Alpina B3 3.3 coupe E46 front suspension height/settle help.

[ALPINA-B3-3.3]

Hi everyone.

From my last post I have been doing some more work on the old B3 with Matt at MPE Automotive in Redish Stockport (great work). 2 months ago I had the front suspension replaced with all new BMW parts and the correct Sachs shocks, I only re-used the original Alpina front springs and had them powder coated. I checked the OAL length before and after the treatment and they stayed the same. My car is now sitting very high at the front and I would be grateful if any owners could send me the following front and rear dimensions from their cars: from the bottom of the rim to the top center of the wheel arch both front and rear, as shown in the photo. It would be especially interesting if anyone else has changed theirs recently so I can see if it will settle. I have put a 150miles on but no change, I am going to get it aligned on a Hunter machine but wanted to let it settle before this. I cannot see camber lowering the car much if it's far out. My car is sitting within a few mm's both sides, front is 61cm and rear 58.5cm from the bottom of the rim to the center of the wheel arch, fuel tank 1/4 full. Any measurement or similar experiences would be much appreciated.

[jolls]

Did you source the shocks through an authorised dealer? Alpinas shocks are normally only available with proof of ownership as far as I'm aware.

[ALPINA-B3-3.3]

Yes all parts ordered from my local BMW dealer with the Alpina vin, I have a trade account with them. All BMW OEM top mounts, spring pads & plates, drop links, pinch bolts & shocker protective tubes. Alpina Sachs shockers and bump stops.

[hap]

Could be anything to do with springs that u reused possibly ?

[hap]

Could it be anything with the reused springs affecting this maybe?

[ALPINA-B3-3.3]

Hi, I checked the height of the springs against some used ones I have, and they are the same as my originals before and after powder coating. I know the car will sit a few mm's high due to the due new shocks and top mounts. It would be nice to compare notes with someone that has replaced their suspension in the last year or two to compare heights.

[Rav]

Hi Nigel.

I am sorry for the delay in getting my measurements over to you.

I have been out to measure the Buchloe Beast today.

Here is what I have :

Front
Drivers side - 61
Passengers side - 62

Rear
Drivers side - 57
Passengers side 58

All measured in cms.

Picture to show how i did this. I shamefully hang my head down as I have parked her up filthy......

[ALPINA-B3-3.3]

Thank you mate, I will check on mine when it gets back from having the tracking and camber done on my friends Hunter machine.