I’ve been diving deep into the world of performance modifications for my BMW E36 and one piece of hardware that keeps popping up is the rear strut brace. I see a lot of discussion about it, but I’m curious if it’s really worth the investment.
What is a Rear Strut Brace?
For those of you who might not be familiar, a rear strut brace is a bar that connects the tops of the rear struts (or shocks) to enhance the rigidity of the chassis. This is particularly relevant for older models like the E36 that may experience some flex.
Benefits of Installing a Rear Strut Brace
Improved Chassis Rigidity: By connecting the strut towers, you can reduce the flex in the rear chassis, which is supposed to lead to better handling.
Better Cornering Performance: Many enthusiasts report that the car feels more stable when cornering, as the rear suspension is less likely to lean or flex during sharp turns.
Installation Ease: Generally, these braces are not too hard to install, and some options are even adjustable.
Points to Consider
While I’ve seen numerous positive reviews, I’d like to hear your thoughts:
Do you think it’s absolutely necessary for daily driving, or is it more of a track-day add-on?
Have you installed one yourself, or do you recommend a specific brand?
What changes did you notice in your driving experience?
Shopping Suggestions
If I decide to go ahead and buy one, what brands or styles should I look at? I’ve seen prices range widely, and I want to ensure I’m making a worthwhile investment.
Looking forward to your insights and experiences! Thanks a lot!
Feel free to share any links or products you think are worth checking out. I appreciate any guidance you can provide!
I just installed a rear strut brace on my E36 last weekend, and it’s definitely worth it! The added stiffness improved handling significantly. You’ll need basic tools like a socket set and wrenches. A torque wrench is really helpful too for ensuring everything is tight enough.
That’s awesome to hear! Did you run into any challenges during installation? I’m curious about how difficult it might be for someone with limited experience.
Installation can be tricky if you’re not familiar with suspension components. One common issue is clearing the rear seats and ensuring proper alignment. It’s a good idea to have a friend help you with the installation; it makes things easier!
Great tip about having a friend! I was hoping to tackle this solo, but it sounds like teamwork might be necessary. What specific tools did you find essential?
A basic socket set, ratchet, and some extensions for those awkward angles are essential. Also, a penetrating oil can help loosen stubborn bolts. I’ve had some bolts stuck on mine that took some extra effort to get off.
Good idea! I’ll make sure to have that ready. Any additional steps or tips for adjusting after installation? I’ve heard it’s important to check alignment afterward.
After installing, definitely take it for a test drive to feel the difference. A wheel alignment isn’t strictly necessary, but if you replace other suspension parts, it’s a good idea to have it checked. Also, keep an eye on the struts for any signs of undue wear.
I’ve used both Eibach and AC Schnitzer braces on my E36, and I prefer the AC Schnitzer. It felt more rigid, and installation was straightforward. However, you might want to check price differences.
The AC Schnitzer brace is slightly heavier, but the added rigidity makes it worth it. If you’re really weight-conscious, you might also look into lightweight aluminum options, though they can be pricier.
Interesting! I’m curious about the humor in someone trying to install a brace alone — bet that would be a sight to see! Anyone else have funny stories from their installs?
Oh man, I dropped my wrench into the seat belt mechanism and spent an hour trying to get it out! Definitely turned my solo install into a comedy routine. Just a reminder to keep track of your tools!
I went with an AC Schnitzer brace, and it’s solid. But honestly, there are many good options out there like the Turner Motorsport one. Just make sure it’s adjustable if you want flexibility.
Absolutely! I noticed a significant reduction in rear-end squatting during braking after I installed mine. It’s a game changer for safety and performance.