E31/E32/E34 control and thrust arms

[Interceptor]

OK, by p/n cross-referencing, I've come to the conclusion that:
- E32/E34 share the same control (lower) arms
- E31/E32 share the same thrust (upper) arms

What I wanted to know is:
- how are E31/E32 thrust (upper) arms different from E34 ones?
- how are E32/E34 control (lower) arms different from E31 ones?

Is it possible to use E31 control arms on E32/E34, since they use the spherical bearing instead of a rubber bushing like the latter ones? I want to stiffen my suspension and make it a bit more responsive by using thrust arms with 750i bushings and control arms with spherical bearings, if possible.

This page doesn't make it very clear:
http://www.bmwe34.net/E34main/Upgrade/Suspensions.htm

[BigKriss]

yeah with that image

http://www.bmwe34.net/E34main/Upgrad...controlarm.jpg

you can see the lower control arm bushing, the left item is from the e31 while the right one is the normal item. they are swappable but a lot more expensive. the upper control arms you can use 750i bushes but why not use the m5 bush instead?

[Interceptor]

you can see the lower control arm bushing, the left item is from the e31 while the right one is the normal item. they are swappable but a lot more expensive. the upper control arms you can use 750i bushes but why not use the m5 bush instead?

Why? Is M5 bush stiffer than the 750i one?

[BigKriss]

yes it is.

Why? Is M5 bush stiffer than the 750i one?

[632 Regal]

I havent even broken one yet!

Why? Is M5 bush stiffer than the 750i one?

[Interceptor]

I havent even broken one yet!

OK, thanx guys, M5 bush it is, then

[Tiger]

M5 bushing is solid rubber... completely solid... whereas all other bushings is hollow at some points and 750iL has fluid inside. I have yet to put mine in... and it needs it.

[Interceptor]

M5 bushing is solid rubber... completely solid... whereas all other bushings is hollow at some points and 750iL has fluid inside. I have yet to put mine in... and it needs it.

I want a quick, defined steering response. Somehow, I think that's not possible with hollow/liquid-filled ones, so I'll try the solid ones this time I will be replacing the whole upper arm since the rubber boots on the outer ends are shot.

[Tiger]

Another choice is Powerflex thrust arm bushings. A guy in UK did this. With this, you don't have to press it in...

[Interceptor]

Another choice is Powerflex thrust arm bushings. A guy in UK did this. With this, you don't have to press it in...

A friend of mine had PowerFlex bushings on his E36, and one cracked after a few months I also heard they're too harsh and cause other suspension elements to wear considerably faster.