diy E36 M3 rear shock mount repair

[mmmancuso]

Hey, folks. I'm really hoping somebody can help me out. I have a 1998 E36 M3 sedan. As typical with that body, the rear shock mount metal has fatigued and cracked. I have been able to secure a rear right shock mount repair panel but I cannot seem to find a left repair panel anywhere through any of the typical parts providers. Does anybody know anyone who might have one? I prefer to have that welded in then have to go the custom welding route. Thank you!

Needed: Shock absorber mount repair panel - Left (driver's) side. Mfg#: 41148169027

 

[PaKiMoNSTeR]

Do you require a whole body in white shock tower or only a separate reinforcement plate? I brought in a Turner Motorsport kit when we built my car. The kit covers all of the mounting areas you would need to cover. If you have this issue on the shock tower you will most likely find the same issues in other areas like the rear subframe mounts.

I think someone on the forum had some of these that they made or also sold kits. Not sure who though.

 

[mmmancuso]

Do you require a whole body in white shock tower or only a separate reinforcement plate? I brought in a Turner Motorsport kit when we built my car. The kit covers all of the mounting areas you would need to cover. If you have this issue on the shock tower you will most likely find the same issues in other areas like the rear subframe mounts.

I think someone on the forum had some of these that they made or also sold kits. Not sure who though.

Thanks, PaKiMoNSTeR. BMW, recognizing that in later years the sheet metal around the E36 rear shock mounts would eventually fail, offered a repair panel. I did originally have reinforcing "rings" put on, but age and use has fatigue the metal beyond the shock opening. The repair panel requires cutting out the existing mount area and welding in the panel. Color is not really important as it is covered by the trunk liner. I've attached a photo of the right side (US passenger side) repair panel. I can't seem to locate a left side.