subframe doom in NC!!!

[flyingscotsman]

Hey guys

I'm new to this forum, but need some assistance.

I have impending rear subframe failure (E36) and need to find a qualified (and willing) shop in the Raleigh-Durham area.

If anyone knows of an independent that has done this repair before, please pass the info along.

Thanks!

[smcgowan]

http://www.stgbmwservice.com/

Email them and ask:)

[billb]

http://www.stgbmwservice.com/

Email them and ask:)

scotsman is a coworker of mine, and this is primary transportation, so it needs to be done right but efficiently!

[ScottyWM]

I'm not sure about what exactly the repair is you need, but I've always had good luck with Renaissance Auto (Cary) 919-461-0700. Not as cheap as I'd like, but always did good work for me.

http://www.renaissanceautocare.com/

[flyingscotsman]

Thanks- I'll give them a try.

The problem is that on early (non-M) E36's the center suspension member (diff carrier) can acutally rip out the mounts to the chassis. The risk increases with high miles, hard driving, and aftermarket suspension / wheels. I'm 3 for 3...

Apparently replacing all the rubber bits early on is the best defense, next to installing the BMW reinforcing kit (standard on M and later E36's).

[Rigmaster]

I've got a welder!!

Bring it on and we'll git-r-done...... :)

Just need someone to help and it shouldn't be too hard, anyone got any documentation on what EXACTLY needs to be done?? I've heard alot about this failure, but never actually seen one in person. You planning on using the "kit" to fix it or ??


Bret.


ps- I'm serious.

[Rigmaster]

OK, I've done my research.

Looks like the repair parts (BMW) are readily available for ~$100 or so. The main labor expense is removing/reinstalling the subframe/diff/etc. Some folks have done the R+R themselves, and then found a mobile welder to do the welding of the reinforcement plates. It should not be a difficult job for a welder with basic skills and a good MiG or TiG welder to do the repair.

I'll be glad to help, if one or two of you local guys are willing to help with the subframe/diff R+R.

HTH.

Bret.

[ScottyWM]

Need to check my '93 318 then I guess?

Bret, did you ever get an E36 coupe donor?

[Rigmaster]

Need to check my '93 318 then I guess?

Bret, did you ever get an E36 coupe donor?


Scott,

couldn't hurt to check your 318i, but I doubt it has enough HP to put too much strain on those mounts.... ;)

I don't have any E36 coupes, but I've acquired 2 E36 sedans since you were last out here, plus that E36 318i cabrio.


Thanks, Bret

[flyingscotsman]

Bret

I appreciate your enthusiasm, and I hope you're not looking to add another E36 to the lot!

Truett got back to me and Shadetree is willing to do it, but not until September sometime. I don't think that the car will survive that long:

I was under the car tonight doing some additional inspection, and the pass side front mount is at least 1/4 torn out already. The threaded stud spins free of the sheetmetal, too. Ouch!

Looking online I found all the rubber mounts and rei kit for about $160. I'm going to call the dealer to see if they can do better with CCA discount.

I figure with an arbor press, a welder and some luck it is doable. I've never turned down a challenge before, and this one seems like a real peach.

So, if we're looking for a long day (or days) of work- then I'm game.

[Jon K]

Subframe reinforcement plates are a common E36 upgrade - they have to be welded in. There are numerous write ups all over the place. I helped a friend do it once - I will never do it again.