First, I'm looking at the Wagner Tuning FMIC and Forge uprated FMIC for my r55. They are both around the same price, so what does everyone use? Pros and cons of each.

Second, how difficult is it to put an intercooler on? Does the front bumper have to be removed? Do I just use the stock hardware for the stock intercooler?

Lastly, should I do the hot side tube or cold side or both at the same time? Thanks in advance.

 

I installed a Forge in a R56, it's the same process. Rather straight forward. Yes, you have to remove front bumper. Plan on 4 hours. There are good how-to videos on Youtube. It's easier if you have the front elevated on jack stands.

You use the stock hardware. The Forge comes with an extra center bolt that you drill into the crash bumper (CAREFUL NOT TO DRILL INTO YOUR RADIATOR). Depending on your year, you might or might not have to remove the crash bumper too. I know you have to on 2013. This is not a big deal.

The no time advantage in putting in the cold side tube at the same time (the aftermarket tubes do not attach to the intercooler, they attach much further up) , and only a slight time advantage with the hot side - i.e. you have the clamp off to the intercooler.

 

Thanks for the info man. I ordered the forge from esetuning for $576. Great price and I see a lot of people here rock the forge brand.

So to be clear, I don't need anything else for it? I just use the existing tubing/pipes from the stock intercooler.

 

You will need nothing...except if you break some of the plastic push rivets (fasteners) when removing the bumper. These can be purchased at the dealer for $0.50-$1.00 each. I broke one or two and finally two months later drove by the dealer and picked up a few.

You will reuse the band clamps and the stock tubes. You will also reuse the stock screw and rubber bushing to fasten each side of the intercooler.

Also, I ended up selling the stock Intercooler on eBay for $100.

 

you will brake them plastic revits.


on mine i did not remove the whole bumper. just the lip part and had to saw off one mounting tab to squeeze the new intercooler in. worked for me

 

Here's the part number for the fixing rivet:

51471911992

These other ones might break or strip out:

07130702966

This is all for (2013 R56) not sure of the year of your R55 but should be similar:

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts...62&hg=51&fg=15

 

Thanks for the part numbers. Also a 2013 r55. Should be the same. Should have intercooler within a week or so.

 

Damn looks like the forge is out if stock right now. Going to probably order the Wagner Tuning fmic. Anyone have any experience with this one?

 

[QUOTE=ClubmanRob;3846975]Damn looks like the forge is out if stock right now. Going to probably order the Wagner Tuning fmic. Anyone have any experience with this one?[/QUOTEi went with helix as forge is backed up. i dont regret it no trimming and perfect fit.

 

I don't have one, but I fantasize about the Helix. Cast ends look sweet! My mechanic of choice recommended the forge, but I assumed that was due to lower cost with same performance gains.

 

Ya but the helix is ~$200 more than the Wagner. Wagner seems reputable out of Germany making parts for BMW, Audi, Porsche, etc.

I'll try the Wagner and see how it is as far as fitment and quality.

Here's the one I'm looking athttp://www.esetuning.com/Wagner-Tuning-Front-Mount-Intercooler-p/200001025.htm

 

Looks nice. I'm saving for the impending Helix group buy. It'll work out to similar price.

 

Ya the helix group buy sell seems several months away. Not sure this $600 won't burn a hole through my pocket.