10-13-2020, 11:27 AM | #1 |
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Question about Thrust Arm
So I took my F30 (328xi) in to Brooklyn BMW for scheduled maintenance...I purchased this vehicle with a CPO a few years back and still had the maintenance warranty on it so a vehicle check/diag is included in the visit.
However, upon retrieval, I was given an inspection report that pointed out a few things: 1. I need wheel alignment. 2. The thrust arms are leaking. As far as the wheel alignment, I knew this was probably necessary, as I took an extremely long drive upstate and through New England a few weeks ago and needless to say I hit a few bumps and there is a noticeable drift. However, according to the mechanic the thrust arms are "leaking". I wasn't aware these things could leak but based on the pic they sent me, it does in fact look like it's leaking some sort of fluid. Dealership says it's $1100 for this (yikes) so immediately I recalled reading posts (while lurking of course) that suggested ordering the parts myself and then taking it to trusted mechanic would be far better for my pockets. I've been looking on tunersport and FCP for the parts but I'm kind of confused on what to order exactly, wondering if anyone can help: https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw...-kit-lemforder OR https://www.turnermotorsport.com/p-5...-control-arms/ Or...am I just completely wrong all around? And yes I'm a noob...but I figured this is a decent place to get a second opinion. Any advice would be appreciated. |
10-13-2020, 12:02 PM | #2 |
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I would definitely upgrade them if they need replacing. Lots of info on how much of a difference they make.
Millway is another great option (probably the route I'll be going eventually) https://www.millway.se/front-control...0-x-drive.html
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10-13-2020, 01:34 PM | #3 |
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The OE thrust arm bushing is a hydraulic bushing that contains fluid to help dampen noise/vibrations. It is quite common that they fail and fluid begins to leak out after ~50k miles.
Lemforder is an OE manufacturer of the arms, so the first set you linked would be an OE replacement. Note that xdrive thrust arms differ from RWD--make sure you get the right ones. The lower control arms do not have the same type of hydraulic bushing, so you are probably fine replacing only the thrust arms unless inspection shows wear specifically on the LCA bushing or ball joint. As pauli18c noted, upgrading the thrust arms to a non-hydraulic bushing can improve steering response at the expense of some NVH. Monoball bushings seem to be the best rated option around here. Millway and VAC Motorsport both make monoball options. |
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10-13-2020, 02:49 PM | #4 | |
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Quote:
Interesting So the entire control arm doesn't necessarily need to be replaced, just the "bushing"? FYI, here's what the BMW tech showed me Last edited by Shisou; 10-13-2020 at 02:55 PM.. |
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10-13-2020, 03:07 PM | #5 | ||
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10-13-2020, 04:26 PM | #6 |
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Yep, only the bushing needs to be replaced. Depending on the shop rate to press out/in bushings, it may be the same price or cheaper to just get new Lemforder arms w/ bushing pre-installed though (and as a bonus you get a new ball joint on the wheel carrier end).
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10-13-2020, 05:12 PM | #7 |
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I will add that these are a pretty easy DIY too if you are inclined to do so. Or have a friend who is and you buy some tacos and beer.
I swapped on Turner mono ball thrust arms my self and am happy with the improved steering response. They did add a fair amount new vibrations and rattles to my car when on rough pavement though. I live with it or turn the music up. The steering improvement was worth it to me. If that isn't something you care about, then just buy some OE replacements and get and independent shop to put them on for you. |
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10-13-2020, 06:02 PM | #8 | |
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10-14-2020, 12:03 AM | #9 |
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I did the turner motorsports monoball arms and it made a big difference in steering feel.
Couple notes about my experience: Turner sent the wrong size bolts for my car ('17 F32)- my OEM bolts went through harmonic weights that added to the length of them Also my passenger side was a PITA to do- the battery cable goes right across the bolt head for the bushing.
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