Thursday, June 23, 2011

PRODUCT REVIEW: When to change shock absorbers on your 3 series e46. If you hear any knocking noises, Spongy ride, frequent bottoming out, Choppy tire

PRODUCT REVIEW: When to change shock absorbers on your 3 series e46. If you hear any knocking noises, Spongy ride, frequent bottoming out, Choppy tire wear. These are all reasons to take a closer look at your suspension components.


Most car owners will pretty much ignore the shock absorbers on their BMW's unless there is some noise or extreme failure. After all who ever heard of getting stranded on the side of the highway due to poor ride quality. Most of my clients don't understand why their 100,000 mile BMW doesn't ride like it did when it was new, until after we have installed a new set of shock absorbers. That's when they instantly remember the agile responsive handling of a new BMW.
In simple terms a shock absorber is a piston attached to a rod which is encapsulated inside of an oil filled cylinder. The piston has small holes in the body which allows the shock oil to move to opposite sides of the piston. The viscosity of the oil, passing through these small holes in the piston is what creates the dampening effect of the shock. Over a period of time the cylinders, seals, and oil breaking down reduces the ability for the shock to dampen the effect of road imperfection. This is why a worn shock will allow a vehicle to dip deeper into road dips, and continue bouncing once the vehicle exits the pot hole. This uncontrolled rapid oscillation is the result of worn shocks.
At 50,000 miles shock absorbers begin showing signs of wear. After 80,000 miles most O.E. shock absorber are in need of replacement.
When selecting replacement shocks always go with a brand that is an O.E. supplier to your brand of vehicle. For BMW or Mini my recommended choices are Bilstein, Sachs/Boge, or Koni.

al hafner


Part Number: 301305
Manufacturer Number: 22-103093


(click image to enlarge)
Bilstein Touring (Front Left)
Not Eligible for Free Shipping
If performance is your requirement, then Bilstein is your shock absorber. Bilstein supplies more European racing teams than any other manufacturer. The high quality construction enables Bilstein to dampen even the slightest suspension movement. Under severe road conditions the high pressure nitrogen gas chamber prevents foaming of the oil. This foaming action is why conventional oil filled shocks fail under these high stress conditions. For lowered vehicles requiring less shock travel, Bilstein offers the sport shock. Bilstein sport shocks are built approximately 1" shorter to compliment the shorter spring heights. The Bilstein limited lifetime warranty is to the original purchaser only. covers defects in material and workmanship only. Copy of purchase invoice is required. Sold Individually.

A $15.00 surcharge will apply to all single Bilstein items sold, if two of more Bilstein items are purchased the surcharge will not apply.





Products > BMW Performance and Accessories > BMW Performance Suspension Parts > BMW Lowering Springs & Bilstein Shocks > BMW Bilstein & Koni Shocks

Friday, June 10, 2011

PRODUCT REVIEW: BMW Cam Timing Tool Kit - Designed for BMW 325i, 328i, M3 e36 M50, 328i, 325i, 330i e46 M52, 318is e30, e6 m42 and m44 cylinder head removal. Without this tool, re-timing the camshafts after a valve job is almost impossible. - Click to View this Article.

BMW Cam Timing Tool Kit



Cam Timing Tool Kit


Designed for BMW 325i, 328i, M3 e36 M50, 328i, 325i, 330i e46 M52, 318is e30, e6 m42 and m44 cylinder head removal.

If you have ever attempted to do a valve job or cylinder head gasket project on an M42, M44, M50, or M52 engine you know that the repair manual will refer to the special BMW timing tool kit. This tool kit includes a flywheel locating lock pin, and a special set of camshaft locators that lock the cams in a precise location. The tools are very easy to install. The kit is specifically designed to hold the engine and cams in proper timing during the cylinder head removal and re installation process. This avoids the chance of bending the valves doing the head install process. The precision ground holding blocks lock over the square ends of both intake and exhaust cams. The CNC machines flywheel locating pin passes through a hole in the rear of the engine block and passed through a machined hole in the flywheel.

To avoid improper cam timing on the latest BMW engines, the factory has devised a cam timing system that locks the crankshaft and cams into a specific position prior to cylinder head removal. This method was devised to avoid any misalignment, resulting in piston to valve damage. Unfortunately without these tools re-timing the camshafts after a valve job is almost impossible. The factory specification manual does not supply installation specifications. The BMP design cam timing kit includes all the necessary components to do the job.


View More BMW Tools Below:

Products > BMW Performance and Accessories > BMW Repair Manuals & Books > BMW Tools
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Wheel Alignment and Mounting Tool (M12x1.5)
Part Number: 180213    

This tool simplifies the task of mounting wheels onto your vehicle. Thread the tool into the wheel hub and then slide the wheel into place. This tool positions the wheel in the correct alignment with the hub for quick installation on the lug studs. (more info)
Interior Trim Removal Tool Kit
Part Number: 33125    

This nylon trim removal kit is the perfect set for any toolbox, this kit includes (6) distinctive tools for removing trim panels without damaging the clips or the trim panel itself. (more info)
BMW / MINI 17mm Protective Wheel Socket
Part Number: 192346    

The BMP protective wheel bolt socket is designed for any BMW or Mini Cooper wheel that have extra deep recessed wheel mounting bolts. The special Delrin protective sleeve will protect the painted wheel surface. (more info)
Service Reset Tool (20 pin)
Part Number: 115134    

Economical reset tool with 20 pin connections. (more info)
Compatible with models from 01/1987 to 06/2000
Service Reset Tool (Both 15 & 20 pin)
Part Number: 115126    

Economical reset tool with connections for both 15 and 20 pin ODB ports. (more info)
Compatible with models from 01/1982 to 06/2000
Fault Code Reader & Service Reset Tool (20 Pin)
Part Number: 137677    

If your aim is to reset BMW's unique brand of dash lights, repair, pinpoint and analyze, there is no substitute for factory capable tools like the R5/FCX3 made by Peake Research Corporation. (more info)
Compatible with models from 01/1988 to 06/2000


Fan Clutch Removal Spanner
Part Number: 143240    

Useful tool for replacing the fan clutch on most BMWs. (more info)
BMW Fan Clutch Removal Spanner Tool
Part Number: 143235    

Useful tool for replacing the fan clutch on most BMWs. (more info)
Fan Clutch Slim 32mm Wrench
Part Number: 143251    

Useful tool for replacing the fan clutch on most BMWs. (more info)
Jack Pad
Part Number: 97268    

Heavy duty urethane protects under carriage of your car. (more info)
Liquivac Oil Changer
Part Number: 103005    

High volume vacuum pump removes oil through dip stick tube.
No mess, no more crawling under the car. (more info)
Brake Pressure Bleeder
Part Number: 135780    

Makes bleeding brakes a one man operation. (more info)
Brake Bleeder Catch Bottle
Part Number: 176222    

The BMP design Brake Bleeder Catch Bottle is the perfect companion to our Pressure Bleeder and makes the job easier and cleaner. (more info)
Deluxe Automotive Meter
Part Number: 138037    

Kit includes: Autometer, rubber shock resistant holster, inductive tachometer lead, volt/ohm test leads, and temperature probe. (more info)
BMW Mechanical Tire Pressure Gauge
Part Number: 164429    

Portable and shock-resistant gauge, with a durable stainless steel flex line, assuring you years of reliable service. (more info)
Tire Pressure Gauge
Part Number: 115177    

This is the same analog tire gauge that our techs use in our service department. Very accurate, Easy to read face with one pound increments. (more info)
Compression Tester
Part Number: 115142    

Locate piston ring, gasket, head and valve problems.
Great for used car check before buying. (more info)
Leak Down Tester
Part Number: 115185    

The BMP cylinder leak down tester will determine the exact reason for your engine's compression loss. (more info)
Exhaust Back Pressure Tester
Part Number: 115169    

Excessive back pressure can indicate catalytic converter or muffler problems. (more info)
L-Jetronic Test Kit
Part Number: 115207    

A must for diagnosing any fuel injection problem. (more info)
Electric Test Light 6-12 Volts with Coiled Wire
Part Number: 115215    

This tool is a must for every tool box and allows you to check for positive power on any 6 or 12 volt system. (more info)
Electric Test Light 6-12 Volts
Part Number: 115214    

This tool is a must for every tool box and allows you to check for positive power on any 6 or 12 volt system. (more info)
Coolant Flush/Fill Tool (Vacuum Style)
Part Number: 115186    

The tool is vacuum operated, and requires a shop compressor for operation. The kit will work on BMW, Mini Cooper and most other vehicles. Kit includes an adapter which fits securely into the coolant tank or radiator filler neck. (more info)
Tie Rod Ball Joint Puller
Part Number: 115452    

Will safely remove tie rods without damaging the dust boots. Heavy steel construction provides for years of trouble free operation. Fits all models. (more info)
Clutch Wear Gauge
Part Number: 192350    

Check the thickness of the clutch disk without transmission removal. (more info)
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Products > BMW Performance and Accessories > BMW Repair Manuals & Books > BMW Tools