From digest.v7.n22 Wed Jul 30 07:06:01 1997
From: HMechanic1_at_aol.com
Date: Tue, 29 Jul 1997 18:42:59 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Reply E30 ///M3 Alignment Specs

>From: Garry_Graham_1_at_domtex.com (Garry Graham)
>Date: Mon, 28 Jul 1997 11:50:47 -0400
>Subject: alignment specs for E30 M3 ?
>
> Hey folks, I need some help:
>
> Are there any specific alignment specs I should follow when having my
> car aligned ? Or should I go with the stock settings ? This car has
> stock suspension and is a daily driver/driver school car.

>     

>     Thanks for any advice given, Garry Graham
>                                  88' M3
>                                  Columbus, Ga.

The only adjustable parameter is toe. camber and caster are fixed. Values for camber can be changed by using camber plates or use the BMW "correction" strut mounts, but these items only add/or subtract a fixed amount of camber. I have an 88 ///M3 with Bilstein sports used as a daily driver with some driver schools and some autocrosses, I'm using the BMW correction strut mounts to remain in "A stock" class, but the same thing could be done with Dinan's or Korman's camber plates. The car likes negative camber but, daily driving with a bunch of negative camber will kill tires quick. A good trade off seems to be -1.5 degrees. I also have the offset control arm bushing which add caster for additional high speed stability (not noticable) but will allow the fittment of 225/45R16 tires with 20mm offset wheels. I have my car set up with zero toe. The car is a little twitchy, but the turn-in response is very nice. I would recommend trying 1/16" total toe in as a starting point and see how you like that. I good alignment shop should adjust your toe settings for about $20.

Happy motoring

• -Mike