Tokico ILK suspenion kit for e36? I have questions!

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anniston, al
#1
Is there anyone on here that has the Tokico ILK suspension on their e36 325i? In the next 2 weeks I am buying some type of suspension setup for less than 600-700 bucks...I have found some deals for the Tokico setup around my range but need some info...How much does it drop the car? Has anyone ever ridden in a car equipped with this setup? Is it pretty firm etc? I am opting for the 5 way adjustables if I get it. I just cant afford more than 600-700 and want something good and this setup looks good...Please speak up if you have any suggestions!
 
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Desert Southwest
#2
I purchased a suspension kit for my e30 with adjustable Tokico struts and shocks. They lasted about two weeks before they bottomed out and busted. Exchanged them for Bilstein Sports and never looked back.

That was several years ago, hopefully they are making a better product now.
 
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Location
Palos Verdes Estates, CA
#3
I have the Tokico Illuminas on my car. I didnt get the springs - I heard they were junk. I went ahead and got the eibach pro kit to match.

I've gone about 3-4k miles on them so far, no problems whatsoever. There is a very big difference between full soft and full hard. My car is now nicely lowered, not too low but a very nice compromise. About 2 fingers in front, rear is completely tucked. The ride is very compliant on full soft - some people cant even tell I'm on aftermarket suspension. I use my car to commute around LA so I've seen my fair share of potholes. Lifetime warranty and the company is located in LA too. Plus, my moms coworker is the co-owners wife. Too bad she couldnt hook it up....GRRRR.

I went to the track with them and like an idiot, i got the numbers mixed up and put it on full soft. Yet the car handled like a dream! I was outrunning s2000s, rsx type S's, and even a WRX. Its really a good deal compared to the Koni SAs - they cost a LOT more and have the same functions and features.

I know its weird to put japanese parts on a euro german car, but it was an affordable solution for me. My only grip - the adjusting mechanism is quite flimsy. Its just these lil plastic piece on top that you turn with a screwdriver. Plus, in the rears, you'll need to remove the speakers everytime you wanna adjust them. Fronts are really easy.
 

Sam

New Member
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Location
Berkeley, CA
#4
I've been looking into the same thing. You can find H&R springs with Bilstein Sports for $658. at www.bmpdesign.com/index.shtml. Also, a Bilstein BTS kit at www.bimmerparts.com for $601. I don't know who makes the springs for the BTS kit but it lowers the car about the same amount. I've heard conflicting info on whether lowering the car 1.5 inches is going to make a camber adjustment necessary. If it does then I guess you have to get a camber kit as well since camber is not adjustable on the E36.

A Bilstein distributer has told me that the only difference between the Sport struts and the Heavy Duty is the length - same dampening. I've also read that the Sports have 30% more dampening. Anyone know which is right?

Handling wise, how much difference do struts and -1.5" springs make compared to struts and stock springs?
 
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Location
Palos Verdes Estates, CA
#5
HD and Sport is different in that HD is meant for use with stock springs. however, if you lower the car with lowering springs, you NEED the sport shocks to match. They do have the same dampening, but different heights for different ride heights.

My car handles EONS better than stock. It makes a HUGE difference. It brings a smile to drive my car everytime now!

As for camber kits - if you lower it excessively, yes you will need them. I dropped only 1.3" so mine should be fine.
 


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