[Alias1431]

Is it even possible to add an extra strut like the X3M?

[teaston]

It looks like it would fit, but would possibly need to be removed to change or top up engine oil!

I think there was already a thread about this.

[Alias1431]

This one?

https://x3.xbimmers.com/forums/showt...ighlight=strut

[383vett]

Looks like the same bar would work. The cover on the second motor is much lower.

[spta97]

I can't speak for the M40i (I have an X3MC), but I installed an aftermarket strut brace on an old Maxima I had.

It made a very noticeable difference in handling (much flatter in corners) and did not hurt ride comfort at all.

If you can fit it, I would get it and give it a shot. Some markets have the OEM strut brace in carbon fiber ($$$$!) which some owners have considered getting. So maybe you can find the aluminum one from an X3M member who is selling?

[Alias1431]

Originally Posted by 383vett

Looks like the same bar would work. The cover on the second motor is much lower.

That's what I'm thinking. Would love a view of the mounting points. They look shrink-wrapped, or something. Maybe a nice BMW Tech could snag some supplemental data points for me. :-)

[spta97]

Originally Posted by Alias1431

That's what I'm thinking. Would love a view of the mounting points. They look shrink-wrapped, or something. Maybe a nice BMW Tech could snag some supplemental data points for me. :-)

Check this:
https://www.newtis.info/tisv2/a/en/f...nts/1VneF22DhB

I can snag a pic of mine if interested.

[Alias1431]

Oh wow, that's interesting. Looks like it just pops on where those nuts are. Looks super easy.

[spta97]

Originally Posted by Alias1431

Oh wow, that's interesting. Looks like it just pops on where those nuts are. Looks super easy.

The bolts are hidden under a plastic cover on the X3M. Assuming those same bolts are on the M40i it should be easy.

[freshxdough]

There's a company that makes a strut brace for the M40i. It doesn't bolt on the actual top of the struts though. It bolts to the front radiator support and is a big metal flat piece that connects everything together

[383vett]

Originally Posted by Alias1431

That's what I'm thinking. Would love a view of the mounting points. They look shrink-wrapped, or something. Maybe a nice BMW Tech could snag some supplemental data points for me. :-)

I'm sure the mounting points would be the same. An X3 is an X3 if it's the same year. They aren't going to change the chassis. You will probably need 3 longer bolts per side and I bet you're good to go.

[newsmarr]

The 2 struts look different + they are painted.

[AlexFL]

Here is a CF strut brace in X3M.

[freshxdough]

Originally Posted by 383vett

I'm sure the mounting points would be the same. An X3 is an X3 if it's the same year. They aren't going to change the chassis. You will probably need 3 longer bolts per side and I bet you're good to go.

Depending on options the bolt holes for the carbon strut brace for the X3M may not be pre threaded for the X3 M40i vehicles. I've seen vehicles with different options not have holes threaded due to the fact that it won't be getting that feature. Not sure if it's the case but it might be like that

[Alias1431]

Well if any X3M owner wants to upgrade their strut, I'm down to experiment.

No homo.

[teaston]

Originally Posted by freshxdough

Depending on options the bolt holes for the carbon strut brace for the X3M may not be pre threaded for the X3 M40i vehicles. I've seen vehicles with different options not have holes threaded due to the fact that it won't be getting that feature. Not sure if it's the case but it might be like that

It uses the strut top mount bolts by the looks of it.

[spta97]

Originally Posted by teaston

It uses the strut top mount bolts by the looks of it.

It’s hard to tell because it is under a plastic trim piece. But that would make sense as that is where most mount.

[teaston]

Actually looks like it doesn't mount to the strut top mounts, here's mine:

[suby01]

And does anyone know or think that the X3M strut bar will clear the M40i engine cover?

[spta97]

From the pics in the original post it looks like it will easily clear. How much room between the top engine cover and the top of the engine compartment do you have?

It’s only maybe 3/4”-1” in thickness.

[suby01]

Originally Posted by spta97

From the pics in the original post it looks like it will easily clear. How much room between the top engine cover and the top of the engine compartment do you have?

It’s only maybe 3/4”-1” in thickness.

Lol thats like asking when the lightbulb turns off when you close the fridge door. Peek in there. Haha. Actually let me check.

[suby01]

I measured from the bolts to the top of the rubber trim which I guess touches the hood when its closed. And then from the top of the engine cover.
Is the X3M engine sitting higher in the engine bay? Because if not then the strut bar will not clear out engine cover since the X3M has an indent in the cover.