|
  |
|
|
Forced Induction For Your BMW
Many folks find themselves considering boosting for your car, or any BMW for that matter, there are many things to take into account. There are the basic questions like, turbo versus supercharger, which supplier and how much boost to make. But also equally critical are issues of how other systems within your auto could need to be changed to correctly handle all of that increased performance. It is hardly ever the case where you can simply bolt on a supercharger and off you go without needing to consider these other systems. I cannot address every BMW version in terms of forced induction, there are just too many versions to describe here. However, in general, superchargers result in less expensive, easier to install kit. These kits frequently make 6-8 lbs of boost and the typical backyard mechanic can easily install a quality kit in six hours. Superchargers will often make significant horsepower but many kits will not make a huge amount of low rpm torque. For average driving you won't get much of a difference until you get to higher RPMs. Turbos result in huge power potential, also result in a lot of low end torque once spooled up but also can present a more time consuming installation. For example, in high boost applications you may need to lower the compression ratio through either a thicker head gasket or shorter pistons. There are more items to a turbo kit as well, consisting of items like an intercooler, bypass valve, blow off valve, waste gate, exhaust manifold, larger injectors, etc. The typical backyard mechanic will often not be able to do this install. A trained technician will require 8-12 hours depending on which kit and this can add considerably to the total cost of the project. But, the increased power is worth it as long as it is in your budget. Stopping: Well, if you have a 400 to 500 HP car you had better have 400 to 500 HP brakes. More power means higher acceleration, superior speed and much greater stress on your braking system. Many upgrades here include larger diameter discs, upgraded multi piston brake calipers, performance brake pads, stainless steel brake lines and premium brake fluid. Make this one of the first things you improve after adding a turbo or supercharger. Driveline: If you have a manual transmission, seriously consider improving the clutch. The Sachs heavy duty clutch is great for mild applications with more serious power needing a UUC, Clutchmaster or similar kit. It is best to change it out now, because your OEM clutch will most likely be worn out very quickly otherwise. This is typically about a 6 hour project for many mechanics. Cooling System: Power equals heat. Your car's cooling system is designed to handle your factory power heat output. Should you live in a hot area, go to the track or do a lot of high speed driving you need better cooling. Your best bet here is to purchase a larger capacity, performance radiator. Ensure the system is flushed and has new fluid. You can also install engine heat shielding to keep the heat from your intake and also special hoods that have slots installed to allow the hot air to escape quickly. Driving Skills: The most important thing to improve is your driving skill. All of that hp can get you in a lot of trouble and you do not want to be injured or injure anyone else. A great place to start is to look into BMWCCA driving schools. They are modestly priced and you really learn a great deal. There are also many other professionally managed driving schools throughout the USA that can teach you how to safely drive your high performance BMW. Rand Stuck is a BMW certified technician with over 11 years experience working on BMWs and currently manages the BMW parts department for a large BMW dealer. |
 
No reactions yet.
Please login or sign up to rate this intel.
Please login or sign up to add a comment.
The copyright for this content entitled "Forced Induction For Your BMW" has been specified by the contributor as:
All Rights Reserved
This content may not be copied, distributed or adapted by anyone under any circumstances.
|
 |
May, 2012
2008
January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
2009
January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
2010
January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
2011
January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
2012
January, February, March, April, May
|
|
Not a member yet?
Qondio is a powerful network for making it online. If you have a website to
promote, we can help.
Sign up and get in on the action.
|
|
Welcome to Qondio! Discover the awesome power this network can deliver by going to our About page. Or you could skip straight to the Sign Up form.
|
|
