I have the NM module and I have been pleased with its performance. I have run it on the low setting since I originally installed it. I am planning on running 100 octane fuel and switching it to the high setting. Have any of you already done this? If so, is there a learning period required for it to fully realize the additional power?

 

Always a new learning curve to adapt to the new parameters.

 

Thanks Whitey, as part 2 of the question, does it have to relearn when I switch back to 93 octane fuel and the low setting, or does it remember both modes? I sent this question to NM, but they have not replied yet.

 

I would hazard a guess and say yes, it has to relearn every time you make a major change to the operating parameters. +or- 2-3 pounds of boost is a pretty big change when you're running 11:1 compression ratio, or in the case of your JCW 10.2:1. Just my semi-educated opinion though.

 

Adaptive ECU in theory is constantly learning and changing to input. Closed loop systems change off a given set point. That's pushing the limits of my knowledge.

 

Well, it appears you both have more knowledge about this than I do! I will post what NM has to say about it if they answer my inquiry. Thanks for the responses.

 

Here is the information from NM.
The ECU will adapt to the 100 octane almost instantly, say a few minutes depending on how much 93 fuel left in the system. The same thing will happen when you switch back to 93. Don’t worry about switching the setting right away, do it at your convenience. Our module still lets the ECU to adapt to different conditions, including ambient temperature, fuel grade/quality, different drivers, etc. it is not that sensitive. If it sees something it doesn’t like the safety protocols will kick in and let you know

 

Good info. Thanks Dan.

 

I found some relatively close, 70 miles, Sunoco GT 100 octane although it is liquid gold at $9.00 per gallon. I won't be using it frequently! At least for a dyno session.

 

VIR has it for about the same price. The track is about 15 miles from my home and I'm pretty sure one of the companies located at the track has a dyno. Just depends on the cost. In any event, it's too hot now anyway. Why give up HP by running it on pre-heated air?

 

True, I will take the truck and load 4 six gallon tanks and get the fuel some time next week and then set up the dynomometer test when it cools off a bit and then see what I get.

 

Please post results of the dyno run....will be interesting! I can buy 100+ octane fuel for $7/gal near me. Not sure if I will bother tho.

 

Save yourself the trip

http://www.jegs.com/i/Race+Gas/814/1...FYskhgodyE8CuQ

 

I use torco race fuel concentrate when I don't feel like driving a few miles to get 100 octane Sunoco GT fuel.

 

Do you all remove the NM power module before you bring your car in for routine maintenance? I know a number of dealers are actually selling them, so I would think they'd be hard pressed to raise a stink about it. But, I'm just curious what people that actually own it do. Thanks

 

Yes, better safe than sorry and it is only a 10 minute task, better to err on the side of caution and possibly prevent hassles.

 

delete......... double post

 

Could you give me the info on a couple of those dealers? I'd like to give them to my dealer and see if he'll consider it. Until such time as my dealer actually starts selling them or tells me it's okay I'll keep removing it before service visits.

 

If the dealers are selling the module they should check with BMW and see what their corporate position is on these. If they, BMW, are OK with it why wouldn't they just sanction ECU remapping? There would be more power available through that route and the dealerships and BMW would realize a larger profit margin. That said, I am satisfied with my current setup as it provides the power that I want and anything more would be excessive for me as I would not be able to use it competently. The vagaries or perhaps infirmities of age are a consideration! I am still planning on the 100 octane adventure when my schedule permits.

 

I believe it was Hendrick MINI in Charlotte at the very least. I'll look around to see if I can find the post where someone mentioned that. I even called them on a whim just to see, and the parts guy confirmed they sell them, and they had a few on the way.

 

I am curious, did he quote you a price?

 

It's been a number of months, so I don't remember if I asked about price. I was just curious as to whether a reputable dealership would be selling them. The parts guy was very matter of fact as to their availability. I wish I could remember if I broached the whole warranty issue, but I don't think it really matters. I don't think they would be selling them if there was or would potentially be a question about voiding a warranty. Their potential liability could be big since they are implying there aren't any issues by the very fact that they are selling them.

 

Just called Hendrick Mini in Charlotte. They don't sell the power module. They do sell the NM springs though.

 

Thought for sure it was them. I know it was an out-of-state dealer I was familiar with, and I had previously bought Challenge stripes from them for my R56.

I definitely called a dealer that was selling them.

 

So I have a little confession. I could be a bit in the stubborn side sometimes and wanted to believe running NM on high with 91 octane yields better result that it would running it in low with the same fuel. I must say that running 100 octane on high is a beast. I fill up the tank about once or twice a month with 100 octane but mostly run on 91.
Setting it on low today, it just felt more responsive and the power felt more stable and gradual. Running it on high, it almost feels like a slight lag but the torque and power is there. In conclusion, I'm keeping it on low until I put race fuel.

Warning (all measurements are done with a highly calibrated butt dyno. Accuracy may be differ from person to person. It's accurate to me and my car only)