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Bilstein PSS9 for 1996-99 BMW E36 M3


Introduction

After a long wait, these are back in production! Stock on these is limited, so please call before ordering to verify that they are still available.

The Bilstein B16 PSS9 (and PSS10) kit is a race inspired system, providing the ultimate in high performance tuning. The manually adjustable monotube gas shock absorbers feature 9 or 10-stage precise compressing and rebound settings, from comfort to competition.

The threaded body allows accurate adjustability of the front and rear progressive springs to achieve the vehicle ride height (30mm to 50mm), center of gravity and level of performance handling desired. Bilstein's patented Triple-C-Technology coating ensures long-lasting resistance to corrosion.

Vorshlag tried out this E36 BMW PSS9 kit on tester Adam F's BMW 325i (shown above) and we all really liked the ride, handling and quality of the parts. Adam loved the set-up and has been using the PSS9 kit on the street and on race tracks across Texas, running HPDE events. As he progresses we will likely upgrade the springs to a straight 60mm coilover style with firmer spring rates.

This test car was a 325i, and technically there is a different PSS9 kit made for the "non-M" E36. Call for details

The ride quality is without compromise and belongs on both daily driven and entry level HPDE track cars alike, with the included Bilstein springs. The ride height adjustment range is large and it is capable of the lowered height shown above as well as taller ride heights for those that need to drive in snow or on gravel roads. The beefy inverted Bilstein struts are VERY STRONG and can work for many forms of motorsport as well on a variety of road types, and with the twist of the adjuster knob can help you dial in your preferred ride and handling.

This PSS9 kit listed here is made for the 1996-99 BMW M3 for track and street use

We suggest adding Vorshlag camber plates for any track use, which gives more front alignment adjustment and saves tire wear on track. Many of the various options available with the basic PSS9 kit are shown in the pictures and drop-downs below.

Key Features

  • Monotube shocks and struts
  • 9-stage precise compressing and rebound settings (PSS9) through a single knob
  • Threaded Body for Accurate Adjustability
  • Front and Rear Progressive Springs
  • Bilstein's Patented Triple-C-Technology Coating for Long Lasting Corrosion Re
  • Front Lowering Range: 30-40mm
  • Rear Lowering Range: 30-40mm
  • This kit is made to fit the OEM upper spring perch, strut top mount and swaybar end links of a 1996-99 BMW M3
  • Vorshlag can convert this kit to work with a 1995 M3 with the optional camber plates below.
  • This kit can also fit or a 1992-1998 "non-M" E36 (318, 325, 328) with the plates + new end links for the front swaybar. See options below.
  • Note: This kit is preferred over the non-M specific PSS kit, which does not have the M3 style swaybar bracket on the strut housing.
  • Please CALL VORSHLAG if you have any questions about this kit's use on your E36


Choose your options

Choose the appropriate options and model alterations from the drop down menus below. These options will affect the final price as shown for each option. All optional packages and parts include significant discounts when purchased with shocks rather than buying the parts separately.

CAMBER PLATES : We highly recommend Vorshlag camber plates be used with Bilstein strut kits, but the shocks can be used with the OEM upper strut mount for racers on an extreme budget and/or where class rules do not allow an upper camber plate (such as SCCA Stock Class). Easily adjust camber track side with Vorshlag camber/caster plates. Over-sized spherical bearings are designed to withstand the rigors of street and track abuse. All components are plated for maximum corrosion resistance and long life. Please see the product entries on this website for more information about the Vorshlag camber plates and perches. Ordering this option includes the associated Vorshlag upper spring perches made to work with these plates.

   The optional Vorshlag camber plates are required for use on 1995 M3 or 1992-1998 E36 318, 325 or 328 models. Call Vorshlag for more details


REAR SHOCK MOUNTS : Optional Rear Shock Mounts include the Vorshlag Spherical design or Heavy Duty rubber E46 M3 style. We recommend  the spherical RSMs for most users that see any competition use, such as autocross or track events. If the car is a daily driven vehicle only and/or the user is worried about bad roads and any additional NVH transmitted through a rear spherical mount, then choose the HD rubber style instead. The advantage to spherical RSMs is their ability to transmit reactions to shock forces instantly and direct - something that shows up on a shock dyno plot.

 

  

 VORSHLAG RSM REINFORCEMENT KIT : Many BMW models are prone to cracks near the rear, upper shock mount bolt holes from both street/track use with higher cornering loads (and higher damper forces) as well as normal street use over extended time periods. Bolt these steel reinforcement plates on top of the rear shock tower sheet metal to strengthen this known weak area and prevent these cracks. Can be used with OEM style rubber RSMs or spherical RSMs. Can be bolted or welded in place. To install just place above the shock tower, underneath the RSM top nuts, as shown below - takes mere minutes to install.

 


SIGNATURE DELIVERY : Orders over $2400 require signature delivery. Please plan on that when ordering.