From: Keith Wollenberg <MFreude@kkw.com>
Subject: Re: Lowering an E28 M5
Date: Thu, 22 Jan 1998 17:08:00 -0800

Jerry Chyo asks about his E28 M5 w/ ST springs:

>The measurements at the front/rear
>rocker panels are 7.75"/7.5".  This is back assward 'cause we need a 3/4"
>f/r rake (from various sources).  Dinan springs only lower the car about
>3/4 of an inch but the ST springs are supposed to drop it an additional inch.
>
I, too have Suspension Techniques springs, although with the load leveling
feature retained in the rear.  Measuring to my rockers produces
measurements of 6.5"/7.25" front/rear on the right side, and 6.5"/7.1875"
on the left side.   Dinan put them on for me, and they said they like 5/8"
to 3/4" rear to front differential.  (I know, it seems odd to pay Dinan to
install a competitor's springs, but they were a gift from a friend!)  Thus,
I would question the ride heights you have.  That said, give it a day or
two to settle to the final ride height before assuming it is wrong.

These measurements are taken form a concrete level garage floor, with
fairly new 225/50-16 MXX3 Pilots, FYI.

>My question (finally) is, is there a spacer that needed to be removed from
>the strut tops? 

Certainly not one I am aware of.  However, at the top of the front springs
there is a rubber isolator.  These come in three thicknesses.  If
necessary, the front ride height can be adjusted by changing this pad.  

Hope this helps,


Keith Wollenberg

BMWCCA, V.P. Golden Gate Chapter  (original member number 6,xxx, now 73293)
BMWACA Seattle  (Since 1972)

'88 M5 (MFREUDE)
'72 tii Touring (TOURING)