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Join Date: Oct 2003
Location: Parrothead, NC
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'96 328 convert suspenson upgrade?

I have a '96 328 convert (non M3, non sport suspension)looking for some suspenson upgrade advice. I used to drive a 944, and even stock that thing handled great - this 328 tends to have a lot more body roll (yes, I know it is a heavier convertible, but it should also have the x brace - right?) anyway - do I want to try to duplicate the factory sport suspenson, or is there a better way to rid myself of this body roll in tight turns? That is reall all is want - flat cornering. Thanks

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Old 03-22-2005, 11:15 AM
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If you want to just flatten out the ride, then something like the UUC Swaybarbarians should do the job (here's some feedback on them....)

[Just had these buggers installed thanks to the help of bbh03.
Ride home was mostly highway so only really checked out the off ramp. High speed turn-in is much improved and chasis lean cut more then half.
It's funny, overall it seems firmer but with no harshness. Will know more after a few more days of use. Current settings are full stiff front, Soft rear.
As for the install, lack of torque specs (for rear) and instructions was disapointing. The specs we are given from UUC's site are for a e36 M3 and don't apply to the e46. TIS shows higher values for both bracket and link. Fortunately MY330i site had these, but nothing for the rear. Think from start-finish (including test drive X2 and link adjustments) was 3-4 hours for 2 people.
So far I'm really happy with them. Thanks again Brian!]

My convertible came with the stock sport package, and I like it other than I could use it a little more flat in the corners, but it's great as a daily driver.
Old 03-22-2005, 02:08 PM
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Here's a little more info... http://www.uucmotorwerks.com

1995-1999 E36
M3,328, 325, 323, 318 (not ti)
$350 click here All swaybar kits include:

polyurethane bushings

3 hole, adjustable front bar

2 hole, adjustable rear bar.

adjustable rear end links
Old 03-22-2005, 02:14 PM
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Thanks - I have had some folks suggest that getting the M3 rear bar would be the way to go..thoughts?
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'80 GTI
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'84 944
'96 328iC

now 2001 Miata LS - also looking for 944 cabrio
Old 03-23-2005, 04:08 AM
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Don't know... it's personal choice (and what you find a deal on). I know the UUC is fully adjustable... don't know about the M3 gear, but M3 stuff is good stuff. I don't think you can go wrong either way...
Old 03-23-2005, 06:46 AM
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Any of you Pelican Parts guys have an opinion on this?
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'70 914
'80 GTI
'94 Miata
'84 944
'96 328iC

now 2001 Miata LS - also looking for 944 cabrio
Old 03-23-2005, 07:17 AM
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Re: '96 328 convert suspenson upgrade?

Quote:
Originally posted by Capndar
I have a '96 328 convert (non M3, non sport suspension)looking for some suspenson upgrade advice. I used to drive a 944, and even stock that thing handled great - this 328 tends to have a lot more body roll
Right there is your problem- the 944 I mean. My other car is a Lexus ES300 and after driving it for a few days my 328iC will seem like a Porsche. Just go take a test ride in a Lexus or a Buick and your 328 will be miraculously Porsche-like.
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Old 03-24-2005, 12:47 PM
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Oh, isn't that the truth... by the way, the x-brace on the convertible is to stiffen the body and reduce cowl shake since there is no roof... it doesn't do much for body roll. I'd still go with the UUC stuff, since it's made for a non-M car and is fully adjustable so you can dial in exactly what you want... just remember, it won't be Porschesque, but you won't worry about capsizing like in a Buick!
Old 03-24-2005, 01:33 PM
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I have UUC Sways on both my E46 and E36. I've been very happy with them but the clearance on my E36 is very tight where the bar goes beteen the rear axle and camber arm. I need to call them about that... (Just called and they said it was normal.)

Sway bars in general will do what you want, they are inexpensive and fairly easy to install. Front is 30 min and the rear is <2 hours. you need ot droop the mufler to snake the rear bar in. I recommend medium setting in front and full soft in rear to start.

M3 bars would be a good cheap upgrade. People sell their old bars all the time.
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Last edited by Jeron; 03-25-2005 at 01:13 PM..
Old 03-25-2005, 01:09 PM
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Yeah, I've heard from other owners where the clearance of the UUC on the E36 is tight.

Old 03-25-2005, 03:03 PM
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