New Front springs - may have screwed up
Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: Apr 2016
Posts: 889
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From: Southern Illinois
, 2023 BMW X4, 1991 190E
New Front springs - may have screwed up
Im having new front springs put on my 1991 2.3 190E. I purchased Lesjofors off eBay which said they fit 190E My mechanic is having a very difficult time compressing the springs.After getting one side installed it seems to sit a little higher. I went back and check the specs on the springs and they fit all 190Es to include diesels Could that be the problem. The mechanic is highly experience and the strength of the springs is causing him problems. He check the length and its the same.
I will probably just let him install the other side since it would be too difficult to remove the prior installed spring and install a different springs. Have to wait and see how it will look.
I did push down on the side with the newly installed spring and it was not too firm..
I will probably just let him install the other side since it would be too difficult to remove the prior installed spring and install a different springs. Have to wait and see how it will look.
I did push down on the side with the newly installed spring and it was not too firm..
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2016
Posts: 1,369
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From: SF Bay Area, CA
190E 2.6L 1989, 190E 2.6L 1988, BMW 535dXdrive 2014, BMW 428i 2015
Even if you had installed Mercedes springs, remember that there are many factors that effect the ride height:
(1) Spring rubber pads (18mm, 13mm, 8mm)
(2) Engine size
(3) Transmission (manual is lighter than auto)
(4) Manual or auto seats (manual seats are lighter)
(5) Other options ?
It could be that your car is lighter.
How high is it sitting?
(1) Spring rubber pads (18mm, 13mm, 8mm)
(2) Engine size
(3) Transmission (manual is lighter than auto)
(4) Manual or auto seats (manual seats are lighter)
(5) Other options ?
It could be that your car is lighter.
How high is it sitting?
Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: Apr 2016
Posts: 889
Likes: 148
From: Southern Illinois
, 2023 BMW X4, 1991 190E
Have not measured it yet. only one side has the new springs and shop/struts installed . Will let you know when he completes the other side. Still in shop.
thanks
thanks
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2016
Posts: 1,369
Likes: 195
From: SF Bay Area, CA
190E 2.6L 1989, 190E 2.6L 1988, BMW 535dXdrive 2014, BMW 428i 2015
After you install the other side, drive the car for a week or two to let the suspension completely settle before taking further action.
You may end up having to use thinner pads or even cut the springs up to a turn at some point.
You may end up having to use thinner pads or even cut the springs up to a turn at some point.
Junior Member
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 48
Likes: 6
190e 2.3-16
those guys above are absolutely right! if you think its too high get a #1 or shorter height spring pad from parts house or stealership
one thing got to say is that spring install is difficult because the guy is using the wrong tool! ive got a klann or copy of the factory service its a 2plate style and a central shaft that compresses from spring ID from bottom of control arms. theres probably cheapo big rock candy mountain brand copies of a copy on ebay or scamazon that could be had for a fraction these days. think bmw tool for the rears look similar to this one and have the similar style as one used on american muscles cars.
one thing got to say is that spring install is difficult because the guy is using the wrong tool! ive got a klann or copy of the factory service its a 2plate style and a central shaft that compresses from spring ID from bottom of control arms. theres probably cheapo big rock candy mountain brand copies of a copy on ebay or scamazon that could be had for a fraction these days. think bmw tool for the rears look similar to this one and have the similar style as one used on american muscles cars.
I’m going to borrow that.
