BMW 3 Series E46 . E46 Complete Vehicle Front Suspension

Vehicle: Application and ID Front Suspension

Front Suspension



The single ball joint, strut axle of the E46 is based on the E36 design. Design and component changes were developed to improve the ride quality and handling characteristics. The following changes are incorporated into the E46 front suspension system: - A new forged aluminum control arm is used on the E46. It offers the advantages of weight reduction and lower unsprung mass. - Hydraulic bushings are used for the rear lower control arm support. - Hollow strut piston rods are used to reduce weight - The steering knuckles are press fit into the strut tubes which reduces the tolerances of the front suspension geometry. - The caster has been increased to improve straight line stability - The track has been widened for improved cornering (+2.9 inches on the 323/+2.6 inches on the 328) - Aluminum brake dust shields are used for weight reduction

Altogether there is 5.72 lbs less unsprung weight in the front suspension which enhances ride comfort and handling.

The top of the strut is mounted through elongated holes. The strut is fixed in position when the vehicle is assembled. If minor corrections need to be made to the front end alignment, the pin can be driven down and the strut can be moved in the slots to adjust the camber. Approximately .5 degrees of adjustment is available by moving the strut in the slots.