  07-11-9-915-093    "Hex screw" (w/washer)  List price $4.02 each

These parts are available from any BMW dealer (or you can mail order them from some of the Roundel vendors for $199 total). Prices quoted are full retail and do not include the BMW CCA discount most dealers offer. For the E36 M3, you do NOT need the "nutserts" -- they are already in the M3 frame.

Installation:

1. Remove the existing straight cross brace just behind the oil pan. [ed: you must totally remove the old cross brace so crash protection isn't compromised according to BMWNA.]
2. Install the X-brace. The holes that had been used for the straight cross brace are now used for the rearward holes of the X-brace. Use the larger bolts (M10X30 - 16 mm head) for those holes.
3. The front holes of the X-brace will line up with holes in the front subframe crossmember. The "Hex screws" (smaller bolts - 13 mm head) are used in the X-brace holes that face the front of the car.

That's it! Takes about 20 minutes once you have the car up on jack stands.

Bob Stommel
Indianapolis