Reviving the Cheap Parts Debate

[Evan]

I'm in the market for a new suspension. I'm looking for shocks, springs, and complete front end.

Cheap front end parts are $200 for control arms, sway bar links, tie rods, and idle arm.

Lemforder kit from BMA is $650...

Is it really worth it?

[bfd]

I'm in the market for a new suspension. I'm looking for shocks, springs, and complete front end.

Cheap front end parts are $200 for control arms, sway bar links, tie rods, and idle arm.

Lemforder kit from BMW is $650...

Is it really worth it?

Why not contact an auto parts place like BMA, Pelican, Alloembmwparts, etc. and ask for name brand parts like Lemforder control arms, BOGE 750i upper control arm bushings, etc.? That way you get the *best* parts at a lower price.

[Jay 535i]

Agreed. You can have your cake and eat it too if you buy from BMA -- best parts at the best prices.

In the long run, I suspect 'cheap' parts will cost you just as much because you'll have to replace them more often.

[Evan]

I quote BMA prices... but actually wrote BMW!!!

[Ross]

For whatever it's worth.
I just did my whole car using Meyle from partsonline.So far so good.
Also bought their 250 dollar aux. fan that vibrates badly.
Bilstein touring shocks are working fine for me.
As you can see I bought on price, and am mostly happy with my choices.
My 525 has no sporting aspirations, your 540 may demand better stuff.

[Evan]

I can buy an FCP kit for $200... or a Lemforder/M5 bushing kit for $664... will the Lemforder last six years? If not, I should buy cheap parts and change every two years

[Ross]

Are you gonna' have this car in six years?

[Qube]

I have an FCP "upgrade" kit installed. I forgot how long now. It's in my log book and in the forums if you search. No visible problems yet. Of course, I have another complete set should anything happen. So you can have two sets for the price of a Lem. kit.

[nizmainiac]

i get all my parts at trade price from bmw, thats the advantage of being in the trade, if i can't get them the my dad can because he is also in the trade

[632 Regal]

with the steering I would recommend Lemforder

as for the control and thrust arms...

lets see, Im on my 3rd FCP set (replaced for warrantee issues) and the new set is shaking violently on braking (typical bushing issue)...

do I want to do this again? NO I DONT the FCP bushings are complete ****, this set got the wobblies when I had to stop quick to avoid an animal...4 sets? I dont think so. The arm and joint part seem to be okay if you paint them but their bushings are garbage. They tear at the thin part like nothing.