Ball Joint for BMW 3 Series: Sintered Metal
This ball joint for the BMW 3 Series is specified around sintered metal, which decides how it behaves in service far more than the part name does. We build to a written specification — base material, dimensions, finish and packing — and hold that specification on file so every reorder reproduces the approved piece.
The usual reason a programme changes supplier is not unit price. It is a supplier who changed material without saying so, or lead time that slipped twice before bulk started. Both are specification problems, and both are preventable.
Specification
| Product | Ball Joint |
|---|---|
| Vehicle application | BMW 3 Series |
| Material / finish | Sintered Metal |
| Typical use | Rural Transport |
| MOQ | 500 pieces per specification |
| Sampling | 7 working days, 3 days per revision |
| Bulk lead time | 20-55 days after approval |
| Compliance | ISO 9001 |
| Packing | 20 pieces per inner box, 1000 per carton |
Material options
- Carbon Fibre Composite — used when the finish has to hold a coating
- Neoprene — the cost-effective default for volume programmes
- Silicone — selected when the part is exposed to weather and road salt
- Magnesium Alloy — the cost-effective default for volume programmes
- Zinc Plated Steel — specified where the part sits close to a heat source
Processes available
- anodising
- injection moulding
- ultrasonic cleaning
- electroplating
- heat treatment
- rubber vulcanisation
Fitment notes
Confirm the fitment against the VIN or the frame number before ordering; two model years often share a name and not a part.
Where it is used
The specification above is the one most often ordered for rural transport. Related applications include coastal delivery, passenger transport, farm use, delivery fleets, ride-hailing fleets.
Quality and packing
- In-line inspection with AQL 2.5 sampling on every lot.
- Dimensional report issued against the approved drawing.
- Carton marking and barcode to your specification.
- Golden sample retained at the factory as the reorder reference.
Questions buyers ask
Do you handle mixed containers?
Yes. Most programmes consolidate several part numbers into one container to keep freight sensible at 500 pieces per line.
Can the specification be held on file?
Yes. Once approved, the specification is recorded against your part number so a reorder reproduces the ISO 9001-compliant build instead of a fresh interpretation.
How long does sampling take?
Samples leave the factory in 7 working days, and each revision round adds about 3 days once you have seen the first piece.
How is packing specified?
Individual packing, inner box quantity and carton marking are confirmed at quotation stage so the cartons arrive ready for your warehouse.
Send the part number, the annual volume and the target market, and we will come back with a specification and a sampling plan.
