Need Help with 1990 E34 525 Steering Suspension.

[coastdog]

Last year I bought a 1990 525 and have some gripes with the steering. It came lowered with new tires on 18" AC Schnitzer wheels. From the start the car pulled to the right, so I took it to a local alignment shop (they said it was fine). Another annoying month later I found another shop (Fountain Tire). This time I was told the front was OK, but the rear was out as a result of the lowering springs and the rear alignment was already maxed out. So, bought a camber kit for the rear and they did the install. After much $$$ it was better, but ... it still wants to wander to the right. It almost seems it's overly sensitive to the crown or slope of the pavement. I have to consciously correct to keep it in the center of the lane. I drive my son's '88 E30 and it tracks straight and true. What's wrong with my ride?

[Shane K]

Have you checked the thrust rod bushings? Lowering the car and putting bigger wheels on can wear them out prematurely. Mine are in bad shape and I am having the same issues as you are. If that is the issue, upgrade to M5 bushings.

[woods]

Originally Posted by coastdog Last year I bought a 1990 525 and have some gripes with the steering. It came lowered with new tires on 18" AC Schnitzer wheels. From the start the car pulled to the right, so I took it to a local alignment shop (they said it was fine). Another annoying month later I found another shop (Fountain Tire). This time I was told the front was OK, but the rear was out as a result of the lowering springs and the rear alignment was already maxed out. So, bought a camber kit for the rear and they did the install. After much $$$ it was better, but ... it still wants to wander to the right. It almost seems it's overly sensitive to the crown or slope of the pavement. I have to consciously correct to keep it in the center of the lane. I drive my son's '88 E30 and it tracks straight and true. What's wrong with my ride?

Tramlining is common with larger width tires on the E34 and camber has little effect on it. Changes in toe angle are usually to blame.

Rear self-steer can be caused by worn rear subframe bushings which will affect the toe angle in back. If you hear a clunk from the back when suddenly letting off the throttle - it's a good bet they're shot.

Check all of the front balljoints and bushings - control arms, thrust arms, tie rods and idler arm. They're all suspect on higher mileage cars.

[coastdog]

Just got the car up on the hoist yesterday and control arm bushings are completely shot. Explains the rattle up front and the vague steering too. The rear looks fine, for now ...

Thanks for the advise, guys.

[smithwison4]

Instead of going to any local alignment shop it is advisable to go your particular car showroom and consult the dealer.

[Jono-vision]

Not if there are shops that are qualified to work euro imports, merc's, Bimmer's VW, etc...I know a shop that can anything alignment wise and they are not "stealership" lol And I mean anything!