I am looking for someone who has tracked thier 550i and who has recommendations for suspension modifications. Thanks

 

RichardinNC did once. He wrote a discertation about it a few months ago. It was too long to read, but I believe he said it did quite well. Posted pictures, too.

 

http://forums.e60.net/index.php?showtopic=...mp;#entry500954

Here is the link to the thread where two guys took 550i's on the track (I've dreamed of tracking mine, but would be a bit nervous and don't really know where I can do it in the DC/Norther VA area.

 

ive trackd my 545 and did good for my 1st time, it was a blast. I do not have any suspension mods only m5 wheels and exhaust

 

Many times .
And solutions are in my signature (brakes+LSD)
Good luck!

 

I highly recommend Dinan Stage 2 suspension (by Koni). In my opinion, it's one of the best mods for the 5er. Not to say the stock suspension is bad, far from it but Dinan suspension takes it to another level. The ride is still very comfortable, handling is quick and corner is awesome.

I will post a more comprehensive review later.

Cost: $1800 (parts) + $700 (labor)

 

Do a search on Richard in NC's track time at VIR. It includes some pics, but better than that a link to about a 10-min video from inside his car for about 8 laps or so. You can get a sense of handling of a stock 550i (I think it's stock, anyway). Very entertaining and alluring,
Cal

 

I was quite impressed with the stock 550i on track. The performance, handling, and braking where all fine with no issues. Although obviously it's no light weight M3. Here is a link to my write up: 550i at VIR. See post #11 for my comments. In short, the brakes were fine with no fade, the handling was good once you learned to set the car and be smooth, and the performance suprised a lot of sports cars (Boxter, older 911s, etc).

Here are some pictures I purchased from a pro photog at the track: 550i VIR pics. Note how flat it handles with the ARS.

Here is a link to that video:

 

I took mine out last summer. There was a Dinan 545 and a stock 550 sport in my group. The Dinan and I were about equal through corners and were faster than the 550. The extra power of both the V8 cars was obvious down the straights -- I came away wanting more power. Overall the Dinan 545 was lapping faster than I was, but I was faster than the 550 (I think he had run flats).

I didn't have any problem with my brakes, even with the smaller 6 cyl discs, but bigger brakes are certainly better. Dealer had just installed new pads all around and I had fresh ATE racing fluid.

There was also an E60 M5 in our group and I passed him several times -- so there is a lot more to it than the car!

 

If you are talking about doing some serious tracking, not just 1 or 2 times a year. Just get a smaller car, you will have so much more fun. Plus you won't need to worry if you go off the track.