OK, R53 fans. I'm working with a European tuner to modify an MS5150 ECU (post-facelift version) for my R53. The updated ECU evidently provides more tuning options as well as a higher performance ceiling. Question: who has removed their ECU and, if so, is there any magic to it or anything that needs to be accounted for to prevent damage? Any removal and/or installation tips?

My MINI currently has a Dinan Stage 1 tune, 15% supercharger pulley and a one-ball exhaust. The Dinan tune was completed when the car was new (2004 Cooper S MC40) but does not account for the new pulley or exhaust mods. This new tune will allow for the current mods plus an upgrade to 380cc injectors. I would appreciate performance feedback from drivers who have had similar mods.

As an aside, I put my MINI on a dyno this morning and pulled 175.67HP at the wheel. That equates to approx. 202HP at the crank. Air/fuel ratio was right on the money. Unfortunately, a dyno computer glitch didn't allow me to obtain torque numbers. My tuner is telling me to expect 235HP at the crank post-ECU installation. I'm going to reserve judgement on whether or not I can get that much gain but I do intend to put it back on the dyno and quantify the change. Because I'm working across the Atlantic this replacement process will most likely take a few weeks but I'll provide an update and a tuner review as soon as I have the new dyno readings. Everyone have a Happy & Safe New Year!

 

Don't waste your money. Simply get the JCW tune. The facelift ecu's don't have anything more than yours.
Or better yet, get Jan at RMW to do a dyno tune with the shop that did this dyno run.