Some free time at last. I was able to start the BMW M Performance Suspension Kit assembly this weekend while my girlfriend was doing an oil change for her 2016 X3 35i. This is the first time I've worked on suspension. I plan on actually installing it into my 2014 335i M Sport RWD SAT next weekend. Here's a picture of the BMW DIY crowd at APG Auto Crafts Shop: Tools used: • Schwaben 18mm Strut Socket for front strut (allows the use of an Allen key to counter-hold the strut) • 6mm Allen key for front strut • 5mm Allen key for rear strut • 16mm go-through socket set for rear strut (Schwaben did not sell a 16mm Strut socket and the torque specification was only 3x N-m so hand tight with 3/8' rachet go through socket was sufficient) Here are a few notes from my assembly: • Lay out the parts prior to assembling.

There aren't many parts so it should not be too complex. A quick peak at the parts diagram from RealOEM should be sufficient to figure out how the top hat, bump stops, upper spring perch/boot, spring, lower spring perch, and strut go together. • Receive and seek advice on how to use a spring compressor if you are unfamiliar with its operation. House party lop game.

I ended up using the shop's wall mounted spring compressor which made the job pretty easy. I still had to consult with some of the staff to make sure it was set up correctly so I didn't end up killing myself or other people. • You'll have to make sure the spring is positioned correctly with the wall mounted unit.

Bolt torque specifications for Copelametic compressors can be found in the Application Bulletins, 4-1219. These bulletins are located using the Online Product Information section of our website, or by contacting your local Authorized Emerson Wholesaler. BMW 2.5L-152ci-S6 Engine Torque Specs. Over 6,000 Automotive Torque Specs. Search Car Torque Specifications by Engine or Model. Torque Spec Database.

If it's not, the spring might twist while you're compressing/de-compressing it. • We ended up compressing from the top hat because the springs are relatively short compared to the average vehicle setup.

• Make sure you properly line up the end of the springs with the spring pads notches. Not doing so means you'll have to put the entire assembly back onto the spring compressor and make adjustments which is more time consuming than doing it right in the first place. • Front strut collar nut will take quite a few rotations before you hit the torque spec. Be prepared to re-position that strut socket with Allen key for a bit. • Rear struts are relatively easy.

See note on 16mm go through sockets above. Using a wall mounted spring compressor for assembly: Fully assembled kit ready for install next weekend: On a side note my girlfriend and I added a DeWalt DCK398HM2 combo kit to our tool collection this past week: It came in handy for her tire rotation while we were at the APG Auto Crafts Shop. I attempted to install my M Performance Suspension yesterday but experienced a fail along the way so I'll be attempting it again in approximately 2 weeks. The short story is that I applied the wrong torque setting to the hex bolts that fasten the front top hat to the strut tower. My car originally came with M10 (steel) bolts that are spec'd to 41 ft. + 90 degrees.