DESCRIPTION
Install STRONG-STRUT strut tower reinforcement brace.
PARTS NEEDED
1 - STRONG-STRUT TOWER BRACE
(STRONG-STRUT $365)
TOOLS NEEDED
13mm Socket
Ratchet Wrench
6mm Hex Key
Torque Wrench (recommended)
INSTALLATION
Installing a strut tower brace has been proven to stiffen the suspension of most unibody cars like the E46 (BMW had a reason to include one on
the M3). By connecting the
strut towers with a stiff brace, it creates a box-like structure with the struts, lower subframe, and the brace itself. This results
in a more responsive suspension and better turn-in. Strut tower braces are made for the front and rear strut tower, but this Strong-Strut
is designed for the front of the car. Installation is very simple, so I will briefly cover the steps and include photos of the final product.
I apologize for the dirty engine bay, its dusty in Arizona!
1. Park the car on a level surface and set the parking brake.
2. Using a 13mm socket and ratchet, remove the 3 nuts on both strut towers (all 6 nuts).
3. Lay the two ends of the strut brace over the bolts and replace the nuts, but do not tighten yet. On the passenger side, you may
have to lift up on the battery terminal to slip the brace end under the terminal.
NOTE:You may notice that the strut bolts do not point directly up and may angle away from the centerline of the strut, preventing
the brace ends from going over them. In this case, place a small block of wood against the bolt and *gently* tap with a hammer. They
will straighten up pretty easily.
4. Once the ends are in place, install the strut brace bar and line up the holes on either end and fasten the bar to the ends with
the supplied hex bolts.
5. Once the hex bolts are tight, tighten to 18 ft-lbs.
Simple as that, you are done... go drive!
