Quick and inexpensive handling upgrade - The Unofficial BMW M5 Messageboard (m5board.com)

basil · 4th November 2001, 06:22

As I was just having a romp around some tight curves I thought that some of you might like to dial out some of the understeer in the way that I've done it on my 540/6 which is to install a stiffer rear swaybar. I know this is so obvious but it seems we all talk about complete suspension upgrades and not such a simple and easy modification by itself. And inexpensive as well.

I've put my M5 suspension and brakes on my 540 (Dinanized the M). For a while I still used the stock 540 sport bars so when I got around to installing the M5 front and Dinan rear (full tight) bars the handling really changed for the better. I don't know how significant a change it will be moving straight from an M5 rear bar to a stiffer one but I would suspect that it would be worthwhile.

My driving style is such that I've ripped an aluminum rear sway bar bracket from each car so for me the stiffer rear bar makes sense. Btw, I use steel brackets now.

Just my two cents.

God, I miss my M

Bart Carter · 4th November 2001, 08:58

basil,

Check "Handling Adjustments" in the Tricks and Tips forum.

basil · 4th November 2001, 09:25

From your tips post: The absolute best way to
evaluate your suspension is using tire temperatures.

Bart, what is a good way to check the tire temperature? Also, how do I interpret the readings?

Thanks

Bart Carter · 4th November 2001, 09:33

basil,

You take tire temps with a pryometer. This is how any racer dials in his suspension. They are hand held and after a run you would take the temps across the tire and see if camber or tire pressures need to be adjusted.

I am trying to get enough time this weekend to put together info on just how to do this. Check back in tips and tricks Sunday night.

basil · 4th November 2001, 09:45

Thanks Bart, I'm looking forward to your info.

Bart Carter · 5th November 2001, 09:28

basil, here you go.

I've posted what I consider is used by most racers. I know it has always worked for me.

You can find it under "Tuning with tire temperatures" on the Tips and Tricks Discussion. Combine this with "Handling Adjustments" and you will have a better understanding of what may work for your car.

basil · 6th November 2001, 02:15

Bart,
Thanks for the effort and information. You add high value to the board. I'll print out your compilations and buy a pyrometer. This is certainly timely for me since I'm headed to Buttonwillow at the end of the month with my driving instructor.

I posted this on the tip forum but thought you'd likely see it here.

Regards,
Basil