Top mounts - OEM v Aftermarket

N52 ZED

N52 ZED

Member
 West Midlands
Hi there,

To what’s extent is it always best to stick with OEM parts or move to after market equivalents (price, materials, recommendations, etc)

I’m looking to replace the springs on my E89 and as a result have seen a couple of posts that suggest not reusing the top mounts. Presuming these need to come off to change the springs!

Conversations then ensue about other brands Bilsten etc etc and so I wonder what the rule of thumb might be here.

Thanks.

Not sure I’m getting the posts I’ve read mixed up but I’m not looking to run the car on a track - just road use.

Cheers.
 
I would advise changing the shocks also as there is every chance they are more worn out than the springs.
What mileage is on the car?

I am just getting all the parts to do a full refresh on my 30i and I have gone for Bilstein top mounts courtesy of some good advice from those more knowledgeable on here 😊
 
Ah ok thanks. Also a 30i with 56k on the clock (2011). What shocks did your research end up suggesting? I guess whilst it’s in bits!!!

Thanks for the guidance. Interestingly I too have been recommended Bilstein top mounts although the ones I’ve been shown are Febi Bilstein - not sure if they are one and the same!

Ps: Not sure if it makes a difference but I’ve gone with the Eibach pro-kit springs.
 
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That depends on what have, or rather, want.
Mine is an MSport and I have gone with the Eibach Pro Springs, along with Bilstein B8 shocks.
If yours is an SE (not MSport) then Suplex are recommended by the knowledgeable ones.

Oh and at 56k on a 2011 (same year) I would suggest you replace the shocks.
Bilstein B4 for the SE is the general recommendation.

Be careful, the cost creeps up as you realise you might as well do drop links, anti-roll bar bushes etc while it is in bits 😉
 
Great to hear. Also good to see I’m in good company and thinking along the same lines. (It’s an M Sport as well.)

These toys definitely create a Triggers Broom scenario that’s for sure.
 
If you have an MSport then look into the Bilstein B12 kit as it is known.
Just be sure to have a drink nearby, you will need it!

Before fitting i am already in for something well over £1,200 and I still need to visit the dealership for the one use bolts on various parts...

Still, once done, it should be very good to drive - just in time for the warmer weather! 🙂
 
I would not use the FB version..FB products seem to be a very mixed bag..suggest the Meyle HD version..fwiw
 
B21 said:
I would not use the FB version..FB products seem to be a very mixed bag..suggest the Meyle HD version..fwiw
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I would agree on the Febi Bilstein, but I have gone for the actual Bilstein version.
While confusing to many, they are completely different companies, and the quality of the products is rather different.
Can't argue on the Meyle to be fair, and would have bought it myself if it was in stock. :)
 
t90ark said:
I went for the Bilstein top mount on Bilstein struts. No problems here.
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Fair amount of very negative comments from our Scottish Clan on Febi...albeit E85 parts..but in this case suspect similar..

I did use a FB N20 cam chain kit which was in fact the BMW kit with the BMW marks dremelled off.

The Meyle HD top mounts are physically better than either the OE ones or others I've seen..not FB
 
B21 said:
Fair amount of very negative comments from our Scottish Clan on Febi...albeit E85 parts..but in this case suspect similar..

I did use a FB N20 cam chain kit which was in fact the BMW kit with the BMW marks dremelled off.

The Meyle HD top mounts are physically better than either the OE ones or others I've seen..not FB
Click to expand...
I used Bilstein.... not Febi Bilstein
 
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