For those interested. I just had the dealer put the stage 3 software on my 05, everything else stock, and am very impressed. The car is way smoother now and doesn't feel like an on off switch anymore and starting out off the line with the AC on is no big deal anymore. Acceleration is a bit better also, its like the car just wants to go faster and its easier to shift smoothly now. Next is the intake then a pipe, after that its time for stage 5, yea!!!

I definatly recomend it, well worth the money.

 

I was thinking about getting the stage 5 software, since I plan on installing a 15% soon. Is the stage 5 software worth it? Do I have to bring the car in for them to install it, is it just a download and if so can my bmw dealer do it?

 

BMW Dealer can not install software is what I have been told.
I also recomend, if your getting the pulley, also get the intake. Yes by far get the stage 5 software, it made a tremendous difference. Stage 3 was fun, but stage 3 to stage 5 is flat awesome.

 

Soon, real soon.

 

does the computer have to be sent in, anyways?

 

Nope, they do it right at the dealer.

 

They could send in the ECM to Dinan for the flash also, but then your out of a Mini for a few days. It is just a small computer they plug in and it takes all but 10 minutes(this might be long) for the Stage III.

The Throttle Body is next.

 

I talked with dinan this morning apparently my bwm dealer can do it. Which is sweet. They are waiting on the new upgrade that was sent out this morning...

 

Good to hear!

 

Got the newest Dinan S5 software yesterday and the 2800-3500 RPM flat spot seems to be history . I'll report back after a few days and a visit to the track.

My MCS is '05 produced 11/04.

 

This is terrific news and please report after your track days.

 

Slate, good to hear!!

Am I reading your sig. correct...you have the CAI, Throttle Body, and Exhaust all from Dinan? You did not go with the pully and fuel system upgrade?

 

Forgot to update signature with 15% Webb pulley and Denso Iridium plugs.

I've been very pleased with the Dinan mods; I've done them over the last year so I got to appreciate them in stages. Several knowledgable and experienced members of my local MINI club, and my local Dinan/MINI tech, feel the fuel component of the boost kit is unneccessary. I'll likely upgrade the injectors. Engine performance and throttle response are excellent.....time to work on suspension and brakes.

 

Slate, thanks for the reply. I am also thinking of doing the same with the upgrades. I like the idea that BMW/Mini has given the secret hand shake to Dinan. I know a pulley is a pulley, but knowing they are ok with the Dinan kit makes me feel fuzzy inside.

Did you talk with the dealership about the pulley mod and are they ok with it?

 

I'm happy to report the new S5 software remains flat spot free. It also performed nicely at the all MINI track day I attended yesterday; 32 cars in all. Our local club organized it and there are many JCW and Alta/M7 moded cars. I'm still prefer the throaty exhaust (WOT) of the DINAN and my S was certainly out accelerating most of the cars in my group.

Mr. Pep'r - I didn't specifically ask the dealership if I were going to void my MINI or DINAN warranty by doing the WMS pulley but the representative specifically suggested the S5 software to go with my pulley install. He also said the fuel boost seemed unnecessary even though I had my concerns. I don't anticipate any issues with the car or the dealer as both have performed well and my dealer has previously taken care of warranty work on owner modded cars. If you have a local club there are likely members that can provide insight on what your dealer will do. Best of luck.

 

Thanks Slate for the post, we are part of a local club and they have said no pulley until after the warranty is up. I have a good relationship with the dealership and just need to ask them next time I am there. That is why I like the Dinan products....they have the blessing.

Thanks again for your help and can not wait to turn her up even more after the Stage III.

 

You mean your individual Mini Dealership.

BMW/Mini is NOT okay with Dinan. BMW/Mini will treat a Dinan modification as if it were an M7, WMS MM. etc. mod. The difference is that your local Dealer has an agreement with Dinan.

Big difference.

 

Does anyone have a dyno sheet comparing a pre and post Stage 5 software upgrade?

 

I'm running a stock 05 MCS now with an One Balled exhaust. What performance gain should I reasonably expect go gain by adding a Dinan intake and the Dinan Stage 3 software upgrade? Gotta decide 2 days left on the software sale!

 

I went with the stage 4. Works quite well. Extremely happy. Car pulls faster. More throttle responce in 1st gear. And the 7250 rpm is quite nice!

 

Some, not all BMW/MINI dealerships and some independents warrantee DINAN stuff. Check the DINAN web site for their list of authorized dealers.

 

Weegit, somewhat on subject, are you happy with combination of DINAN 19mm bar, JCW strut bar and brakes? I've been considering the DINAN bar with JCW Suspension and then brakes. How would you describe the difference over your stock set up?

Thanks

 

Yes - some Dealerships warrantee the Dinan upgrades - this is very different from MiniUSA or BMW/NA warranteeing them. This warranty is different than the factory warranty and may impact how the manufacturer handles your factory coverage.

There are many drawbacks to this arrangement. They've been discussed in detail on other threads. The fact remains - Dinan upgrades are not seen any differently from M7 upgrades or WMS upgrades in the eyes of the Manufacturer.

 

I've had no problems with mixing manufacturers. It has been more a function of which product had all the hardware bits available and what I could get - it has been frustrating when it comes to finding warrantable upgrades for the convertible auto. I'm currently considering getting an MCS JCW hardtop manual, just to get the most performance and handling available.

The strut brace is mostly bling - very little noticeable effect on handling. Although being on a convertible, I would assume there is some positive stiffening. I would probably switch to the DINAN strut brace if I get their air box - just to be sure there are no fitment problems.

The DINAN rear bar (on the stiffer setting) does reduce understeer noticeably, while still keeping safely away from any oversteer. This I would expect from a product sold and installed by a dealer.

The JCW brakes are wonderful. Any package, which includes larger rotors in front and better pads all around will be appreciated.

Since most of us are not engine or suspension experts, I would venture to say that mixing brands is fine. I doubt we'd be able to tell the extremely subtle differences. Just be careful when upgrading components, which we all know work in unison, such as springs and shocks.

 

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