Easier/cheaper alternative to the M3 rear subframe bushes

[Onehp]

Hi,
Powerflex has inserts that fit inside the cavities of the existing bushes, effectively stiffening them up without the major labour cost of pressing out the old ones and in with the M3 ones.

Marco-Polo at babybmw.net discovered these: topic on babybmw.net

Here are the parts:
Rear subframe front mount insert
http://www.powerflex.co.uk/product-details/Rear+Subframe+Front+Mount+Insert/1891.html
Rear subframe rear mount insert
http://www.powerflex.co.uk/product-details/Rear+Subframe+Rear+Mounting+Insert/1892.html

I don't know where you can buy them, nor do I have any experience with them. Just thought it's to good to not mention it if you didn't do the M3 ones due to cost, or wanted a more reversible solution.

Oh, I'm guessing that in the long run there is a small risk for wear due to internal friction of the insert/bush if used hard, but should be OK for street driving...

[Bmw135er]

You can look at them on power flex's website. They're not really cheaper, but would be less labor intensive. A little lube and they pop right in. I've been waiting for some one to give feedback on them. I already have the M bushings and upper arms/guide rods, which ever you want to call them. I'd love to hear what an improvement the inner bushings on the lower control arms makes. The outer is already a ball joint, but the inner bushing has a lot of deflection under load. Would be an easy way to get an improvement similar to the 1M/M3, with out swapping to the lower arms and shock/spring style of the 1M/M3. Check them out guys...

www.powerflexusa.com

[Bmw135er]

For a more direct link try here for all info

http://store.powerflexusa.com/bmw-e8x-1-series-2008-urethane-bushings-p1203.aspx

[xerox445]

I think I am going to try the inserts out, I really dont want to have to buy or rent that bushing removal tool. Before I saw this, I was thinking about doing the old "window weld" trick.

[Bmw135er]

I've had great luck with their bushings on other cars of mine from E30, E36 as well as E46s. Great bushings, but you'll probably still need the tools to remove the old ones...

[xerox445]

Originally Posted by Bmw135er

I've had great luck with their bushings on other cars of mine from E30, E36 as well as E46s. Great bushings, but you'll probably still need the tools to remove the old ones...

I doubt I need the bushing removal tool to install inserts into the stock 135i rear subframe bushings. But correct me if I am wrong.

[timhatimay]

http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=543295

See this thread on e90 post. Includes impressions/review of the inserts and installation tips. As mentioned there seems to be no need to remove the old bushings and thus, the subframe doesn't need much clearance. Just enough to wiggle the bushing in. It seems like a great alternative, and a better project to tackle DIY. I'm waiting to hear the next update on that thread, and also some others impressions to see if there is a significant improvement with the inserts.

Tim

[Bmw135er]

Originally Posted by xerox445

I doubt I need the bushing removal tool to install inserts into the stock 135i rear subframe bushings. But correct me if I am wrong.

You are absolutely right! I was thinking of the replacement bushings instead of the filler style inserts. I think they'd be a great option instead of getting the tools and lowering the subframe.

[ken1137]

Originally Posted by xerox445

I think I am going to try the inserts out, I really dont want to have to buy or rent that bushing removal tool. Before I saw this, I was thinking about doing the old "window weld" trick.

Did you buy and install the powerflex rear bushing inserts?

[135iiiiii]

+1 I'd also like to know about this. Definitely subscribing

[TT1351]

FWIW it may be easier in the long run to rent the tool and do it right, you will have no regrets. Like my father always said, "do it right the first time".

Fran

[mike the snake]

I read a review of someone who installed these on their 335 (I think). They concluded these were a good alternative, especially if you were doing the job yourself. The rear subframe did not need to be fully dropped, and the labor time was 3-4 hours instead of 6-7, but they also said that if you were paying a shop to do this, you might as well pay for the extra labor and have the actual M3 bushings installed, as you're not saving that much if you're paying a shop to install the inserts.

These DO look like a good alternative. I'm having the M3 bushings installed today, not cheap at around a Grand.

[xerox445]

Originally Posted by ken1137

Did you buy and install the powerflex rear bushing inserts?

I have them, but have yet to have a chance to install them. Note, there are different inserts for manual vs auto cars according to powerflex.

[ken1137]

Originally Posted by xerox445

I have them, but have yet to have a chance to install them. Note, there are different inserts for manual vs auto cars according to powerflex.

Thx...I would be very interested to hear your feedback once they are installed. Good to know about the AT v MT.

[MuNkY6913]

and the verdict is?!?!?!

[bdoooh]

I'm considering this too seeing the ease of install and how little I track my car..

[RimasRS]

I think that's a nice find

[MuNkY6913]

I think I'll search this thread again in the spring and see if anyone has used these yet.