Pics after removing rear air suspension
 

Sorry it took so long, but here are the pics after having the rear "self leveling" air suspension removed, and installing traditional coil springs.

I used OEM BMW coil springs that are used for the 2001 3.0 models. The only other necessary parts are the upper and lower spring pads, and the adapter (it's purpose is to hold the upper spring pad in place). I spent around $400 in parts including taxes. The ride height is exactly the same as it was before. I had an independent shop install the springs for me for $205. It was money well spent, since I spent 5 hours of my time in vain trying to DIY.
Doing the conversion will cause a "self level susp. inactive" light to go on your instrument cluster. You can either live with this, or have your local BMW dealer remove the error message. If you happen to live anywhere near Chicagoland, you're in luck. I had success at Laurel BMW in Westmont, IL (chicago suburbs), and better yet Perillo BMW in downtown Chicago can get it done even quicker. My dealership here in Springfield, MO failed to be able to remove the message. So not all BMW dealerships can get it done apparently!

I have noticed literally no difference in ride or handling. I am very pleased with the results! The 500 mile drive to and from Chicago was just as comfortable as ever. And now I will never have to worry about an air spring, or a sensor going bad on me. For $740 total, it was money well spent. I highly recommend this to anyone having problems with their rear air suspension!

edit: having trouble posting pics, says missing security token..bear with me

Use a photo hosting site like photobucket to post pics. Its real easy and you can post pics right in the thread.

Not something I'd ever want to do, though I understand why you did now.

Hopefully this works:

http://i757.photobucket.com/albums/x...4/P1000375.jpg

http://i757.photobucket.com/albums/x...4/P1000376.jpg

http://i757.photobucket.com/albums/x...4/P1000373.jpg

It's certainly not for everyone. Requires a bit of patience and determination to get done. Also costs more than simply replacing an air spring. But for someone having issues with their air spring system that are becoming headaches this is the way to go.
At $740 it is certainly not cheap, but it is a permanent solution. In my case I was willing to spend more up front, and not have to worry about spending more later. Better yet my wife won't have to call me when that inactive message comes on anymore!

The decision to do this hinges on how long each of us decides to keep the X5. If you're in for the long haul, this might be worth the extra upfront cost to avoid the replacement costs of future air spring leaks. I like the idea that it can be done to keep stock ride height or if you want it for performance and aesthetic reasons, lowering it.

I would love to see photos of the adapter mounted....

I'm afraid I don't have any pics of the adapter. But I will tell you that it is very obvious how the adapter works. The purpose of the adapter is to hold the upper coil spring pad in place.

Are you trying to DIY this job?

hi rph74, do it feel springy on little bumps? Compared to the air susp, which is preferable; ie, forgoing the jassles d latter tows along?
I have d same mod as u and i hv replaced the air susp (we call dem balloons ova here and the pump relay after just a year!)

Mine feels the same as it did with the air suspension, no difference at all. The only difference that would be seen is if you where towing. But for me, I use my pickup for that.