RVAE34's(five&dime) E34 M52 TRM blowthrough turbo install

[RVAE34]

My other thread had way too much noise and I have had several issues so I wanted to start another from start to now when I finally got it all straight....

Background on the car. I bought it back in 05. The car has ACS type III wheels 18x8.5 with 245/40/18's, Vogtland springs with Koni shocks, Powerflex subframe bushings & thrust arm bushings, new upper arms, Kmac trailing arms bushings, new center link, tie rods etc etc, Euro trim, M5 seats, Mtech sideskirts, 540 brake ducts, Euro Depo smileys with TSX projector retrofit that I have been doing for E30,34 folks for a bit now, 3k HID fogs, painted pillars black with PPG base,clear, wetsand and buff. Same for the wood trim on the 95 door panels.

A few years ago I built an M52 with S52 cams. New rings, bearings etc. I used a stock HG and the old style ARP studs. But then things kept coming up every time I tried to go FI... Until February/March of this year.

I bought the TRM blowthrough package and manifold. I got a Garret GT3076R with billet wheel .63 A/R, Tial 38mm WG and Tial QR BOV from Himni racing. Let's not get into any discussion about the BOV as it works just fine and it's all opinion on location etc. I wanted it to re-circulate and also be more quiet. Last time I had a thread that's all people seemed to talk about.. At the same time I also decided to upgrade brakes. Using the brackets Jon K made, I installed the Wilwood 6 piston calipers with EBC zinc slotted/dimpled E38 750il rotors.

My best friend and I did all the plumbing etc ourselves. Then I had a friend do the exhaust work. It's bottom mount. I was very limited with space under the car. The turbo is probably about the largest you can go without hitting the steering arm. There is about 1/4"+ space. Removed the windshield wiper bottle to make room for the intake. The IC is small for now as it's the biggest I could get in 2.5" thickness. I wanted to keep A/C so I ended up sandwiching the IC b/t the condensor and radiator. Not ideal but it will do for now. I was planning on having a custom IC made later. Budget limits me for now.. Since the radiator was moved, I had to ditch the mechanical fan and run a Mishimoto 16" slimline puller 1900cfm fan. I also ran the aux pusher fan (high speed) to come on whenever the car is on.

The PCV system is currently setup with the factory insert where the large tube goes to the intake pre-turbo and the small line is vent to atmosphere under the car. I plan on adding a catch can with exhaust bung in the next month or so.

I had some issues with the car running irregularly at first and went through the list of possibilities. It was quick sometimes, but sometimes felt more like N/A. Using a 8.6 lbs spring, I was only getting 6. Also thought I was hearing detonation but it turns out it was a broken water pump : Still... there were issues as a leak down showed 10% on 1, 2, 3 & 6 and 25% on 4 & 5. Compression was 175 on 1, 2, 3 & 6 and 160 on 4 & 5. Pulled it apart and expected HG but it seems it was all in the head. All exhaust valves were bad and some of the valve seals were torn. Had it re-built, new guides, seals, valve job, re-surface for MLS and shimmed valve springs.

I used a Cometic .14 MLS. Dry install. I used 3M roloc discs to clean the surface. White 120 grade. Since I had the old style ARP's, I went with the new style. Also went with the much better Stewart water pump, new belts, fuel pressure regulator, Behr radiator, new gaskets etc etc etc.

Since I used the Cometic .14 MLS, I decided to up the boost to 10-11 lbs with the lower compression. I would like to bump it up again but want to give it some time first to make sure everything is gravy.

At 10 lbs of boost the car was making 322 peak power at the wheels. I was still puking coolant sometimes after the car was parked so I decided to do a leakdown and compression test and low and behold I still had some issues. This time on #6. This time the results were 9-11% on 1-5 and 40% on 6. Compression was 145 on 1-5 and 120 on 6. Pulled it all down again expecting obvious smoking gun but the only signs were some slight issues on the MLS. I believe it was an improper install. I didn't thoroughly clean out the stud holes so I think I had trapped some oil/fluids in there when installing the studs. Stupid mistake I know but everyone starts/learns from the beginning.

This time, I cleaned the block surface with 400 gritt, then 3M rolocs. I also used hondabond on the timing chain area on the block side only. I then used the 3 step torque method on the ARP2000's where as I went to 32 the first night and let it sit. Then again the next morn. Followed by the next steps to 85. Seems to have worked like a charm as I did a leakdown again and all is well. Only just had it back together since Thursday so I haven't pushed it too hard yet.

Here are some photos of everything.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2291/2348559864_ed75ccd593_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2220/2355884962_20abe62029_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2293/2373986984_365ca8dbb4_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2035/2355051983_66a8984cb7_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2318/2352123677_9ea918d210_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3229/2414081643_410dbcee77_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5179/5475330958_4f0835223e_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5220/5481126146_c42390dabc_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5133/5480525069_2a42cdc742_b.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6124/6014124167_92715987ab_b.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6150/6014672610_a8f2d7534f_b.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6124/6015705627_3577ce9b2f_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5297/5480526059_fb308489ea_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5091/5481127294_babf5a6394_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5216/5480526525_4cced7a01c_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5058/5501220116_fa1a1dc309_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5260/5500626617_daf44c3593_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5058/5501220776_a0d32b3bcc_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2329/5707332708_8495a5c1ee_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2176/5707333596_6b3e2d2f5a_b.jpg

[RVAE34]

Some other photos of the car...

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2371/5794934701_343ddd26b4_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3323/5741848956_638003bbf7_b.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1424/1175808987_e91c03fed3_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2276/2121647836_a5c81d344f_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5124/5360873205_8a50ec5644_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5290/5361447226_bb11873edf_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2241/2254802199_302d19bb3e_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2407/2251417183_bcab32fd57_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5048/5361472547_3d0c428351_b.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6137/5994160658_1d2dc5614d_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5140/5507183557_70f1053a94_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5261/5565410554_a7618f9c5a_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2290/5700624993_fc2de00665_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3397/5700624539_95ce12902d_b.jpg

[Sr20Tz3]

very neat and clean install

[herrubermensch]

Absolutely beautiful. Nicely done. I garage my car in Richmond as well and would love to see your car in person sometime.

--Peter

[RVAE34]

Thanks! Anytime just shoot me a PM sometime.

[RVAE34]

New TRM tune is in and the car is running even better! WOT is low to mid 11's now and it feels super quick.

A few months ago when I had my last dyno run, cylinder #6 had 45% leakdown and with the old tune the A/F at WOT was 10-10.5 (even after the leakdown issue was fixed). It still made 322 RWHP.

I would guess it's higher now but I am also going to go ahead and put a 1 bar WG spring in when it arrives next week. Still needs more boost. Then off to the dyno Friday I hope :)

[M3GSX]

Looking great man. the E34's look mean. Keep up the good work.

[BavarianLove]

Hot damn, that is clean!

[EBM3WSNC]

holy bright lights!

[ritoab]

Interesting how the BOV is placed before the intercooler, Does it provide better response in that location or what?

[biglou911]

Interesting how the BOV is placed before the intercooler, Does it provide better response in that location or what?

Yea I've never seen this before either , but I guess as long as it works it's good . Nice looking car !!

Sent from my iPhone using BF.com

[RVAE34]

Yeah note the 4th paragraph in my first post. In my last thread, that's all anyone talked about.. Works just fine as you stated^ :)

[a32guy]

I never really cared for E34's but I've fallen in love with your car. Very very clean! I wouldn't change a thing. Nice work!!

[3literheater]

Great job!

I like how you have enough room to send the turbo pipes up right by the head instead of on the ground.

[Colby Colbs]

Dude do u have carbon fiber tables?

[Tanks95]

Clean install, looks nice.

[RVAE34]

Hehe yeah that's a carbon fiber dining table. But it's nothing too special. I majored in furniture design at school and unfortunately dissolved my business and sold off all my tools back in 03 so that's just a sheet of 12k thread CF on plywood under glass. I need to make borders for it. I still have 3 yards of CF and a gallon of resin left for a project. Some day..

Installed the spring but it's only making 12.5 lbs. And at WOT, the A/F starts at 11.5 but then creeps up to 12.4 so I was worried to keep on it..

Feels great with 12.5 lbs of boost though.

[RVAE34]

Noticed the A/F is hitting high 12's when the rpm's wind out at wot. My fuel pump is stock and probably original so dropping in a Walboro pump this weekend. I was going to get an aeromotive pump at Jon's suggestion but my best friend has an extra from his 2jz lexus swap and only needed one. Dyno appt Tues. Can't wait to post back with results. Also going to go ahead and install a catch can and a new flex guibo this weekend since my old one is starting to vibrate at wot.

[darrenforeal]

Noticed the A/F is hitting high 12's when the rpm's wind out at wot. My fuel pump is stock and probably original so dropping in a Walboro pump this weekend. I was going to get an aeromotive pump at Jon's suggestion but my best friend has an extra from his 2jz lexus swap and only needed one. Dyno appt Tues. Can't wait to post back with results. Also going to go ahead and install a catch can and a new flex guibo this weekend since my old one is starting to vibrate at wot.

nice. Take pics on how you modify and install the Walbro. I may have to do that eventually. I think there is a write-up in the e34 DIY but still. Also, make sure you don't start to pressurize the crank case with the catch can if you aren't drawing vacuum on it. I'm sure you'll be find but it's something to look out for based on what I went through.

I also can't wait to see the dyno results! And video;)

[RVAE34]

Yeah I plan on running it to the intake pre-turbo instead of running to the exhaust.

[darrenforeal]

Yeah I plan on running it to the intake pre-turbo instead of running to the exhaust.

cool. let me know how that goes! I may have to do that if I can't draw vacuum from the exhaust.

[EuroPartConnect]

For installing the walbro, cut a silicone coupler and wrap it around the pump until it fits snug in the factory hold down. Pop on the pre filter on the bottom and your set. Very easy once you get the assembly out.

[RVAE34]

Thanks for the tip. I have a small issue now that is driving me nuts. In 1st and 2nd gear only I am sometimes getting boost loss. Not all the time.. sometimes 1st and 2nd make 10lbs and sometimes it hits 10 and then starts to drop. If I go partial throttle in 1st and 2nd, it will only make 5 lbs. And even if I let off and then go wot again, still 5 lbs. But as soon as I hit 3rd and on, I am making 13. What the hell is going on with that? I unplugged the line to the bov to see if that was the cause but it actually seemed to make it a little worse.

Would greatly appreciate any advice or ideas. Thanks!

[RVAE34]

Figured it out :buttrock Simple fix. I decided to go ahead and pressure test the system again and sure enough.... Two couplers had small leaks past 12 lbs and I also figured out that the last time I was working on the WG and cut the zip ties holding the vacuum lines that go to the WG and BOV, the BOV line had fallen down and must have touched the head. There was a hole melted in it.

Now that all that's fixed, it's a total beast and the A/F ratio's are dead on so looks like I don't need a fuel pump either. I love it when they are easy like this.

Now off to the dyno on Tues :redspot

[Tanks95]

Figured it out :buttrock Simple fix. I decided to go ahead and pressure test the system again and sure enough.... Two couplers had small leaks past 12 lbs and I also figured out that the last time I was working on the WG and cut the zip ties holding the vacuum lines that go to the WG and BOV, the BOV line had fallen down and must have touched the head. There was a hole melted in it.

Now that all that's fixed, it's a total beast and the A/F ratio's are dead on so looks like I don't need a fuel pump either. I love it when they are easy like this.

Now off to the dyno on Tues :redspot

Awesome! The feeling of success

[herrubermensch]

Figured it out :buttrock Simple fix. I decided to go ahead and pressure test the system again and sure enough.... Two couplers had small leaks past 12 lbs and I also figured out that the last time I was working on the WG and cut the zip ties holding the vacuum lines that go to the WG and BOV, the BOV line had fallen down and must have touched the head. There was a hole melted in it.

Now that all that's fixed, it's a total beast and the A/F ratio's are dead on so looks like I don't need a fuel pump either. I love it when they are easy like this.

Now off to the dyno on Tues :redspot

Congrats on the diagnosis and solution. Where in Richmond do you dyno? I've used one place south of the river, but it was not the greatest.

--Peter

[RVAE34]

A friend of mine owns powertrain control solutions in Ashland. Great bunch of guys with an insane shop and lots of toys.

[herrubermensch]

A friend of mine owns powertrain control solutions in Ashland. Great bunch of guys with an insane shop and lots of toys.

Thanks. I'll have to give them a try. What kind of dyno do they have?

--Peter

[RVAE34]

The large dynojet with lift.

[darrenforeal]

good job man! It's so nice when things are simply and the results are outstanding.

[milKt]

good job man! It's so nice when things are simply and the results are outstanding.

Yup,
another man who had some set-backs,
some troubleshooting,
some frustration, I'm sure,
but persistence and patience pays off.

You had a gorgeous car before,
now it is an E34 God.

Congrats.

[RVAE34]

Thanks sooo much!!! Indeed it has been frustrating and it seemed I had one small issue after another. 8 months later and it's how I always dreamed it would be. Makes all the $ spent totally worth it where I had been second guessing myself and my sanity recently. It is now an absolute blast to drive! Zero lag to boot. Hope I am not let down by the dyno results. I would guess it has to be 360+ now if it was 322 before but regardless it's awesome!

[Tanks95]

Thanks sooo much!!! Indeed it has been frustrating and it seemed I had one small issue after another. 8 months later and it's how I always dreamed it would be. Makes all the $ spent totally worth it where I had been second guessing myself and my sanity recently. It is now an absolute blast to drive! Zero lag to boot. Hope I am not let down by the dyno results. I would guess it has to be 360+ now if it was 322 before but regardless it's awesome!

Don't let a dyno decide if you are having fun. Too many times a guy will have an awesome car, but will let a dyno make him feel differently. I like to go with how does it feel and does it fill my need, whatever that may be.

Enjoy

[RVAE34]

Oh I feel the same. I am just hoping my seat of the pants guess is right. It's much faster than when it was making 322 RWHP :alright

[RVAE34]

Car made 344 RWHP and 325 ft lbs. Made peak torque at 3300 RPM and pretty much held it with minor dip to 4400 RPM. Boost was 12.5 lbs and AFR was 12.5.

I think it would be perfect at like 14-15 lbs of boost.

Last time it was making 322 at 11.02 lbs so not bad for small boost increase. I picked up about 80hp at 5500 since I fixed my vacuum leak at the bov.

[BavarianLove]

Free horsepower:buttrock

[RVAE34]

Dyno. Boost is all over. Wonder if I still have a small leak somewhere.

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6211/6238508635_18a0277854_b.jpg

[BavarianLove]

Are you using a Mbc?

[RVAE34]

Nope. Just a spring.

[Colby Colbs]

12.5 afr up top is a little lean, no? Maybe you still do have a vac leak...

[darrenforeal]

nice. Yeah your boost seems to fluctuate between 11 and 13 to 14. Looking at my data logs, when I am at WOT my peak psi never fluctuates more than 1psi. It is usually within a few tenths. And I am using the Tial 38mm with a .5 bar spring. So you may have some little leak or something going on. Also I wouldn't want my peak AFr at WOT to be over 11.5. Maybe your higher AFr also signals a small leak too? Mine is something ridiculously rich right now, 10.3 to 10.9.

Where was the dyno taking you boost source from? Could something have been loosened when they tapped in?

[RVAE34]

Yeah it's possible as their boost reference was smaller than my line by a bit so they zip tied it. TRM said 12.5 is ok for this level as did my friends at PTCS. Still running stock pump. I bet it would be making 375 or so at 1 bar.

[hellrot98m3]

get a new pump on that thing all ready and turn her up

[BavarianLove]

get a new pump on that thing all ready and turn her up

Umm ya +1

[RVAE34]

Hehe. I don't want to go too crazy. I would be perfectly happy with 375. My turbo won't make much more... GT3076R with .63 a/r. I just want the boost to stay consistent.

[BavarianLove]

That turbo has to be good for 25psi+.

[darrenforeal]

the e34 fuel pump is also "apparently" good up to 400rwhp.

[exvitermini2]

If it had a boost leak it should go rich, not lean.

[RVAE34]

Wonder why the boost is all over the place then? I am referencing the intake manifold for the WG.

[milKt]

You may consider having the WG reference boost from charge pipe after IC prior to TB.
A few wise ones have suggested this to me.

[Tward]

Please tell me your going to eurofest in SC. I wanna see this car its my favorite E34

[darrenforeal]

You may consider having the WG reference boost from charge pipe after IC prior to TB.
A few wise ones have suggested this to me.

^this

or even right after the turbo. but the former will give you better response.

[RVAE34]

Please tell me your going to eurofest in SC. I wanna see this car its my favorite E34

Details?

[milKt]

^this

or even right after the turbo. but the former will give you better response.

Yes,
ON the compressor housing
or
after the inter cooler is what the knowledgeable ones suggested for WG reference.

[RVAE34]

Word.

[GG///M3]

Good stuff pass me a beer

[RVAE34]

:)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7143/6560248917_70c0dd167c_z.jpg

[Brody @ Miller]

the e34 fuel pump is also "apparently" good up to 400rwhp.

It IS good to 400 whp all day long

[darrenforeal]

:)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7143/6560248917_70c0dd167c_z.jpg


MONEY! Until you decide to get a 35r:devillook

[BadBoostedBmwM3]

Lol. I like the plates either way.

[Colby Colbs]

here we go... typical boost junky

[M5Hunter]

Nice!

[ar design]

Clean build, I dig it!

[tacoma330ci]

OP, did you ever figure out your boost variation issues?

[JackEatsEmoKids]

Any videos, I would love to hear it!

[RVAE34]

No good videos :( I haven't really messed with it lately. Although I have been trying to chase down a suspension noise that drives me nuts. After throwing everything new at it, I finally caved and gave it to my old indy to see what he could find. He said my Bavauto center drag link and tie rod ends were shot and total garbage. He also found my front subframe bolts looked corroded, one was loose and one broke. So he is now fixing those for me since he found those issues. Really hope it fixes the noise or I will go ape.


I have also been a busy sob trying to get my Xmas gift to the wife restored before spring :) I just bought $1k worth of rubber, seals, trim etc. It's going to be really nice. 85 cabriolet. Wife is a VW nut and is super excited. :) It's going to get painted 95 Volvo T5-R cream yellow and will get a nice drop. I am going to paint those 15" Corrado wheels satin silver. It will end up looking like this only pale yellow and a convertible of course.

http://img140.imageshack.us/img140/5773/dsc00267cz7.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7017/6570237067_c880ec8d50_z.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7031/6570228227_90071f3ed3_z.jpg


http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7164/6591480815_c25d647ee1_z.jpg


http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7029/6608545629_eeb3daa30a_z.jpg


http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7157/6614075675_7fceee21e8_z.jpg


http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7149/6622838663_b659760312_z.jpg

[darrenforeal]

That yellow one is siiicccckk. And I am sure the cab. will turn out sweet. That's a hell of a lot of work you are putting into it. I wouldn't even know where to begin with bodywork and paint.

[RVAE34]

It's the easiest damn car in the world to work on. I was amazed.

Yeah.. I have been paint etc doing it as a hobby for almost 10 years. Going to try and make this my best example yet. Priming it with PPG Epoxy primer this weekend. Then block sand, prime, block sand, prime, block sand :)

Followed by a few coats of yellow in Sikkens then wetsand, then another coat followed by 2-3 coats of PPG Urethane clear and 2000 wetsand and buff. The Misses can't wait. She will finally start coming to cars and coffee etc with me. I have to admit I am enjoying working on this thing so much that I might have to get myself a 79 MK1 GTI.

[///M3Vader4dr]

love builds w/ great pics! :)

[RVAE34]

No new updates on the E34 so here are some of the Cabriolet I am doing for my wife. I did all the paint work myself. Best one yet!! Also just finished installing Vogtland coilovers about 30 minutes ago :)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7150/6785076779_43defbb224_z.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7034/6809583823_fe9366e733_z.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7153/6809584895_4147272c43_z.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7003/6809586433_88dbe5631a_z.jpg

[herrubermensch]

It's the easiest damn car in the world to work on. I was amazed.

Yeah.. I have been paint etc doing it as a hobby for almost 10 years. Going to try and make this my best example yet. Priming it with PPG Epoxy primer this weekend. Then block sand, prime, block sand, prime, block sand :)

Followed by a few coats of yellow in Sikkens then wetsand, then another coat followed by 2-3 coats of PPG Urethane clear and 2000 wetsand and buff. The Misses can't wait. She will finally start coming to cars and coffee etc with me. I have to admit I am enjoying working on this thing so much that I might have to get myself a 79 MK1 GTI.

Dibbs on the E34 if you do!!! I mean it. I'm in Richmond (at least part of the time) and in the market for a white E34, so let me know!

--Peter

[RVAE34]

I meant as a DD :) Although money talks... Offer me enough and it's yours.

[Captain]

:lol

He never said ANYTHING about selling the E34...and if he did... :shifty

Lol


I meant as a DD :) Although money talks... Offer me enough and it's yours.

:eek:

Ohhhhhh rearry? Maybe time to stock pile some cash! Your car is near perfection in my book!

[M5Hunter]

VW looks good. Color looks funny compared to the pics you sent me, is it my monitor or the lighting in the pics?

[RVAE34]

It's the WB on my camera. The color is just like a stick of butter.

[herrubermensch]

Had the great pleasure of meeting Brandon and driving his E34 today, and it is a tremendous build and a beautiful car. Thanks, Brandon.

-Peter

[RVAE34]

Thanks Peter!! Glad I arrived just before the snow. Pleasure meeting you as well and getting to see the E39 up close. Cannot wait until it's all buttoned up and I can go for a ride. When I heard it that time last year, it made me weak in the knees.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7053/6909687451_174cfc5046_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7070/6909688093_b2f2d375f8_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7063/6909690409_71904ef421_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7179/6909692853_4e21936f95_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7041/6909694489_d2a9615981_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7191/6909695367_28052de83f_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7055/6909695999_0714477a40_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7057/6909696693_7b505d1480_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7207/6909697447_5b7267cbc7_b.jpg

[aaron22388]

Yeah I can kind of see how that would make someone weak in the knees. Your car looks amazing as always, hopefully one day I will make it to cars and coffee to see it but here lately I've had the opening shifts at work on Saturdays.

[ar design]

Looks nice!

[EuroPartConnect]

What the deal with the e34? Not interested in the e39.

[RVAE34]

Haven't done anything else under the hood. Replaced all the stereo. Polk MM5250 2 ohm 5.25 highs, Kicker L7 2 ohm DVC square 10" and Kenwood KIV-701 head unit. Sounds awesome.

It's starting to feel slow so I guess I should get a boost controller and up the boost to 16. I kind of want to get another vehicle again before I push it too hard.

I started feeling a little hesitation or miss in 3rd-5th under load at lower RPM's just when you start to step on it. I want to replace the plugs first as they are a year old. Also thinking I should just go ahead and replace the coils since they are original to the car. I think this weekend I will also pressure test everything and check for any air leaks. It's been maintenance free for about a year so a good run through is in order. My best friend still has a Walbro fuel pump for me so perhaps I can get that in as well. First nice weekend this year so I am motivated.

[SiGmA]

Smart of you to buy another car before you start turning it up more :D

[RVAE34]

Installed a Mishimoto oil catch can and a Greddy Profec B II boost controller. Also took some new pix of the bay with the 50mm. Loving it at about 15 lbs. Think I need more fuel before I go any higher.

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5075/6897197108_1f5276231e_b.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5324/6897197404_016f52f8e0_b.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5200/7043292857_28fb37b5c5_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7082/7043293425_a6c8d1fd65_b.jpg

[buttrpcanprican]

I met the guys at ptcs my friend matt tunes there he tuned my s2000 and ex bro inlaws turbo nsx. Im taking my e36 when i get a standalone for him to tune.

[RVAE34]

The Turners are great guys.

[M5Hunter]

He does still have the internet!! lol. Pics are great, as usual.

[buttrpcanprican]

Car looks good.

[Captain]

yup, easily the most factory looking setup of all time. I love your car!!

[Tanks95]

Installed a Mishimoto oil catch can and a Greddy Profec B II boost controller. Also took some new pix of the bay with the 50mm. Loving it at about 15 lbs. Think I need more fuel before I go any higher.

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5075/6897197108_1f5276231e_b.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5324/6897197404_016f52f8e0_b.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5200/7043292857_28fb37b5c5_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7082/7043293425_a6c8d1fd65_b.jpg

Car Looks Great man.

[darrenforeal]

:buttrock

[RVAE34]

Thanks everyone!

Can someone remind me what the a good safe max boost pressure would be for my M52 with stock internals, .14 MLS, ARP 2000's and the TRM tune with my GT3076R and .68 A/R?

I had heard 18-20 max but want to get more opinions. Currently running 15 lbs and am just getting a little nervous. Most of the time the A/F is at 11.5-12 but sometimes at WOT it will spike to 12.5-12.9 which scares me. I thought I heard a bit of knocking right when I went WOT in 3rd gear but am not positive.

Last year TRM stated they could add a point of fuel or two so I am waiting to hear back from them. I want to install a Walbro 255 and my best friend has an extra one not being used in his Lexus GS but he has 2 mounted in the tank and hasn't felt like removing the second one. Is it ideal to add fuel via the tune or should I just get the Walbro to be sure I am getting good supply?

[hellrot98m3]

Your running a stock pump still? I would be careful if your seeing 12.9 at wot. Did it always do that? How old is your a/f sensor?

[RVAE34]

Yup still on the stock pump and the sensor is about a year old. Plan on getting a new sensor in a few days when I go to PCTS and throw her on the dyno as I did notice it stick at 15-15.1 the other day after about 10 minutes. Even after a re-calibration.

It only hits that AFR every now and then and only for a split second when I watch the gauge. It's odd that it's inconsistent.

[darrenforeal]

15 for a split sec at WOT??

[mad skilz]

Car is looking pretty good man!

Do you have any datalogs of your A/F? I would probably want to get a little more fuel to the car before upping the boost.

I still havent seen that thing since its been boosted, next time Im in town I need to check it out

[RVAE34]

Darren,

12.5-12.9 AFR for a split second at WOT before it drops to 11.5. The AFR gauge gets stuck at 15-15.1 after it warms up for about 5-10 minutes under normal driving. Even after re-calibration.

I agree on upping the fuel too Phil. I am going to set it at 13.5 lbs until I either get a new tune or a new fuel pump. Perhaps the pump is too worn to transition that fast when I go WOT?

[darrenforeal]

Darren,

12.5-12.9 AFR for a split second at WOT before it drops to 11.5. The AFR gauge gets stuck at 15-15.1 after it warms up for about 5-10 minutes under normal driving. Even after re-calibration.

I agree on upping the fuel too Phil. I am going to set it at 13.5 lbs until I either get a new tune or a new fuel pump. Perhaps the pump is too worn to transition that fast when I go WOT?


hmmm...Ok, that's not as huge of a deal. I'll take a closer look at my car today to see see it does that same thing. But that may or may not be a tune thing. Sometimes at idle my afr will go between 17 and 13. But that's weird yours gets stuck. Like you probably think, it's probably a O2 sensor issue.

Also fwiw I have been told by numerous people that the e34 stock fuel pump is good up to around 400hp. So, translated that into psi for your car i guess... Or just be safe and stick a walbro in. lol

[RVAE34]

Wow!! Hadn't looked at the price of the pumps in a while. Much cheaper than when I bought my last one so I ordered one from a company in MD with the sock and harness. Hoping it arrives this weekend.

I posted in the E34 section as well but does anyone know if the E34 runs 12v to the pump at all times when the car is on or does it transition from 9v-12v under WOT similar to Toyota? My best friend thought that might be the reason I get that quick blip at 12.5-12.9 AFR when I go WOT.

[darrenforeal]

looked at the afr more closely today. When I am in 5th gear at around 3000-3300rpm I am seeing the standard 14ish afrs and vacuum somewhere between 10 and 20hg. When I go into boost by going WOT, without rolling into it, my afr gauge bleeps up to 16ish for not even a split sec, then hits 12ish and settles in at 11.9 to 11.2 at WOT at full boost. Also no problems to ever report with this situation. Michael has also seen some of my datalogs and says it looks fine, so I am not worried.

[RVAE34]

I swear I heard some pinging when it happened in 3rd at 15 lbs the other day which scared the crap out of me. I tried 4 times and heard it 2 out of 4 times even though the AFR's seemed to be consistant. At least this time I know it's not my water pump :) Just going to keep it under 14 lbs until I get the pump.

[darrenforeal]

I swear I heard some pinging when it happened in 3rd at 15 lbs the other day which scared the crap out of me. I tried 4 times and heard it 2 out of 4 times even though the AFR's seemed to be consistant. At least this time I know it's not my water pump :) Just going to keep it under 14 lbs until I get the pump.

yeah probably a good call. I won't go over 14 or 15 with my bottom end. But yours is fresh, so I dunno.

[RVAE34]

My turbo is smaller. I cannot recall but did you install a thicker MLS HG? That paired with the fact that I was at 343 RWHP at 12.5 lbs makes me feel relatively comfortable cranking it up a bit to get close to 400 RWHP. I would probably be happy with 375 at the wheels. For a bit :)

I plan on doing rods and pistons next year once I get another vehicle to drive.

[darrenforeal]

My turbo is smaller. I cannot recall but did you install a thicker MLS HG? That paired with the fact that I was at 343 RWHP at 12.5 lbs makes me feel relatively comfortable cranking it up a bit to get close to 400 RWHP. I would probably be happy with 375 at the wheels. For a bit :)

I plan on doing rods and pistons next year once I get another vehicle to drive.

Yeah, my turbo is maybe a little bit bigger, but I also did the .140 mls. But I also have a m50 bottom end with 170k on it. The plan is to build a built 3.0L next year, and get a different turbo too maybe. GT35ish type deal. I am also competing with the e34 in audio competitions, so I don't beat on it now because it needs to stay together. lol

[RVAE34]

Installed the Walbro and took it for a quick test drive. Is it normal for the AFR's to drop from 11-12 at WOT to 9-10 initially? At first it ran like crap it was so rich. I am surprised it made that much of a difference if so. Is it ideal to get a new tune now or will the computer adjust after a few days?

Talked to Michael at TRM and he answered all my questions. Now to get her on the dyno again for a new tune. Shooting for 400 RWHP now. If the turbo will get me there...

[RVAE34]

It's time for my annual eBay listing :) Many people know I've had the itch to build an E39 touring for years now. Maybe a 2% chance my car will sell so if it does, awesome. If not, awesome.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1992-BMW-E34-525i-5-speed-Alpine-black-Turbo-M52-Wilwood-ACS-etc-/110861922049?pt=US_Cars_Trucks&hash=item19cfe2af01

[milKt]

I just "pre'd".

[RVAE34]

I just "pre'd".

:dunno

[milKt]

So clean, so :drool:

[RVAE34]

Thanks! I figure this is as good as it's going to get without pulling the motor again and do forged internals and either different turbo or bump to .8+ A/R. Rather than do that, I would kind of rather start a new project. Clay has me hooked on LS.

[milKt]

LS, Schmell Ess,

only slightly hell yes.

[RVAE34]

Put her on the dyno again today since I recently installed a boost controller and Walbro fuel pump. It's running too rich so it was real choppy up top. Only a 7hp increase over my last run but a 25 ft lb torque increase :) Sent the run files to TRM and I cannot wait to get my new tune. The owner of PTCS thinks it will make b/t 380-400 RWHP when I get a proper tune.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7064/7096807995_9df27a7158_b.jpg

[M5Hunter]

Dont blame me for wanting to sell this masterpiece!!! =)

[RVAE34]

Hahahaha. It's not your fault. It's the sound yours makes... And all that torque potential. I am almost maxed. You are just getting started.

I went back and looked at my last dyno sheet and wanted to get some opinions on the comparison. Both of these are on the same tune. The old run pictured below is too lean and the new one above is too rich. But they both break up after 4500. The owner of PTCS thinks it's just the AFR's and a more aggressive tune will fix it. But both dyno sheets show a drop after 4500. Is it possible that they would both drop like that due to incorrect AFR's or is it more likely that something else is to blame?

I asked him about the choppy boost and he said that their boost reader is crap on the dyno and the gauge is the ideal measure. Both the VDO and the Greddy Profec-b were showing a very consistent pressure at 15 lbs and to ignore the fluctuations on the sheet. The above/new dyno sheet was on spring only and the below/new dyno was on the profec b.

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6211/6238508635_18a0277854_b.jpg

[M5Hunter]

Had the privilege of driving the e34 today. The car is a blast! Power delivery is great and the car handles awesome. Thanks again for the opportunity to cruise around in it!

[BadBoostedBmwM3]

There must be more left in your gt30. Is it a 71 or 76? Years ago.... Cam and the guy from Australia (Kenny IIRC) made ~500whp.
The guy from Australia (Kenny IIRC) made enough power to runs 10s and trap ~135+mph.

[RVAE34]

76. I certainly hope so. Just odd that it breaks up after 4000 RPM. I have re-built the vanos and set the timing on the cams 3-4 times so it shouldn't be that.

Thanks Clay!! I also got to drive his car which is a torque monster! Absolutely a blast to drove and the sound is pure sex.

We took our cars up to the local cars and coffee meet together. Great BMW turnout this week. As you can see Clay's car brings all the boys to the yard. On the way home we did a single file pull from about 15-120. It was really close but Clay started pulling on me at about 80-90.

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5458/6953132648_fd8f59de8b_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7179/6953125218_8e79fbcbaf_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7124/7099193895_56146d6455_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7039/6953118024_c4bd8535f3_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7086/7099189483_106de4fbf3_b.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5345/7099202241_1a966c273e_b.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5152/6953130970_1274a05cbc_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7179/7099199325_cd4be44005_b.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5114/7099187307_e81e476ca9_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7071/6953114130_2a7d28d190_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7240/6953115478_b8849d33f2_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7093/7099199963_ddb4c32b73_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7270/7099198561_b5529db82b_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7049/6953127842_a46c069638_b.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5349/6953127252_4cebe88b88_b.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5322/6953126760_b966bce0fe_b.jpg

[RVAE34]

Since my last dyno, I got new coils, new plugs and my new tune from TRM and the car is noticeably faster and the AFR's are now averaging around 10.8. I still am unsure if the coils were related to the breakup above 4k in the dyno so I hope to go back soon.

I am really interested in adding a datalogger and am curious what you guys are using. I would like to keep the bugdet under $300 if possible.

[BavarianLove]

So you have 0 beak up now?

[RVAE34]

I won't know until I get back on the dyno. I don't feel anything but the dyno is the fact checker.

[darrenforeal]

I am really interested in adding a datalogger and am curious what you guys are using. I would like to keep the bugdet under $300 if possible.


i promise you will love it. I also have the "black box" recorder that records to a micro sim card. So I don't have to hook my laptop up. I record every time I turn on the car.


http://www.zeitronix.com/Products/zt2/zt2.shtml

[RVAE34]

Right in my price range. Thanks Darren. I will look into that. Sucks that I just replaced the sensor on my innovate LC-1. Would have rather used that money towards this or something similar.

[RVAE34]

Had quite the productive day. Pressure tested the system and found that the line to my BOV was leaking. Fixed that and then went over to my best friends house. He welded a 1/4" boost feed nipple to the pipe just off the turbo hot side out. This provides a dedicated line to the boost controller and since the turbo out, WG and BC are so close, it eliminated a lot of excess run and feels more responsive. When I left I noticed the boost gauge fluctuated like the dyno sheet. My best friend had a theory and checked Tial's site and sure enough, when using a boost controller, you are supposed to run a boost line to the top and side of the WG. Mine only has the top line hooked up from spring only. To test this theory, I switched the BC off and using just the spring, the boost held constant at 10. Now that my boost gauge has a dedicated line it's also more accurate which is how I picked it up. Before, it didn't move like that. Rather than running a T to both WG lines, he is going to weld another 1/4 " fitting right below the one added today. Can't wait to get it all straight.

Also took some pix of his car. 01 Lexus GS400 with Aristo 2JZvvti, Supra 5 speed and a BW turbo. It's makind 450 RWHP at 11 lbs on stock tune!! He is shooting for 700 RWHP when tuned.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7268/7146488721_e7d78cc926_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7249/7000402158_8a5bf42e62_b.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5195/7146487249_4cb0748662_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7124/7146486169_f1e80ec541_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7226/7146664919_b960844de5_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7139/7000577480_0d058ebb3c_b.jpg

[Tanks95]

mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm clean

[milKt]

Nice photos from the meet. QUite a range of different cars and all CLEAN, delicious.

GS2jZ :drool:

So sweet a sedan. Can you imagine. There's a gentleman local to us here who has built multiple 600-700whp IS/GS cars. He does it with his eyes closed, builds harnesses and tunes MS for fun, basically.

So yummy.

[RVAE34]

My best friend does everything himself. He is using MAP-ECU III for his application and was making me consider the same as it is a great datalogger and can be used for boost control, launch control etc. But being that I don't know how to tune, I think I will probably just end up getting a datalogger.

[milKt]

Yeah,
IDK what the standard ECM is for the toy/LEx inline love is,
but this local gent is helping a guy in my neighborhood to tune his Datzilla S110 with a fresh 3tc turbo project. They're hoping to have her purring within a week or two.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b4/13b200sx/rims3.jpg

[RVAE34]

Oh my :eyecrazy

That is going to be a sweet machine when done. Please keep me updated on that or give me a link to build.

[RVAE34]

Getting the second fitting welded tomorrow for another dedicated line to correctly plumb the WG for the boost controller. Can't wait to feel it when the pressure isn't moving around. Also going to put the 8.7 lb spring back in.

[RVAE34]

Finally got a DD so the E34 can be more of a garage queen. No more rain or winter driving. The DD is turbo too which is cool. And it's a touring. I will give a hint before I have photos. My vanity plate will be ARRGGHH.

[RVAE34]

Sorry to go OT everyone. But I am just really excited about my DD. And now the E34 can have down time without it being an issue should I want more power :)

Here she is.. 2004 Volvo V70 R with 81k miles.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7095/7267740900_eb06727120_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7230/7267741704_9147fcf596_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7102/7267742716_ccd2efb5f7_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7243/7267744316_7bb2471be4_b.jpg

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8153/7267733982_00e46b71a0_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7222/7267735086_cda6f52852_b.jpg

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8148/7267735802_14fb49763e_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7078/7267739056_838a013865_b.jpg

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8154/7267739806_f2fece4ed2_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7105/7267740214_a49f90d5b3_b.jpg

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8017/7268213550_479fee515c_b.jpg

[BobRoss]

Sweet wagon man. 'Grats!

[ar design]

very nice!!!

[darrenforeal]

niiiiccceee

[Captain]

I see you've scratched your turbo wagon itch! lol.

[RVAE34]

For now...

[RVAE34]

Went to my ole man's for dinner. I posted a thread with our "family photos" but these were my favorite.

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1849167

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7101/7360040000_ce59058c28_c.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7235/7174840873_25bc94b292_c.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7082/7174841291_bf517af701_c.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7244/7360066942_92e5fe48fe_c.jpg

[RVAE34]

No real updates on the E34 except that I did install a new CSB and guibo which makes the car much more fun to drive.

The big news is that my wife is 16 weeks pregnant and today I found out it's going to be a boy!!! New lil turbo BMW fanatic in the works :)

That is all.

[mad skilz]

Congrats man!

[RVAE34]

Thanks Phil! btw, still have your cam position sensor whenever you are in town again..

[RVAE34]

I've been primarily working on the V70R (new system, wheels, custom projector retrofit, IPD grill, ultra racing rear lower chassis brace, all new front suspension etc etc) but after Bimmerfest, I want to get back on the E34.

[5mall5nail5]

Brandon face it, the car is slow...

:)

[RVAE34]

Indeed it is.