suspension questions

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Location
South Carolina
#1
I want to put some new springs on my car. I've never really done anything with the suspension before, so I'm pretty oblivious as to what should be replaced, what goes with what. Is is possible to use H&R performance springs with stock shocks? Or do I need to get high end shocks as well. I'm not running any bigger wheels or tires, just my stock 14" basket weaves.
 
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Location
Toronto, Canada
#3
You will need to do your shocks as well... chances are they need doing anyways. While you've got the front suspension out, you might want to replace the upper strutt bearings. It wouldn't hurt to replace your sway bar links either (front and back). On the rear, change your upper rear shock mounts. Other than that, there's really nothing to it. If you plan on doing it yourself, the hardest part will be getting the front strut inserts out. If you have a torch and a big pipe wrench, you'll be fine. Be careful you don't damage the dust boots on the front end. It's actually a pretty easy job. I was a bit scared to do my car last year, but I did it without any real problems. Very simple procedure. You'll need a ball joint spreader, and some spring compressors, and a torque wrench. Those are really the only special tools you'll need.

Don't forget your before and after photos! Let us know if you have any problems!
 
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46
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Location
South Carolina
#4
yeah, well I know my rear shocks need replacing soon anyway. I wouldn't mind doing it myself, I just don't really have a place to work on it, or the tools. Working on a limited budget, so may have to wait awhile till I can afford all of it.
 
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Location
Toronto, Canada
#5
You should have a compressor and air gun too... It's an easy job with the right tools. The rears are actually really easy to do, both spring and shock. all you need is a ratchet set. the fronts are more of a pain. On the other hand, a good shop should be able to do the whole job in 4-5 hours.
 
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Location
Toronto, Canada
#7
well, like I always say, you can spend the money on labor over and over, or you can spend the money on tools once. Can you post some pics of your car? She looks nice in your sig pic.
 
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Location
Australia
#10
Save the money on the ball joint spreader and use a hammer to hit the ball joints seat while pressuring it down to free it, saves ripping the dust boot on the ball joint too.
 
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Location
Bay Of Islands, NZ
#14
Damn you - I almost edited my post to include z3 and then thought - nah that's just way too BMW geek. Bad enough I posted in the first instance, but editing was a step too far lol.

Ah well, gave you a chance to flex your BMW geek muscle too.
 


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