are designed with anti-dive geometry.
This design reduces the normal
tendency for the front of the vehicle to
dive under hard braking.
Control arm position is fixed, with no
adjustment provisions on the control
arms for altering front wheel alignment.
A stabilizer bar mounted to both strut
housings helps to reduce body roll when
cornering.
Front suspension, all wheel drive
For model year 2001, the E46 Sedan
and Sport Wagon are offered with
optional all wheel drive. The all wheel
drive models are known as 325xi or
330xi.
Note:
The internal BMW designation of these
models is E46/16.
The all wheel drive system adds approx.
100 kg (220 lbs.) to the weight of the car.
Weight distribution is largely unaffected
at 52.7% front, 47.3% rear.
The front suspension for all wheel drive
vehicles has been redesigned to provide
clearance for the front axle differential
and drive shafts. All suspension
components are constructed of steel.
The front subframe consists of two
square frame sections welded to two
tubes to form a box structure. Four bolts
(
arrows
) attach it to the undercarriage of
the vehicle.
The steel control arms, smaller than the
aluminum arms used on rear wheel drive
models, attach at the rear to the
subframe. The control arm inner ball
joints are bolted to the subframe. The
hydraulic engine mounts are different
Suspension, Steering and Brakes — General
http://ebahn.bentleypublishers.com/BMW/3/E46/Repair%20Manuals/3...
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Summary of Contents for 1999-2005 M3
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