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Description

BMW E36 Strut Tower Side Reinforcement Mini, Weld-in Kit

You weld this E36 strut tower side reinforcement in the mini version to the front strut towers of a BMW E36 or E36 Compact. The pressed plates connect the tower to the side of the engine bay, making the body stiffer and stronger at that point. This is the compact version of this reinforcement.

A stiff front end lets your suspension and steering work more precisely. For an E36 that does drift events or track days, or that simply needs a solid base for stiffer shock absorbers, this is a small job with a noticeable result. Especially on an older, high-mileage body, extra support around the towers helps the panels flex less under load.

Key benefits of the E36 strut tower side reinforcement

• Stiffer body around the front strut towers
• Reinforces the panels where the suspension transmits its forces
• Mini version: compact size, little extra weight
• 2 mm S355 steel, stamped and pressed into shape
• Made to be welded in, for a permanent connection
• Weighs only 0.62 kg

Suitable for

BMW 3 Series E36, front

• BMW 3 Series E36
• BMW 3 Series E36 Compact

Technical specifications

• Item number: 0153
• Application: side reinforcement for the front strut tower
• Version: mini
• Material: S355 steel
• Thickness: 2 mm
• Production: stamped and pressed
• Mounting: weld-in
• Weight: 0.62 kg

Installation and delivery

The E36 strut tower side reinforcement has to be welded. First dry-fit the plates against the tower and the side of the engine bay, so that you can see exactly where they go. Then clean the panels back to bare metal, fix the plates in place and weld them in.

Have this work done by someone who is used to body welding. Protect lines and cables in the engine bay against heat and spatter, and treat the seams afterwards with primer and paint or a rust inhibitor. Also disconnect the battery before you start welding, so that the car’s electronics are not damaged. After welding, check that the bonnet and the lines do not touch the plates anywhere.

You will find more reinforcements in our chassis and subframe reinforcements category. If you drive an E46, take a look at the mini side reinforcement for the E46.

Two small plates, and the front of your E36 feels like one solid unit.

Why choose this E36 strut tower side reinforcement?

The E36 is a popular base for drifting and track work, but after all these years the body is no longer as tight as when new. With this mini version you reinforce exactly the spot where the suspension has to put its forces. The size is compact, the steel is strong and once welded in, the plate is there for good. You no longer need to think about it afterwards, not even if you later fit different suspension or a strut brace.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to weld?

Yes. The E36 strut tower side reinforcement is made to be welded into the body.

Does this set fit an E36 Compact?

Yes, the E36 strut tower side reinforcement is suitable for both the E36 and the E36 Compact.

What does mini mean?

Mini is the compact version of this side reinforcement. It adds little weight: the plates weigh 0.62 kg together, so you will not notice it on the scales.

How thick is the steel?

The plates of this E36 strut tower side reinforcement are made of 2 mm S355 steel, stamped and pressed.

Is this reinforcement only for motorsport?

No. A stiffer front end is also pleasant on a road car with sporty suspension. The benefit is greatest for drifting and track days, though, because that is where the load is highest.

Can I combine this with a strut brace?

Yes, a strut brace connects the towers to each other across the top, while these plates reinforce the towers at the side. They complement each other.

Delivery outside the European Union: different shipping costs may apply. Don’t worry: we will email you as soon as possible after your order and agree the shipping with you. You are not committed to anything without your consent.