Front Axle

System Components

Front Axle
The front axle of the E46 M3 is designed as a single-joint spring strut front axle.

The basic characteristics of the axle resemble those of the M3 predecessor.

The special feature of the E46 M3 front axle is the rigid link of the running gear components to the body.

The E46 M3 "specific" modified components are:
- Front axle mount
- Aluminum control arm frame
- Aluminum thrust zone
- Larger track width (1508 mm)
- Stabilizer bar
- Steering (track rod length changed)
- Steering knuckle
- Wheel bearings
- Front axle carrier
- Modified elastokinematics (rubber mounts and joints)

Mount
The spring and damper are insulated from each other. This arrangement improves the feel of the road surface conditions through the steering wheel.
Additional damping (rubber) has been inserted between the spring and damper mounting.
The geometric layout (offset center) of the front axle mount makes it possible to increase the caster angle.

The offset mount center can be seen at the right.




A locating bolt (arrow) can be removed and the upper mount bolt holes in the strut tower are slotted to allow the mount to be re-positioned for minimum camber adjustment.

Thrust Zone
The rigid connection of the suspension components to the body is further assisted by the transversely rigid thrust zone.
The thrust zone is made of aluminum and is bolted to the control arm joints, front axle carrier and the rear control arm mounts.


Aluminum Control Arm
The forged aluminum control arm of the E46 M3 front axle is a specific development of BMW M.

Compared to the control arm of the E36 M3, the weight has been reduced by 40%. Its design incorporates specific deformation characteristics.

Suspension and Damping
The spring rate of the front springs on the E46 M3 has been increased as compared to the 3 series E46.

The shock absorbers are twin-tube gas pressure dampers. The connection of the stabilizer support is new.

Stabilizer Bar: The front stabilizer bar is 26 mm in diameter. The stabilizer links have been adopted from the E46/2 (standard 3 series).

Wheel Carriers and Wheel Bearings: The wheel carriers on the M3 front axle are specific. The mount for the brake caliper has been modified compared to the E46/2 (standard 3 series). The wheel bearings have been modified for higher loads. A drive pin for the brake disc is located on the wheel hub.