RaceChip Tune Plug Question for 5.0i

[opasha]

OMG...wow! I just got back from testing/driving the X5 on back roads and the highway. The S2=C setting was all I changed, and I can now say I have an official MONSTER in my garage. This thing hands down will be able to destroy my brother's ML63 AMG with ease. There is no more lag in any mode. Eco-Pro now has about the same power output as stock Comfort believe it or not. When I pushed harder and faster, there was no lag in the early RPMs and there was no loss of power/tapering off in the higher RPMs (some noted this in their 3.5 testing and I noticed this in setting B for Eco-Pro and slightly in Comfort). Sport mode on the highway really throws this thing into fast M territory and I confidently say this having driven my brother's ML63 AMG...my X5 5.0i picks up faster - the shifts were smoother and the car just kept going faster without lag/delay. Obviously I would need raw data and a real dyno to prove this, but I drove the same roads I normally do with both cars, and I kid you not...it was as if the car was a completely different vehicle - no exaggeration. I did a rolling start from the highway merge ramp at 15-20 mph and thought I hit 80 mph so fast...I was wrong and the speedometer read 105mph - I was shocked. No shaking of the car or loss of control whatsoever. Color me very impressed/happy. If anyone buys this chip, leave S1=1 and change S2=C.

Just reposting my comment in case people look for this thread and wonder about the settings and info.

[thedragonseven]

Great post!

I don't have an X5 any longer, as I've moved to an M6 Gran Coupe. This M5/M6 engine is a S63Tu - so very much related to the N63Tu in your X5.

I also have the RaceChip Ultimate on my car and have it set to S1=1, S2=D setting (it was also 1,B stock). Maybe give that extra notch a try.

On the M5/M6, it takes removing one screw for each intake, removing the intakes, and locating the sensors mounted on the intercoolers. After several times now, I can do it pretty much in 15 minutes or less.

But, looking at the X5 engine bay it does seem some things are squeezed where in the M5/M6 they aren't as tight in those areas.

Also one thing to note, I get drivetrain malfunctions from B to E, regardless. I never lose power delivery, never lose driveability, and never lose throttle and engine response. It just comes on and sometimes goes off later.

As some have noted, and I confirmed with the director of my BMW service department, the fuel/air/exhaust sensors are very sensitive.

[opasha]

Originally Posted by thedragonseven

Great post!

I don't have an X5 any longer, as I've moved to an M6 Gran Coupe. This M5/M6 engine is a S63Tu - so very much related to the N63Tu in your X5.

I also have the RaceChip Ultimate on my car and have it set to S1=1, S2=D setting (it was also 1,B stock). Maybe give that extra notch a try.

On the M5/M6, it takes removing one screw for each intake, removing the intakes, and locating the sensors mounted on the intercoolers. After several times now, I can do it pretty much in 15 minutes or less.

But, looking at the X5 engine bay it does seem some things are squeezed where in the M5/M6 they aren't as tight in those areas.

Also one thing to note, I get drivetrain malfunctions from B to E, regardless. I never lose power delivery, never lose driveability, and never lose throttle and engine response. It just comes on and sometimes goes off later.

As some have noted, and I confirmed with the director of my BMW service department, the fuel/air/exhaust sensors are very sensitive.

Thanks, buddy! Yeah, I'm very happy with the current settings. They've been running great for me. You're right about the sensitivity, but I've had zero issues since performing the install myself. If I'm feeling adventurous, I might try the D setting down the road, but right now C is solid.

[thedragonseven]

So far, I've tried every notch from B to 1, actually.

I settled on D because it seemed like the safest medium.

Plus, being rear wheel drive only, I was having a hard time getting moving when it was on any of S2=E, F, 0, or 1.

[opasha]

Originally Posted by thedragonseven

So far, I've tried every notch from B to 1, actually.

I settled on D because it seemed like the safest medium.

Plus, being rear wheel drive only, I was having a hard time getting moving when it was on any of S2=E, F, 0, or 1.

Yeah, I know what you mean. Haha, yeah, a lot of wheel spin I'm sure with all that added HP!

How do you feel in each mode?

Right now, Eco-Pro moves pretty quickly with pretty much no lag, Comfort drives as fast as the Stock Sport mode, and Sport mode is a whole other beast where the car feels like I'm holding it on a leash when I'm braking. As soon as I hit the throttle, it just zooms.

[greentrbo95gst]

Are you planning on getting dyno numbers on the m6?

[thedragonseven]

opasha - It feels much better in all drive modes. I've also added the Sprint Booster which has helped further reduce throttle lag. I'd say responsiveness has improved a couple of levels, i.e., Comfort is now Sport Plus, Sport is now Sport Plus Plus, and Sport Plus is bonkers.


greentrbo95gst - I recently upgraded to the Turner Motorsports Race-Inspired M5/M6 exhaust. It is basically a muffler delete. Sounds really great. And as it so happens, it added something like 12 HP and 19 Ft-Lbs of torque.

Yes, I am looking to get it dyno'd at some point - although frankly, I can plug and unplug the RaceChip unit and prove to myself and everyone else that it works run after run. But, for the pragmatist in me (and just to have the dyno sheet) I would love to see the actual numbers.

[opasha]

Originally Posted by thedragonseven

opasha - It feels much better in all drive modes. I've also added the Sprint Booster which has helped further reduce throttle lag. I'd say responsiveness has improved a couple of levels, i.e., Comfort is now Sport Plus, Sport is now Sport Plus Plus, and Sport Plus is bonkers.


greentrbo95gst - I recently upgraded to the Turner Motorsports Race-Inspired M5/M6 exhaust. It is basically a muffler delete. Sounds really great. And as it so happens, it added something like 12 HP and 19 Ft-Lbs of torque.

Yes, I am looking to get it dyno'd at some point - although frankly, I can plug and unplug the RaceChip unit and prove to myself and everyone else that it works run after run. But, for the pragmatist in me (and just to have the dyno sheet) I would love to see the actual numbers.

Appreciate the feedback, buddy. Now, I'm REALLY tempted to try D setting. Ahhh....as if this car wasn't fast/powerful enough!

I might do this after I get the better oil put into my car. I want to leave the engine alone for now - need to take car of it since I own it .

[X5Jouster]

Originally Posted by thedragonseven

opasha - It feels much better in all drive modes. I've also added the Sprint Booster which has helped further reduce throttle lag. I'd say responsiveness has improved a couple of levels, i.e., Comfort is now Sport Plus, Sport is now Sport Plus Plus, and Sport Plus is bonkers.


greentrbo95gst - I recently upgraded to the Turner Motorsports Race-Inspired M5/M6 exhaust. It is basically a muffler delete. Sounds really great. And as it so happens, it added something like 12 HP and 19 Ft-Lbs of torque.

Yes, I am looking to get it dyno'd at some point - although frankly, I can plug and unplug the RaceChip unit and prove to myself and everyone else that it works run after run. But, for the pragmatist in me (and just to have the dyno sheet) I would love to see the actual numbers.

please tell me more about the sprintboosters on our BMWs!!!!!!


very interested in the product for my x5 50i tuned with BMS....very familiar with sprint and what they do, but didnt realize they would already be available for our model year......keep me posted thank you!!

[opasha]

Originally Posted by X5Jouster

please tell me more about the sprintboosters on our BMWs!!!!!!


very interested in the product for my x5 50i tuned with BMS....very familiar with sprint and what they do, but didnt realize they would already be available for our model year......keep me posted thank you!!

What exactly are sprint boosters? Nevermind, quick google search and figured it out...interesting technology.

And it's available, lol: https://www.sprintboosterusa.com/c-731-at.aspx. I wonder if it's worth it. Anyone else know anything about these?

[X5Jouster]

Originally Posted by opasha

What exactly are sprint boosters? Nevermind, quick google search and figured it out...interesting technology.

And it's available, lol: https://www.sprintboosterusa.com/c-731-at.aspx. I wonder if it's worth it. Anyone else know anything about these?

after alittle bit of research....people who didnt buy and havent installed say its snake oil. but people who buy own and installed the SB say its changed the vehicle.

after tunning the lag has slightly increased from a standstill due to the amount of power trying to hit the wheels.

this may be a solution

[r33_RGSport]

Originally Posted by X5Jouster

please tell me more about the sprintboosters on our BMWs!!!!!!


very interested in the product for my x5 50i tuned with BMS....very familiar with sprint and what they do, but didnt realize they would already be available for our model year......keep me posted thank you!!

The way it work just changing the pedal input to the ECU about micro seconds faster.
I don't think it eliminate the turbo lag.
The lag you get it caused by restricted exhaust gas flow.
More freeflowing exhaust pipe and catless dp would help. But dp will trigger CEL and no CEL delete solution yet for N63tu.

[opasha]

Originally Posted by X5Jouster

after alittle bit of research....people who didnt buy and havent installed say its snake oil. but people who buy own and installed the SB say its changed the vehicle.

after tunning the lag has slightly increased from a standstill due to the amount of power trying to hit the wheels.

this may be a solution

Yeah, I found similar forum arguments for and against it from Audi, BMW, and Mercedes forums. There's an advantage where our throttle lag is completely gone, but there's also the issue where you minimize the full throttle capability since it gets you to the throttle much earlier. Others argue that it does the exact same thing as Sport mode does, but Sport mode also changes your Drivetrain and Chassis. Some people say TCU resets are required for it to fully take advantage in the Mercedes forums - never heard of this before until I read it.

I have no throttle lag in Sport and Comfort mode at all anymore with my current tune settings, but there is slight lag still in Eco Pro, but this is understandable because it was absolutely horrendous in stock.

I'm just hesitant on these sorta things when my car really may not need it since Eco Pro is the only area where I notice it slightly. I'm very perceptive in my driving style so the Race Chip tune has definitely helped.

If you buy it, let me know how it goes for you. It's really an easy install. I looked up Andy's Auto Show for install and info.

[opasha]

Originally Posted by r33

The way it work just changing the pedal input to the ECU about micro seconds faster.
I don't think it eliminate the turbo lag.
The lag you get it caused by restricted exhaust gas flow.
More freeflowing exhaust pipe and catless dp would help. But dp will trigger CEL and no CEL delete solution yet for N63tu.

@cy07 said the exact same thing about the exhaust pipe...we need more AIR! This will also give a better sound too right?

[r33_RGSport]

Originally Posted by opasha

@cy07 said the exact same thing about the exhaust pipe...we need more AIR! This will also give a better sound too right?

Of course, less restriction on the exhaust system, means more sound got released.
Based on my research, on the 50i, all you need is the free flow mid pipes. You can just leave the muffler alone.
I have suspicion that the car will be too loud with an aftermarket muffler.

[X5Jouster]

Originally Posted by r33

The way it work just changing the pedal input to the ECU about micro seconds faster.
I don't think it eliminate the turbo lag.
The lag you get it caused by restricted exhaust gas flow.
More freeflowing exhaust pipe and catless dp would help. But dp will trigger CEL and no CEL delete solution yet for N63tu.

but in essance its not turbo lag im speaking of....as a safety net for our trannys i assume there is something like a torque converter... it slowly applies the power so we dont shred the tires off the wheels, or throw. trannys to the ground. not turbo lag, but a lag between the pedal hitting the floor, and the car allowing that potential power to be unleashed immediately instead of gradually.

i dont want to shred tires or destroy trannys, but anythng helps i guess.....i really wish we could remap the throttle on some of these tunes.

i had a Cobb accessport on my 2010 335i, and there was 8 different throttle mapping. some increased lag but also top end potential, others completely threw out the lag, and it was a rocket boosted car.

[X5Jouster]

Originally Posted by r33

Of course, less restriction on the exhaust system, means more sound got released.
Based on my research, on the 50i, all you need is the free flow mid pipes. You can just leave the muffler alone.
I have suspicion that the car will be too loud with an aftermarket muffler.

thats why im dying to hear the GT HAUS with the valves...refinned and then all hell on earth

im currently looking for a top notch quality welder to put in straight pipe to replace the center resonators...havent found a welder that can really do top notch work around here.


im talking the porn of welding,,,,,i dont want no half ass jobs ive seen at some of these shops



do you know anyone who has removed these midpipe resonator on the 50i ?!?!! i need to hear this

[r33_RGSport]

@X5Jouster, in comfort and Eco-pro mode, the ECU controls the throttle to engine response and the trans to the wheel power delivery. With sport and sport+ mode, it pretty much acting as you have sprint booster.

While for the piping, this is what you want to get.

[X5Jouster]

Originally Posted by r33

@X5Jouster, in comfort and Eco-pro mode, the ECU controls the throttle to engine response and the trans to the wheel power delivery. With sport and sport+ mode, it pretty much acting as you have sprint booster.

While for the piping, this is what you want to get.

are those pipings specific to our vehicle with the 50i??

i was going to chop the resonators off and go straight or x pipe in place. shouldnt be more then $400-$500 fo the whole shebang

[r33_RGSport]

Originally Posted by X5Jouster

are those pipings specific to our vehicle with the 50i??

i was going to chop the resonators off and go straight or x pipe in place. shouldnt be more then $400-$500 fo the whole shebang

Yes, it is specific for 50i. Same piping as the E70.
I saw someone selling a used one at the E70 marketplace, but he added a resonator on the pipe.

[thedragonseven]

I have installed the Sprint Booster on my '06 E46 M3, '11 E92 M3, wife's '07 E85 Z4M, and my '14 F06 M6. I also helped my friend install it into his '09 E92 335iX

It isn't a "performance" gain, per se, just a feeling of more response when you press the gas pedal.

In the E46 M3 and E85 Z4M, it really is like hitting the sport button, where it sharpens drive-by-wire throttle response.

In the E92 M3 and F06 M6, there is no longer a single "sport" button, and now when you dial in sport(ier) modes it does tune more things.

The Sprint Booster, though, still does the same thing in shortening that foot-to-pedal-to-acceleration sensation.

There's effectively 3 settings on it which I'll call, null, +1, and +2. And you can try each setting to see how it feels and changes the drive-by-wire lag.

As someone noted earlier, it does nothing for turbo lag, and does nothing for the actual opening and closing of throttles. All it does is change the electrical signal that tells the throttles to open or close.

I guess one way to look at it is to take my grandmother and put her in a McLaren F1 versus say Tanner Foust.

With nerve, a very very straight and wide stretch of pavement, and patience my grandmother can reach the top speed. But it will take her more time to actually react, press down on the pedal, apply force, and hold down the pedal. Nothing about her sitting there changes the F1's abilities or top speed. It only changes how quickly the F1 reacts and applies my grandmother's "signals."

Put Tanner Foust into the McLaren F1 and he'll nail the top speed right away.

Hopefully that wasn't a completely ridiculous analogy.

In either case, in all 5 of the cars I have personal experience we dialed it in and tried the different settings to see what we liked and how it felt.

And in each case, putting it in either +1 or +2 did make perceived response time go down. The cars felt jumpier and quicker to move at the lightest touch of the pedal. And that's really all it's supposed to do. It won't get you more power, won't reduce 0-60 time, and won't reduce 1/4 mile time.

But it does feel better.

[thedragonseven]

I forgot that I also installed the Sprint Booster in my '09 E70 X5 4.8i, and it also made some noticeable improvements in drive-by-wire lag.