[SMazza]

Hello all,

I recently replaced front struts and tires, and had a 4-wheel alignment done. The shop mechanic said the best he could do on rear camber was -2.6 and -2.5 (see attached before-and-after printout). He suggested a "camber kit" might need to be installed if the current alignment isn't acceptable.

The car has pretty high miles (173k?). The rear shocks are still original (though I plan to change them within the next year). The springs are original all around.

I have attached a few pictures of the car's stance and the rear camber bolts. I think it might be riding a tad low in the rear. Would worn shock mounts cause this? Can anyone see anything else amiss back here? (Please look past the subframe rust; I hope to correct that when I replace the rear shocks.)

(Also note that I ended up using non-sport strut mounts in the front, because I didn't realize there was a difference when I ordered the parts. So the front may be sitting a few millimeters higher than stock.)

Do you think replacing the rear shocks would bring camber back into a better range? Or is that irrelevant?

Or, does anyone know what "camber kit" is available for the rear of this car?

Or is there likely some other part worn out? (The car just had state safety inspection, and I would be surprised if the mechanic missed a chance to sell me new suspension links.)

View post on imgur.com

[335i54n]

ride height and camber are way off, i would say you need a new subframe and rear overhaul

[SMazza]

Originally Posted by 335i54n

ride height and camber are way off, i would say you need a new subframe and rear overhaul

Okay, but I already know the camber is off, and "replace everything" isn't very realistic.

As I think about it, I had some tools in the trunk when I dropped it off at the mechanic. That may have impacted the camber a bit?

[mattandre]

Possibly
That may have impacted the camber
Do update us on your result

[wrevilo]

Another option is that some of the bushes in the subframe or suspension arms could be worn. For example, I recently changed the bushes in the subframe end of the large lower suspension arm, as you have pictured. This has made a big difference to evening out the ride height at the rear of my car from side to side. It also allowed easy alignment to spec. Note I have replaced nearly every suspension component on my car!

[SMazza]

Hmm, thanks. I think I'm going to replace the shocks and shock mounts and see how it sits at that point.

And I will wire-brush and Scotchbrite as much rust as I can off the subframe, and cover it with some zinc paint or POR-15.

I honestly like the idea of dropping the subframe, refinishing all the rust, and replacing *all* the bushings ... but that would be a weeks-long project for me, and I would end up owning like 2 or 3 special tools at the end. I need to manage my workload (and cashflow) at the moment.

Maaaaaaaybe I will try replacing the trailing arm and rollover strut bushings / "ball joint" ... but that looks like a bear without the expensive press tool - or even with it.