Caster Solutions?

[EsFors]

Looking for a bit of knowledge on solutions to fix a caster issue. Tried to get #1183 aligned last week and everything came back good but the front drivers side caster at +4.4. This should be closer to +6.2. Thankfully this is only resulting in a slight pull to the left but I want to tackle it asap.

I’ve read through many threads but I don’t see a real definitive solution. Camber/caster plates don’t seem to have enough travel to accommodate more than small adjustments so it looks like replacing the CA mounts with adjustables may be the ticket. Something like these:

https://www.garagistic.com/products/...EaAndTEALw_wcB

https://www.akgmotorsport.com/produc...IaAkjDEALw_wcB

I found 3 or 4 different mfr’s with similar parts. Anyone have some experience or recommendations?

[spdbrake]

The shock towers are too narrow to allow any real caster tweaking.

Are you running camber plates? Were your camber readings equal both sides?

I'd start with a digital inclinometer and compare the L-R tower frame supports to see if one is bent. If they're good, the problem is probably at the bottom and could be a bent lower control arm which are pretty cheap and easy to change.
Next, also measure the L-R shock base tubes and compare sides as well. If they match or are really close to matching, the alignment shop is no good.

Next, is checking of the wheel in the opening. Straight edge the tires front to back to neutral with a string and measure aft edge of front wheel lip to front edge of aft wheel. Compare to side.

If you do go to the adjustable castor rodend setup, be aware it will shift the wheel forward in the wheel well opening when you add caster.

I'd replace the lower control arms 1st. But that's just me.

https://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E36-32...n/Control_Arm/

[EsFors]

Thanks for the knowledge SPD. Camber was within spec but slightly off true on the left. Likely related to the issue at hand? Details attached.

I’ll be taking some measurements tonight once the garage cools down a bit. I have a lot of faith in the shop doing the alignment. A local shop but highly reputable specialists in BMW suspension tuning and race setups.

[FlyingGumby]

My experience with #870... Had a slight pull when my front camber was mismatched. Did not want to lower 1 side only to get it within spec. Used shims to get fronts to match without camber plates.

https://www.bimmerworld.com/Suspensi...him-Kit_2.html

The car tracked straight once camber was corrected. Have done more work since but that fixed the "pull" issue for me.

[FlyingGumby]

You may know that you can change front camber by raising / lowering corners with the spring collars. Consider raising the right and lowering the left to get matching cambers.

Adjusted my front cambers with shims rather than collars to avoid messing up ride heights and corner balancing. Front is currently -1.8. Will install camber plates if more is needed.

Good luck.

[t walgamuth]

I think 4.5 degrees is pretty common. I'd like more but am comfortable with 4.5 or so. leaving the other at 6 I don't know about.

[spdbrake]

Originally Posted by t walgamuth

I think 4.5 degrees is pretty common. I'd like more but am comfortable with 4.5 or so. leaving the other at 6 I don't know about.

Your post triggered my memory. The BDR sheet most folks (and myself) have always used is a 1995 325i E36 and not an M3.

A copy is here.

http://www.clubcobra.com/photopost/d..._Alignment.jpg

[Mike_Gr]

If you dont find any issues with the control arms or anything that seems bent, I use something very similar to the second part you linked and have had good luck. I run a fairly aggressive alignment with -3 degrees camber, +5.5 degrees caster and 0 degrees toe in the front.

[EsFors]

Originally Posted by spdbrake

Your post triggered my memory. The BDR sheet most folks (and myself) have always used is a 1995 325i E36 and not an M3.

A copy is here.

http://www.clubcobra.com/photopost/d..._Alignment.jpg

That’s gotta be it! I can’t believe I missed that on the alignment sheet. Thanks for the second set of eyes.

Mike, I’m not looking for anything crazy in terms of setup as this is strictly a street cruiser. Just looking for stability at speed and competence in the twisties. I was looking at the SLR version of those LCA mounts as they were the only adjustables I could find with some sort of bushing in them, albeit only a 1/4” of delrin at best. I’ll be ordering a pair of those if i can’t pull it back within the correct 325i spec.

I appreciate all the responses, hopefully I can get closer to the 325i spec with my 325i parts!

[coach36]

Originally Posted by Mike_Gr

If you dont find any issues with the control arms or anything that seems bent, I use something very similar to the second part you linked and have had good luck. I run a fairly aggressive alignment with -3 degrees camber, +5.5 degrees caster and 0 degrees toe in the front.

Hey Mike,
I just ordered those caster adjusters. So to achieve a +5.5 caster, those adjusters/rod ends will have to be moved out almost all the way huh? I don't have a gauge to make the adjustment. Can you measure the thread length and tell me please?

[Dominik]

Originally Posted by t walgamuth

I think 4.5 degrees is pretty common. I'd like more but am comfortable with 4.5 or so. leaving the other at 6 I don't know about.

Nothing wrong with 4.5, as long as both are the same.