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      11-07-2023, 07:47 AM   #1
danb1979
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BMW Fx M3 arms retrofit - is it worth it for an every day driver?

++ I've popped this onto the UK section also as that's where I'm based ++

I"ve ordered and paid for all the suspension refresh parts (Eibach pro-kit springs, Bilstein B4S shocks, top mounts, rubber bits, gaskets, some bolts etc) and about to start getting all the arms I'm needing into my Autodoc wish list too, ready to add to the basket etc

Keep reading about the upgrading of the front arms to the F80 M3 arms for F3x cars; question is, is it worth it for what is just an every day driver (my F31)?

What are the benefits, or is it just simply that bit more camber adjustment?

Anyone done this and thought it wasn't worth it etc?

Cheers
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      11-07-2023, 08:28 AM   #2
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All detriment and zero benefit. Basically a bad idea that’s been perpetuated by this forum, YouTube and certain influencers who are looking to make a buck off the unsuspecting/ uneducated.

Better off with a quality replacement set of arms. If truly seeking a performance upgrade: one of the aftermarket options with sealed monoballs is the way to go. Just be prepared for increased NVH if you go that route.
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      11-07-2023, 08:29 AM   #3
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Originally Posted by sspade View Post
All detriment and zero benefit. Basically a bad idea that’s been perpetuated by this forum, YouTube and certain influencers who are looking to make a buck off the unsuspecting/ uneducated.

Better off with a quality replacement set of arms. If truly seeking a performance upgrade then one of the aftermarket options with sealed monoballs is the way to go. Just be prepared for increased NVH if you go that route.
Yeah; not interested in monoballs thanks; absolutely no need for them

I'll stick with OE Lemforder/TRW arms as planned; cheers
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      11-07-2023, 10:18 AM   #4
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Quote:
Originally Posted by danb1979 View Post
Yeah; not interested in monoballs thanks; absolutely no need for them

I'll stick with OE Lemforder/TRW arms as planned; cheers
In complete agreement.
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      11-07-2023, 10:43 AM   #5
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That's that sorted then
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      11-07-2023, 12:20 PM   #6
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Quote:
Originally Posted by danb1979 View Post
++ I've popped this onto the UK section also as that's where I'm based ++

I"ve ordered and paid for all the suspension refresh parts (Eibach pro-kit springs, Bilstein B4S shocks, top mounts, rubber bits, gaskets, some bolts etc) and about to start getting all the arms I'm needing into my Autodoc wish list too, ready to add to the basket etc

Keep reading about the upgrading of the front arms to the F80 M3 arms for F3x cars; question is, is it worth it for what is just an every day driver (my F31)?

What are the benefits, or is it just simply that bit more camber adjustment?

Anyone done this and thought it wasn't worth it etc?

Cheers
I have F80 control arms on my 2014 335i RWD. The genuine BMW M3 control arms are a popular upgrade for the RWD cars on the track.

I didn't notice any substantial NVH increase from the control arms. Shocks/struts/coilovers will have a far larger impact on NVH than genuine BMW M3 control arms IMO. However, your steering response feel will improve with the M3 control arms.
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      11-07-2023, 03:29 PM   #7
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May I use your topic,

I will ask the same.

I just installed pair of m3 arms. For now is currenly undrivable because the alignment is totaly crazy. Tommorrow I have an apoitment at the aligment shop and I hope everything goes well. I will give an update.
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      11-07-2023, 07:38 PM   #8
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Quote:
Originally Posted by R1d3r View Post
May I use your topic,

I will ask the same.

I just installed pair of m3 arms. For now is currenly undrivable because the alignment is totaly crazy. Tommorrow I have an apoitment at the aligment shop and I hope everything goes well. I will give an update.
You basically have to have toe plates to get it closer if you're doing to need to drive to a place with an alignment rack.
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      11-11-2023, 02:08 AM   #9
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It's been great for me, 5 years in. Sharper turn in, heavier steering. Does add a lot of caster though so there's a chance of rubbing if you are lowered. For me, it's the most worthwhile mod.
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