OE Tuning

[mike@x-ph.com]

Originally Posted by PA135i

I've read almost every FMIC thread on this site and I'm more confused than ever!

Correct me if I'm wrong, I don't want to spend $500 - $1300 on something I might not need.

1. I will never track my car.
2. I live in the NE, where we get warm/hot weather 4 months a year.
3. I drive aggressively 30% of the time.
4. My car has an adequate FMIC already.
5. If I do buy one it will be a 5" FMIC so I won't get much of a gain anyway.

I'm just trying to weigh the pros and cons before I go for this tune. I may want to keep this car another 50K at least.

thanks.

Originally Posted by ShocknAwe

If you are planning on running higher boost and do back to back pulls it will help reduce timing pulls due to high AIT. Same is true for a long pull.

Big difference between the stock unit and pretty much any aftermarket 5". Upgrading the FMIC isn't so much about power gain as it is about repeatable, reliable power thanks to lower AIT.

+1 FMIC will not offer you much power, it is more about IAT control.
In your case the 5" sounds like a very good option. It will be a major upgrade over stock , easy to install and will do the job just fine

[PA135i]

Mike,

What about the Mishimoto intercooler that is a direct fit install with no cutting.
You did not mention this one. Good price also. $595

[mike@x-ph.com]

Originally Posted by PA135i

Mike,

What about the Mishimoto intercooler that is a direct fit install with no cutting.
You did not mention this one. Good price also. $595

It is a good intercooler. They had a problem with fitment in their last batch. Had 2 customer returns, then got it fixed.
Should be all good now

[PA135i]

I'm leaning towards the 5" VRSF stepped intercooler or the Mishimoto intercooler.
It's probably a good idea to do this along with the tune because of the increased boost.
Then I'll be done with mods.

Am I correct in assuming that an aftermarket intercooler will increase the longevity of the engine / car? Because of the lower temps... ie/ less stress on engine components?

[ShocknAwe]

Originally Posted by PA135i

Then I'll be done with mods.

You keep telling yourself that.

Originally Posted by PA135i

Am I correct in assuming that an aftermarket intercooler will increase the longevity of the engine / car? Because of the lower temps... ie/ less stress on engine components?

Theoretically, yes. But in all reality you won't be keeping the power levels at what was attainable without the FMIC, so the answer is no.

[PA135i]

Originally Posted by ShocknAwe

You keep telling yourself that.

Stop teasing me.




Theoretically, yes. But in all reality you won't be keeping the power levels at what was attainable without the FMIC, so the answer is no.

clarify please. (I won't be tracking the car and won't be driving aggressively more than 30% of the time)

[Sasha4]

He is stating that once you get that bug; that adrenaline for speed- its like a disease. Everyone starts off saying- I only want a tune...

Im currently tuning my wifes 135i and my R35 GTR and the bank is broke but its all smiles to the gallon now

[PA135i]

I knew he was joking.. but it is crazy. All I've been thinking about the last 2 months is what quality mods to do...

it's like an endless spiral into HP paradise...........

[mike@x-ph.com]

Originally Posted by PA135i

I knew he was joking.. but it is crazy. All I've been thinking about the last 2 months is what quality mods to do...

it's like an endless spiral into HP paradise...........

You are over complicating this
Since you will not be tracking your car, it will not matter which of the 2 intercoolers you choose ( Mishimoto or VRSF 5"). You will not notice any difference between the 2.
If you plan on using more than E30 mix, get a cobb V3. If not just get a JB4 and call it a day.

[PA135i]

What's a E30 mix?

[ShocknAwe]

Originally Posted by PA135i

What's a E30 mix?

30% ethanol

Also, to clarify my above statement: It doesn't matter what FMIC you have on the car, in terms of engine health if you're not tracking (multiple pulls, repeated numerous times, leading to heat soak and limp mode). You will be pushing the car to its max potential via fueling either way, which means temperatures will be about the same on the street. The upgraded FMIC will allow you to run a little more boost consistently, that's all.

[PA135i]

Thanks to all for your help.

I will be getting a FMIC at the same time as the tune. ETA is June or July. My funds need to recover from the walnut blast and Bilsteins I had installed 2 weeks ago.

I learned a lot here and appreciate your patience.

[ShocknAwe]

Originally Posted by PA135i

and Bilsteins I had installed 2 weeks ago.

Details. Now.

[PA135i]

Bilstein HD's (all four) installed with the stock springs, plus alignment. Car feels tighter, not harsh and it holds the curves at high speeds.... I noticed this right away (I hope this doesn't get me in trouble.)