Well my next biggest bang for the buck mod is the Helix intercooler. This updated version just came out and I have one on the way. More pictures and comments to follow.

Here is a comparison of the stock versus Helix intercooler.

 

That IC may not help much but it really looks great. But, I know that a IC upgrade does really help. If nothing else, it will save your turbo with cooler air. That will be an upcoming upgrade for me next year. Let us know how it all works, including installation.

 

From what's been tested and documented with other's personal rides; it presents itself as a quality component.
The lower intake temps via data-logging speak for themselves!

- Erik

 

Woah! A bit contradictory?

Not sure if this is entirely true... Intercoolers are downstream/post turbo. I dont see how "colder" air post turbo is gonna help with its longevity. Perhaps an aftermarket oil cooler? Or where you refering to an air intake... even then... i doubt the actual turbo temp vary.

Regardless... FMI with tune... Will def have to be my next long term mod.

 

Here is info in the Helix

 

Even though I had my Helix FMIC installed at Helix, it's is a straight forward install. You have to remove the front bumper cover. If you have driving lights... its a bit harder as those have to come off as well. Helix charges 2 hours of labor. But it took them 4 to do my car.

 

Spinned,

Is yours the updated helix IC with extra cooling fins. It looks larger than the one I have.

 

Yes. the picture above is from another NAM thread. This is their new redesign for the R56. It just came available. I was on the a wait list since last April. I should get mine in a couple more days and I hope to install it this weekend. I'll take pictures as I plan to install it using the DIY method.

 

Will the new design Helix intercooler properly fit onto a 2010 cooper S bumper?
Please inform. Nobody seems to know?

 

I think you would have to call Helix. But I was part of a group buy of 40 cars so I imagine that most of them were Cooper S cars. You might want to check out this thread. Maybe there is an answer there.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...up-buy-30.html