Quote Originally Posted by Steve N
I want to get the front end swapped out before winter gets here. I have decided to go with the M5 springs and 3mm pads but what strut insert are people using? Also, is BMA a good source for the OEM parts or should I stick to a dealer? My 190k front end is getting a bit worn:-)

Thanks.
I was also looking into the M5 springs or M-Tech springs for my Touring but thought the drop wasn't enough. I read somewhere that the M5 springs are even less of a drop because they are firmer because the M5 engine is heavier than the 2.5 in our cars. I decided that rather than take a chance using 3mm pads and the M-tech or M5 springs I would get springs with more of a drop and just use new stock upper and lower spring pads to offset that just a bit. I chose the H&R Touring springs for the self-leveling supension, which I have, and used just the front springs initially to see how it looked. The self leveling suspension seemed to have compensated for the lower front end by itself and the results are what I was hoping for. There is a slight rake but it has a very nice look to it with the bigger 18" rims.

Paul L