I just received my GP intercooler "kit" from Peter (in Austria). I must say I highly recommend buying from Peter if you are in the market for one (he has posted before in the marketplace forum). He sent me (brand new parts) the core, air diverter, new rear mount brackets, and the pc that attaches under the hood. Install was very easy. I haven't driven with the new intercooler yet, so no driving impressions.

 

What is different about the GP intercooler compared to the stock MCS job?

 

it's larger.... more like the size of the alta :D

 

Can't wait for my GP IC to arrive as well.....

 

Looking at the pictures and that I've not eyballed a GP in person, can you still get to the plugs easily? I have been checking the GP intercooler out too and can't wait to hear your driving impressions!:impatient

 

shooler, how much did it cost total. Include shipping prices. Thanks

 

shooler, how did you get an 05 EB?

 

Inquiring minds need to know.

 

looks great!

how much did you pay?

 

You can check from here:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/John-...spagenameZWDVW

 

This is the same guy I bought mine from (his name is Peter). I paid $685 for everything shipped, but I also opted for 5 day shipping (around $90 to get it that fast) I think standard shipping is a couple of weeks.

As for plug access, the IC does cover the plugs, although removing it is very easy.

JustJay-05 was the last year for EB (mine is an 8/05 build).

 

How could you have put that on your car and not taken it for a spin? What does it feel like?:impatient

 

 

I hope it will help me a bit during the rush-hour on the beltway.

 

Guess he's still not taken it for a spin.....

 

e-bay ad states +15HP gain! Is that possible with just an intercooler swap?

 

I do not believe that 15hp increase...

Put it this way... A JCW with injectors and air filter has 210hp. The JCW GP has 217hp, from an intercooler and ECU upgrade. 7hp from both the IC and the ECU. 4-5 would be more accurate.

 

ICs don't add HP they can only recoup lost ponies

 

This I understand

 

First let me say I am still on the stock IC, but I did some searches on NAM not long ago trying to find out more info about the GP intercooler. If I remember correctly, it is nowhere near the size of the alta. The general opinion seemed rather unfavorable considering the price.

[edit] Here is the thread I was talking about, though it is hard to skip through the thread hijack about pulleys, lol: https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...2A+intercooler [/edit]

Everyone was saying that it is essentially just two extra rows welded onto the stock intercooler, and that it doesn't really come close to the cooling increase that can be had with an Alta, GRM, m7, or other larger aftermarket intercoolers that are in or near the same price range.

That said, I actually am not trying to bash the GP IC or anyone who chooses to buy one, as the extra rows and better flow on the IC help, but I just wanted to point out this info for those unfamiliar with the intercooler options out there. The general opinion seems to be that your better off saving up a little extra money for a larger aftermarket one.

 

Just got home from work (I don't use my Mini as a commuter). I'll go drive it now, although I'm not sure what to expect. I assume I will see a difference after extended periods of "hard" driving where the increased cooling capacity should come into play.

 

After spending quite a lot of time researching all the options concerning different IC's, I decided the GP solution was the best one (for ME). Spend your money on whichever one you think is best. I do think, however, that BMW put more effort into the GP intercoolers design than just "welding 2 extra rows".

 

How did it feel to the butt dyno?

 

Actually that is all that the GP intercooler is. There is a thread somewhere here that shows close up pics of both to prove it. Regardless, that doesn't mean that it is not another viable choice to upgrade an R53 with. I am seriously considering getting one if I can find one at or near retail price.

 

The car feels great. I think the GP IC compliments my water/meth injection (which is already cooling the intake charge) nicely. Plus, it looks really nice installed. Overall, very happy with my decision to go with this IC. Summer will be the real test as the humidity and temps outside rise.
Jeff (of Alta/Perrin) wants to change my 15% pulley for a 17% and retune the car on the dyno. I have baseline runs without WI installed, so we can turn the system off and see if GP IC makes any difference.