Need Z3 body strut brace assistance/input

I'm talking with a fabricator that already makes sturdy-looking STBs for other BMW models. I opened talks concerning braces specifically for the MZ3s but he would prefer to make one brace for all models, but from what I gather the 1.9 models may be SOL under this plan, due to a different requirement (please correct me if I'm wrong).

Ideally, if there are any 'festers in the Simi Valley area, you could be an R&D vehicle for the shop. This would (obviously) be the preferred method for him and us. Please PM me if applicable and interested.

The bars are 1 piece design, and as I said very rigid in appearance. The most likely applicable model I have seen so far is this (for an E36 M3 with ASC/traction):

What I would like to gather is examples of the board's favorite STBs currently available, and this gentleman may obtain one for fitment. I know the Strong Strut is a perennial fav, and Cosmo Racing's bar is used by a few on here. Any others out there that you guys use and like, or specific fitment trouble reports/issues you could site would be great.

Personally, I think these bars would be a killer addition to the community of Z3ers. He already does bars in alloy and steel, and I've seen them in brushed alloy, red, blue, and black coated.

Thanks for any input, and I really hope we can put this together for those of us yet to find a front STB solution. BTW, I have no connection to this person, other than a potential and hopeful customer.

Reply » Need Z3 body strut brace assistance/input

If he wants to donate a STB with his logo on it to my 99' Z3 2.3 I will gladly let all who see it know where I got it from. I live in the S.Bay but I am always one the west side and there are a lot of Z's there. Would gladly come to Simi and be the test guinea pig.

Reply » Need Z3 body strut brace assistance/input

Thanks for the PMs so far, guys! From posts on here, and what I have seen at HC, it looks like the popular STBs are Strong Strut, Dinan, and Cosmo/Eibach/RD (all very similar design). I'm hoping that some of our brethren on here have some fruitful communications with the fabricator and we get something turned out for testing soon. I'll keep y'all in the loop!

Reply » Need Z3 body strut brace assistance/input

Well, it looks like things are going swimmingly with this project so far. Our own wyiel has been in contact with John (the fabricator) and I hope to have some pics soon of preliminary work completed, based on the measurements and feedback wyiel was able to give.

I think I'm correct in saying that one bar will suffice for all models of car except for the 1.9, as long as it's based on the MZ3 (and I think the S54). Does this sound right to you guys? He would really prefer to only make one model bar, but may make two if there is interest. Obviously, I'm trying to provide him with the max applicability from the get-go.

Two main things I really would like to get some feedback on from you guys that may be interested in obtaining ANY STB in the future:
1. What material would you want, steel or alloy? Steel will be the choice for max chassis rigidity, but alloy will be prettier.

2. What finish are you guys going to want? Polish, brushed, bead blasted, paint, anodize, wrinkle finish, etc?

Thanks to those that have assisted so far, and please provide some info/input here if you have it.

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