Hi All,
Recently I have had increasing difficulty in obtaining not only BMW, but also pattern, parts which need replacing based purely on age.
In particular rubber suspension items.
A frustrating example. My Z1 has the original alloy rear end I have been replacing as many rubber components as possible. For over a year now BMW have had no availability of the stabiliser bushes (Part 33551135720). Even amongst the suppliers of so called OEM parts cannot produce the correct item.
Most of the parts people claiming to have the above numbered 14mm bush do NOT have it. The majority of diagrams (pinched from RealOEM) show in fact the later rear stabiliser which has a different part number!
The only option which is available appears to be the Powerflex item. I really do not want to use these on the old girl. It can only do harm to stiffen any suspension element on the Z1. Flex and shock to the chassis and bodywork must be undesirable.
Even some of my German connections have been unable to turn up a parts source.
This part is not unique to the Z1 it was also fitted to the 318i E36 and an early Z3, so you might imagine someone might produce a pattern part.
Anyone else had problems?
Pat
Parts Availability
Re: Parts Availability
I think we should be ok for rubber parts shared with other contemporary BMW models, especially the E30. Fingers crossed
I ordered two replacement rubber bump stops and plastic sleeves for the front dampers yesterday which are in stock in the UK. Not sure if it is an individual dealer decision but North Oxford BMW were happy for me to pay for the parts upon collection next week. The dealers at MK and Tring want cash up front and no refunds or parts return. Maybe I should check my credit reference !!
I also enquired about the supply of the rubber door belts, a pretty essential item for a Z1. They are now £192 each but no UK or German stock and no indication as when they will be available. Perhaps the time has come for Z1 specialists such as Potti's to source an alternative supply using modern materials.
I ordered two replacement rubber bump stops and plastic sleeves for the front dampers yesterday which are in stock in the UK. Not sure if it is an individual dealer decision but North Oxford BMW were happy for me to pay for the parts upon collection next week. The dealers at MK and Tring want cash up front and no refunds or parts return. Maybe I should check my credit reference !!
I also enquired about the supply of the rubber door belts, a pretty essential item for a Z1. They are now £192 each but no UK or German stock and no indication as when they will be available. Perhaps the time has come for Z1 specialists such as Potti's to source an alternative supply using modern materials.
