Benfer Intakes Anyone? *This GP is Now Closed*

[ASCH MAN]

Edit by Administrator:This Group Purchase is now closed.

Who would be interested in starting a GB on Benfer Intakes. I have seen other GB's on this intake as low as $100.

I have an E36 M3 and would buy this intake if the price could get to $150 Shipped with the K&N upgrade. That price is for an intake very similar to the DINAN style, but is not Carbon Fiber.

Anyone have enough drive to start this one up?

Come on, lets get that price to $100. :cool:

[outkastaliens]

hey man, for that price, i would be down for sure.

[ASCH MAN]

I sent off an e-mail to the company to see what kind of prices we can get depending on how many people are involved. I don't mind keeping track of all the buyers, but once we get everyone ready and committed to the purchase, I would rather Benfer deal with the money exchange.

Will keep everyone posted on prices.

[outkastaliens]

not that i don't trust you, but that is the better thing to do, have them deal with money. But these things are on ebay for 150, so the 100 i hope is achievable

[woadyson]

I'm down for one, but with the bypass valve thingie

[tasty]

The owner is actually a member here. There was a post in general I think about them and I replied in it. I have one of them on my car. Do a search for benfer and you'll find it.

[ASCH MAN]

Do you happen to know his username? I am still waiting for a reply to my e-mail regarding possible prices. I will PM him too so we can get the ball rolling. I think that there is a lot of interest in an inexpensive intake. I can post on several forums to generate a lot of interest and potential buyers.

[Grantbo]

I'm in the process of looking for an intake right now, so yes I'm very interested if a GB materializes.

[BFP, Inc.]

Hey guys, I just logged in and saw both the emails from people, and this thread, and I felt that the thread would be the quickest way to answer all of the questions...

First of all, we'd be open to a group buy on the intakes, however, I am hesitant to bring a buy over here without admin approval because we aren't sponsors. The people on E46fanatics/Bimmervibe were pretty cool about the GB we held before we sponsored their board(s), but I am not familiar with the admin over here. If they are anything like nazifly, the GB wouldn't stand a chance (actually, this thread would have already been blown away).

So pending admin approval of this thread and the buy, we'd be more than happy to conduct a GB with Audioman acting as an intermediary to keep track of who wants what - and us handling the money side of it. This is how a previous GB worked, and it went very smoothly...

Here would be the pricing and terms;

Base Intake / K&N upgrade / AEM Bypass upgrade

Retail: $150.00 / $30.00 / $40.00

5 ppl - $130.00 / $20.00 / $35.00
10-20 - $120.00 / $20.00 / $35.00
20-30 - $110.00 / $20.00 / $35.00
30+ - $100.00 / $20.00 / $35.00

Shipping/Handling in the US will be a flat $10.00, Canada is $20.00, UK is $40.00. Canada/UK will ship USPS and the US will go out FedEx ground.

Pending admin approval, we will set a time table for this buy to take place. It will be something like 3 weeks from the date of the GB's inception to spread the word and sign as many people as possible up, and one week to pay. Intakes will ship in the order of payment recieved once the word is given to pay. Do not pay early, as the price may lower.

If we go forward with this, I will expound on payment methods, how to specify which car this is going on/color options, etc. For now, someone (maybe AudioMan?) needs to approach admin and gain approval for the buy.

Regards,

-SB

[ASCH MAN]

Originally posted by SBenfer


If we go forward with this, I will expound on payment methods, how to specify which car this is going on/color options, etc. For now, someone (maybe AudioMan?) needs to approach admin and gain approval for the buy.

Regards,

-SB


I am on top of this. It would be great to see this group buy materialize and I don't see any reason why we could not hit at least 15 people. 30 would be great. Thanks for the reply and I have no problems keeping track of interested parties.

[ASCH MAN]

SB (Steve?),

I tried to PM you but it kept rejecting it. Anyway, I have been given permission by a moderator to go ahead with this Group Purchase. Could you elaborate in this thread what information people need to consider with this purchase and I will be the point of contact (Color choice, options, what vehicles are applicable E36 and E46?)?

As you mentioned, three weeks sounds like a good amount of time to compile interested parties.

If we start the three weeks now (or by this Saturday), then all orders should be in to me by the 17th of May. Payment to you should be completed by all individual parties by the 24th of May.

Does that sound about correct? Thanks and look forward to doing business with you.

-Elliott

[D_ALPINE_M]

Hey tasty any good gains on your car with this intake system?

JAY

[Grantbo]

What's the level of filtration of the stock PAR filter as opposed to the K&N. Is there any data to support one giving higher flow or better filtration over the other? I've used K&N's in the past, but there are other options out there, but there use seems to driven by opinions and not data. Thanks.

[ASCH MAN]

Grantbo, I will let Mr. Benfer give you the details, but as I see it I can buy a filter cleaning kit for the K&N down the street at the auto parts store. Not sure where to get a cleaning kit for the "standard" cone filter. My guess is that they are very similar in filtration properties. If you plan on upgrading the filter later to something like an ITG filter, then just get the standard one now and save some $$. Hell, I can almost find $100 worth of change around my house in jars and change banks, and the couch.

[tasty]

Jay it's hard to say if I got gains. I put it on very shortly after I got the car and I put a chip in at the same time. It has a sexy sound to it though if nothing else.

[Justin2]

Audioman,
Please put me on the list.

Thanks

[BFP, Inc.]

Dear group buy members,

I would like to thank AudioMan for organizing and maintaining this group buy, and I would like to thank those of you interested in participating in it. Here are the specifics of the group buy…

Schedule:
We will be opening the buy up to people for three weeks, beginning today – 4/24/2003, and ending on Friday, May 16th 2003. After may 16th, we will have a final count and payments can be sent in (see payment info below). Payments will be accepted for one week during the week of the 18th, and intakes will ship in the order received. Shipping will begin Memorial day week (the 26th). PLEASE PM AUDIOMAN IF YOU ARE INTERESTED! Need to know: First Name, Last Name, Email Address, Bimmerforums Username, Year/Model of your car, Headlight configuration (for E46 customers, halogen, xenon, or bi-xenon), logo/no logo, and AEM/K&N options.

Costs

http://www.benferperformance.com/images/gbpricing.jpg

(Our last GB had 54 people)

Color Options:
You can choose from four colors: matte black, metallic black, metallic blue, and silver. The metallic black looks like BMW's cosmos, and the silver looks like arctic silver.

http://www.benferperformance.com/ebay/images/customcolors.jpg

*You can specify no logo if you want for an extra $5.00*


Payment Methods:

Paypal: sales@benferperformance.com

Mail:
Benfer Performance
4370 La Jolla Village Drive #400
La Jolla, CA 92122

Please make sure you have payment in by the 25th of May. All payments made by mail MUST BE RECEIVED BY THEN. Paypal payments accepted up until Midnight of the 25th.
K&N Filters and AEM bypass valve info:
We’re passing these on to group buy members at little to no profit to ourselves. K&N filter upgrades will cost $20.00 (retail of $56 on this unit), and AEM bypass valves will cost $35.00 (retail of $59 on this unit). We offer the same upgrades on Ebay for $30.00 and $40.00 respectively, so not only are you guys saving $50.00 on the intake, you’re also saving $15.00 on the combined filter and bypass valve. If you would like an extra coupling to replace the AEM bypass valve when it’s not wet out, it will be an additional $5.00.

Shipping: Shipping for all orders will remain at $10.00 ea. within the continental USA. Canada shipping is $20, UK is $40.

Thanks again for your patience and participation guys. We will be sending out group emails during the GB, and will be here every day to answer your questions.

Sincerely,

-BFP

[Jademonkey]

I am in as well.
Should I be emailing someone, or is this good enough?

[rollnbmwdroptop]

I am very interested, but what are the gains on this intake (dynoed results)? What company makes the basic filter? Great price though if we can get 30+!

[speshuled619]

id like to see the price drop to $100 also.

[Franchise]

the more i read the more i want bfp intake...maybe ill just buy it off ebay since i'd rather not wait that long to get it...

[ASCH MAN]

Franchise, why don't you just wait another 3 weeks and save $50?:dunno

[jasonwachtl]

I'm in, sent pm to you audioman

[ponq]

Does it come with a heat shield, does it need one?
I guess I could make my own, but I hope it has one already.

[outkastaliens]

it does not need a heat shield because it is routed almost under your fog light. If engine heat gets all the way down there, you have trouble anyways, but a heat shield will do you no good.

[ponq]

Thanks, I kind of figured. Just wanted another opinion.

[Kramer]

Can this be mounted with Eliipsoids? I know the Dinan cannot without doing a bunch of mods.

[dan330]

I have one on my car and it works great. Price is great!
I purchased mine on the www.bimmervibe.com GB 3 months ago.

Very simple to install and the material used is high quality.
Go to www.bimmervibe.com to see other reviews and comments from other customers.

Why spend more $$$ on other makes????? :)

[Yellowmann]

Originally posted by dan330
I have one on my car and it works great. Price is great!
I purchased mine on the www.bimmervibe.com GB 3 months ago.

Very simple to install and the material used is high quality.
Go to www.bimmervibe.com to see other reviews and comments from other customers.

Why spend more $$$ on other makes????? :)

Hi everyone, As you know from Benfer website I was featured on there :D

Here was the review that was done on BimmerVibe and everything you will need to know from DIY install, Sound clips and review.

http://www.bimmervibe.com/phorum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=851

All I can say is Steve has a product that is the best bang for the buck. Still very happy with my Benfer CAI :buttrock

If anyone has any questions please let me know.

Charlie

[Yellowmann]

Originally posted by rollnbmwdroptop
I am very interested, but what are the gains on this intake (dynoed results)? What company makes the basic filter? Great price though if we can get 30+!

Did you say dyno result.... here is one from Ed :D

http://www.bimmervibe.com/phorum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=766&highlight=benfer

[Lanchai]

Does it fit Euro Spec? 3.5" (95 M3)

[BFP, Inc.]

Some answers:

-We have had customers fit our intake with ellipsoids (sp?) without cutting into the headlights, though I don't have any specific pics or instructions.

-We can accomodate the 3.5" MAF. Please specify if you have it with order.

-Bi-xenon E46's are no problem. The ballast is relocated to the side of the radiator expansion tank with some hi-temp double sided 3M stuff.

-The intake doesn't currently have a heat shield, though the filter is WAY down in the bumper. Any forward moving airflow will hit the filter first.

-BFP

[KaOTiKM3]

hey Audioman, just pmed you my info...

[dan330]

SBenfer,

I was part of the GB at bimmervibe 3 months ago.
I want to purchase only the cover for my bypass. The part that was $5.

Can I paypal you and will you mail me that part?

thanks
dan330

[ASCH MAN]

GROUP BUY UPDATE


We are now up to 24 people and I have other forums to check. I don't see a problem with hitting 30 in the next few days, much less 3 weeks. Keep the orders coming and see if anyone you know would like one too.

By the way, Bimmerforums is just about tied with E46Fanatics.com for orders. What is that all about? Lets see more bimmerforums representation on my sheet.

Keep the word going around that this group buy is here. Thanks.


EDIT: JUST HIT 26!!

[Lanchai]

Is it ok to drive in rain if I am using this intake? It is because it is just behind the bumper. It seems not being protected from water.

[rollnbmwdroptop]

I'm in if it will fit with my ellipsoids!

[KaOTiKM3]

Originally posted by Lanchai
Is it ok to drive in rain if I am using this intake? It is because it is just behind the bumper. It seems not being protected from water.

I think this was already discussed but unless you submerge the car in a relatively deep amount of water there is a minimal chance of hyrdo-lock but if your still concerned just get the AEM Bypass valve and all your worries will be solved...

[Lanchai]

what is the AEM Bypass upgrade for? WHat is the AEM stand for? Thanks!

[Lanchai]

I got the info on AEM bypass filter from thw web!
I am in!
How much is it for the shipping to Hong Kong

----------------
95 m3 (Eurospec)

[negari]

I am possibly interested depending on my current situation with BMW.. I will let you guys know within the 3 weeks:clap:

[Mojo325is]

couple of questions......
1) anyone notice a great difference in the Benfer CAI over other models/stock system?
2) can this run off a stock engine (no chip, no other mods)

thanks guys...

Adam

[KaOTiKM3]

Originally posted by Mojo325is
couple of questions......
1) anyone notice a great difference in the Benfer CAI over other models/stock system?
2) can this run off a stock engine (no chip, no other mods)

thanks guys...

Adam

I would say the greatest advantage over other systems that this intake has is the price advantage, you can't go wrong with an $100 CAI and it looks like a quality system...after all it is just a pipe with a filter on the end...

I don't see why there would be a problem with a stock engine, its just increasing dense airflow...

[ASCH MAN]

Like the post above, you can't go wrong for only $100. We are at 29 people right now and I still have other forums to check for PM's.

You will get more power out of your 325 with this intake, and if you run searches on intakes, they all produce about the same amount of power (within 1-3 HP of each other). The only exception to that is short ram intakes without heatshields. Those are the one's on EBAY for like $35. They just suck in hot air from the engine and probably net a gain of 1 HP over the stock airbox.

You will be happy with this mod, not only for the power, but the wonderful sound of your car at wide open throttle.

PM me with your details if you are still interested.



Originally posted by Mojo325is
couple of questions......
1) anyone notice a great difference in the Benfer CAI over other models/stock system?
2) can this run off a stock engine (no chip, no other mods)

thanks guys...

Adam

[ASCH MAN]

The official list now stands at 36!! If you are on it, you should have gotten a reply from me after your PM stating that I have received your order.

I really appreciate all the bimmerforum support on this deal, it has helped everyone involved get a great deal on this intake.

Looking forward to installing it.

[BFP, Inc.]

Hey guys, checking email/boards on the weekend (checked boards first, email will be answered later today or tomorrow)...

Here's the deal...

This has moved much more quickly than any of us expected, so on Friday (5/2) we will cap the GB and start collecting $$ from people so we can push this through ASAP for the people involved. It's been something like 3-4 days, and we've got nearly 40 people.

BTW, since we've reached the lowest price, people can start paying to sales@benferperformance.com, or sending check/MO to

Benfer Performance, Inc
4370 La Jolla Village Drive #400
La Jolla, CA 92122

Here's pricing in the US...

CAI + Shipping = $110
CAI + K&N + Shipping = $130
CAI + K&N + AEM + Shipping = $165.00
CAI + K&N + AEM + No Logo + Shipping = $170.00

Shipping to Canada is $20, UK is $40, outside of the UK internationally is $80.00. If outside of the UK shipments are significantly less than $80.00 we will refund the difference to be fair.

Remember, intakes will ship in the order recieved. In your payment, YOU NEED to include all of the vital info that you gave Audioman for the spreadsheet so we can confirm options. At this point it looks like we could ship as early as the 12th, through the 23rd. (We have to spread it out because at numbers over 30, we may have to wait for different components to come it. We're placing new inventory orders Monday for the excess)

I'll get the spreadsheet from audioman and compile a group email list which will contain info/updates/etc which will go out once or twice per week.

-SB

P.S. Dan330, go ahead and paypal $5.00 for the extra coupling and we'll have one out to you ASAP.

[Khoalty]

SBenfer: That is what I talking about customer service, you guys keep up the good work. I am waiting for the one piece setup and hopefully I can put one on my car :). I think I need a change on my setup.

Khoa

[325is]

Im in for the group buy guys. Great product, best price.
RM.

[phll4d]

Audioman- Are you guys still doing the gb for the BFP CAI? I would be interrested, but I read that BFP is going to push up the deadline, if so I won't be able to get in on it due to OBD1 conv. kit purchase (tapped out for this month) Hit me back!!

[ASCH MAN]

Phll, you have until next Friday to get your name on the list. We are over 40 people in only 3 days so they had to cap it early.

If you want in, PM me the required information to get on the list. This group buy has been more successful then anyone thought it would be!

Thanks.

[rollnbmwdroptop]

Steve/Elliot, Just still deciding if I should go with the regular filter or the K&N filter, what are the advantages K&N has over the regular filter other than having the NAME K&N!? If its not that much of a difference, I might as well not get the K&N and save the $20.

[ASCH MAN]

I will defer that question to the maker of the intake as I don't know much about the standard filter. I do know that some people swear by K&N, and others like the foam type filter.

[BFP, Inc.]

K&N's are reusable, meaning that you can re-oil them when they are dirty. The standard filters must be thrown out and a new one bought every 20-30K depending on your area (dirty areas = shorter life of the filter). So far, 37/41 people have elected to go with the K&N.

-SB

P.S. Elliot, will respond to the PM later tonight or tomorrow... gotta go make an airport pickup!

[rollnbmwdroptop]

Ok, thanks for the quick reply! I guess I'll go with the K&N then!

[BlackIce]

Count me in please. My email is forumdw@ziplip.com . Can we pay now or do we wait until the deadline?

[rollnbmwdroptop]

Just paid! When will shipment begin?

[D_ALPINE_M]

so how many buyers do you have now and will this have any good gains on a 325i/93

[rollnbmwdroptop]

They have well over 40 buyers, so this GB is a go for sure. There's a dyno chart link on page 2 of a 325i. I think gains were about 8 hp.

[ASCH MAN]

Sorry for the confusion in some of the PM's, but we will no longer accept people for this group buy after this Friday 5/2, and payment is due by 5/11. The 30 people were obtained much more quickly than expected. Shipments will start soon thereafter. Thanks.

[Ludicious]

Thanks for all the hard work man... I sent payment yesterday. Looking forward to installing this next week or whenever it arrives.

Cheers.

[He and his]

so the gains would probably be felt more on a Stick right............cause i have a STEP, and am ewonderin if its worth it.........any insight people..........and second question is about the bypass valve just incase the car gets submerged in water; What about when cleaning the car, can the water spray affect it if i DO NOT have the bypass valve............Thx guys

[tasty]

I've been living without it for 6 months and doubt I'd ever need it. You would have to go through some seriously deep water fo it to matter. Just my .02.

[He and his]

Originally posted by He and his
so the gains would probably be felt more on a Stick right............cause i have a STEP, and am wonderin if its worth it.........any insight people

[ASCH MAN]

It will give you 8-10 HP regardless of whether the car is a stick or auto.

You should feel the difference. It is up to you but I need your info by this Friday (5/2) to make it in time for the closing of the Group Buy.

[rollnbmwdroptop]

Elliot, when will shipping begin? As soon as 30 people have paid? Or as soon as we pay (regardless of # of people paid)?

[ASCH MAN]

From what I understood in the e-mail, shipping will begin on May 12 (The day after all payments are due). UNLESS, they get 30 payments before that date. They will start shipping early once they get at least 30 paymnents.

So if you are waiting to pay, you are holding up getting the intake.

They also want to try to get the last intake shipped out by the 16th of May, but at the latest it would be the 23rd.

We are over 54 people now in this Group Buy, thanks everyone for making it so great. :clap:

[dan330]

Originally posted by SBenfer

-SB

P.S. Dan330, go ahead and paypal $5.00 for the extra coupling and we'll have one out to you ASAP. [/B]

Thanks Steve,

I will paypal you the $5.

dan330

PS. Great product. Great GB. Great customer service!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[ASCH MAN]

Just an update, we are almost to 60 people!!!

Don't forget to include your mailing address if paying by check. Paypal includes it automatically as they need it when you sign up.

If you know anyone else that want in on this group buy, they need to PM the required info to me by this Friday.

[rollnbmwdroptop]

C'mon guys, let's get the payments rolling in! :) The sooner we get 30 paid, the sooner we get our intakes shipped! No need to wait till the end date!

So how many have paid so far??

I have....

[Ludicious]

Acording to that email there was a good bit of us paid already. I'm getting eager to put it on... it'll be the first change made to my car (other than stereo).

[KaOTiKM3]

ok I just paid...

[BFP, Inc.]

Hey guys, we have 23 paid so far!!!

The plan was to stop taking names this Fri, recieve payments through next Fri (While building like crazy this weekend and next week), and start shipping on the 12th! Sticking to that schedule, we are OK - and we thought it would take forever to get the first 30 to pay (As it did in our previous GB). Because so many have signed up and paid so soon (and we promised to start shipping when the 1st 30 were paid for), there's a slight logistical problem here... Nobody on our end expected you guys to step up to the plate with payments so quickly, and we're fast approaching 30!

The problem(s)

(1) Each intake is essentially built to order, and we need to BUILD all of the intakes for those who have paid! So far we have about 5 done, as most of our time lately has been administrative (Which, without Elliot would be a disaster) but the remaining 25 will take 25+ hours of labor, which is about 3 days of work. We will be working all weekend, and we expect to be able to ship the first batch by the middle of next week...

(2) This GB was an inventory clearance event more than anything else... We had enough materials for 30 intakes, but we're at 60 people right now... So we've ordered more materials which will push us out a week. Furthermore, we recieved 5 regular orders over the last 3 days! Right now, we can ship out the first 25 intakes once they're built, but the remaining intakes will be built as the supplies come in (next week), and will ship on the originally stated schedule.

So as it stands:

-We have 23 payments. 7 more and we start shipping as soon as they are built, which we expect to be early next week.

-We have parts for 25 intakes. Those will constitute the first batch. The next 2 people to pay will go out with that first batch.

-The second batch will be built the weekend of the 10th as the new supplies should be in (as was the case in the original schedule), through part of the next week, and shipped as soon as they are finished. We will ship daily in batches of 5-10 as they are finished. (No use sitting on them!)

SO, sticking to the original schedule, we're all good and nothing has changed. Sticking to the 1st 30 paid = shipped thing, the soonest that will happen is sometime next week, with the 2nd batch of people shipping at the original indicated time/date.

Please PM or Email or post in here if you have any other questions.

Regards,

-SB

[Gatsby]

Just sent in my cash..

[RyanM3]

me too!

[Ludicious]

I'm stoked... nice work guys... sounds like you are gonna move some product now? Especially if all these people start bragging about how nice the product is... then others... then others..

... if you build it... they will buy. ;) Anyhow... I'm sure everyone purchasing would have to agree... that we're greatful you didn't stop at the 30, and making provisions for the extra orders. Outstanding...

[rollnbmwdroptop]

Great work guys......I can't wait to get mine!!

[Balthazarr]

I was going to send my payment, but hesitated since type of lights seems to be an issue.
I have stock US spec currently and will change in the forseeable future.
Are there differences in the CAI for one type vs the other?

[ASCH MAN]

Balthazarr, you can only upgrade to the Euro Ellipsoids, and there is no difference in the intake for any E36. The only difference is when you have an E46 (Xenon, or Bi-Xenon). They send parts to relocate the ballasts for the Xenon light. With just a little modification, you should be able to get the same CAI to fit with your car regardless of your lighting.

[ponq]

Just paid.
Can't wait to put it on. Do you guys think I should wait to install a chip at the same time for a larger power gain, or will I feel enough of a gain to do the CAI alone, and do the chip later?

[phll4d]

Alright peoples', I've paid for mine, now you's got to pay for yours! Haha! Thie will be a nice addition to my OBD 1 kit that's one the way too! Hey, how much more hp. do you guys think I'll gane with these New Additions??

[phll4d]

Damn my keyboard skills suck!!!!!!

[ASCH MAN]

Reminder, the list stops today. Get your info to me today if you want in on the list.

Include:

First Name
Last Name
E-mail address
Year/Model of car
Logo (Yes/No) $5 extra if no
Color of intake
Lighting on car (if E46 Halogen, Xenon, Or Bi-xenon)
K&N upgrade (Extra $20)
AEM Upgrade (Extra $35).

Thanks, and just to you let you know, we have gone over 80 people in one week!

[ponq]

I decided not to go with the aem bypass, as I stated in my original info. I hope that's not a problem.

[ASCH MAN]

Just a reminder, this is the last day to get on the list. After today, the list is closed. Please get me ALL the required information above by tonight if you want on.

For everyone that has been put on the list, you should have gotten a confirmation from me, if not double check with me.

Finally, payment needs to get to Benfer by next Friday (5/9). Thanks everyone for making this so great.

We are closing in on 85-90 people. :eek: :eek:

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by AudioMan
Reminder, the list stops today. Get your info to me today if you want in on the list.


HAHA, Audioman's trying to kill us! Seriously, 80 intakes is going to take a lot of work on our end. (Think, an hour per intake. See why we're going to have them made for us in one-piece? :) ) We've ordered from most of our suppliers, and the +25 participant intakes will begin to be built by the middle/end of next week. The first 25 people on the list will be built tonight/tomorrow/sunday/monday and will go out Tues or Wed.

Many people have PM'd/Emailed us over the last day or two - and I really appologize that we haven't been able to respond to all of them. A few of the guys working with us have participated GB's for their BMWs in the past, and now we understand why there were often communications blackouts... We'll try to minimize that, and AT LEAST update the boards. Tonight or tomorrow we will chip away at the mountain of messages/emails, and we will respond to everyone who has asked a question.

Having most everything filtered/administered by Audioman has been a Godsend, and all of you should know that this GB WOULD NOT be happening without him - no way, no how. He has organized, maintained, and driven this group buy to over 80 people. If we survive 80 hours of manufacturing in the given timeframe, he gets a lifetime membership to the "Big F'ing BFP discount" club. (Well, he gets the membership either way because he's a big :pimpflash )

Thanks for participating guys, will update ASAP.

-SB

[Balthazarr]

Thanks Elliott for the hard work.

[ASCH MAN]

Cool, I have always wanted to be Big Pimpin. For everyone wanting to start a group buy, be prepared for a lot of work.

Looking forward to the product. Right now the list sits at 86 intakes, but that could rise in the final hours of the list.

Audio.

[BFP, Inc.]

Yep, believe me we are thankful for the business! We've streamlined our manufacturing process for the GB and have ordered a ton of supplies.

We will compile and mass-mail payment and option confirmations tomorrow, as well as get back to all of you who have emailed/PM'd us!

-BFP

[ASCH MAN]

Ok, the taking of names for the Group Buy is now closed. We hit over 85 people. :redspot Thanks everyone and keep posted for updates on shipping.

[Gatsby]

you might want to edit the first post to inform people about the GB closing.. I can't wait for my intake..

now installation.. that going to be fun :)

[jasonwachtl]

Wohoo! Can't wait to get it installed. I hope I was one of the first 24 to pay, so I can get mine next week!! Thanks Audioman for setting this up and making everything possible. Your effort and time are appreciated. Also thanks to Benfer Performance for participating and giving us some deep discounts!

[BFP, Inc.]

Guys, been working on intakes all morning... Later tonight after we call it a day, I'll compile and mail a list of all who have paid, the order in which they have paid (I'll do it by email address to the GB mass mail list to protect privacy. I may just make a custom excel spreadsheet and mail it to everyone.)

Thanks again everyone for participating, thanks Bimmerforums for letting us use this forum (expect an email about sponsorship after this is over and intakes are out the door), and special thanks again to Elliott for orchestrating and maintaining this buy. So far 44 people have paid (not including money orders which have already been sent), so we will assemble and ship intakes with all of the materials we have. The rest of the materials will be en-route sometime next week, intakes will be built all next weekend, and we will ship in batches as they are completed. For now, anyone who hasn't paid - please send paypal payment to sales@benferperformance.com or a check/MO to

Benfer Performance, Inc.
4370 La Jolla Village Drive #400
La Jolla, CA 92122

Please remember to duplicate the exact same info you gave Audioman (Elliott) so that we can match up invoice to spreadsheet. 330i owners, it's especially important that you denote that you have a 330i (Everyone who has already paid with a 330i has done so), because your intake requires a different coupling (Your MAF is actually 91mm across as opposed to 79mm). Same goes for people with the Euro MAF's (which Lanchi has).

Thanks guys!

-BFP

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by Balthazarr
Steve, the email attachment didn't open with Acrobat Reader.

Can you resend?

It's a MS Excel file...

-SB

[Khoalty]

Just wanted to reassure most people that BFP are good people. I spoke with them couple of days ago and I had a good conversation with them. There was no running around the bush just straight facts and answers. I would reccomend this place to anyone. I extend myself and gave them my business when the one piece is ready to go. Welcome to the boards BFP.

Khoa

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by Balthazarr
Acrobat executes automatically. File type is registered, but set to open with Acrord 32.
:az:

Hmmm. We've had about 5 people email back to confirm or make small changes to their options from that spreadsheet, so I think it may be a problem on your end. Right click on the attachment and select "open with" ---> "choose program" ---> "MS Excel"

-BFP

[Balthazarr]

Originally posted by SBenfer
Hmmm. We've had about 5 people email back to confirm or make small changes to their options from that spreadsheet, so I think it may be a problem on your end. Right click on the attachment and select "open with" ---> "choose program" ---> "MS Excel"

-BFP

Nothing happens when i rt click on attachments.
I have W98 1st Vers. Not sure if this is why.

I opened in quickview. Now I can't edit because AcroRdr opens when I try and i get the same, " ..non-supported filetype or has been corrupted..." message.

So I sent email noting changes.:cool:

[Khoalty]

For faster results you should email BFP instead of posting here b/c I doubt they check on here alot.

[Balthazarr]

Did that an hour and a half before you posted.

thanks, though.:)

[ASCH MAN]

You do not have the right program. You can not open MS Excel with Acrobat, your computer is just trying to use any program to open it as you do not have Microsoft Excel installed. Go get a copy from a friend and install it.

If you have any more questions, just PM SBENFER. They can just tell you what is on the sheet under your name.

[rollnbmwdroptop]

Any updates??

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by rollnbmwdroptop
Any updates??

Here's a quick update...

So far we have 59 payments, and the long process of manufacturing has begun. 15 of the first paid have shipped from existing stock, and the rest are being manufactured. Each intake is hand built to order from bare metal, and the process we use requires that we have an assembly line method for each stage. We are moving all 75 remaining intakes through each stage as quickly as possible, and we'll keep you updated as to the status of your orders. Thanks for your patience and your participation, and please don't hesitate to PM or Email if you have any other questions.

Regards,

-SB

[He and his]

i say we DONT bother the man for the next 2 weeks so he can work in piece instead of being hammered w/ how much time remaining...........we all know how much time and he'll keep us updated with info........good man benfer:clap: :clap:

[Balthazarr]

SB, paid by paypal.

Thanks, looking forward to using a good product.:)

[XaznPKdogX]

Great GB by AudioMan and Benfer. Fast and organized. You guys are fantastic. I never posted but I'm in this groupbuy, so this is my chance to say thanks. I'm juss so giddy cause I'm #2 on the send list!!

Can't wait.

[ASCH MAN]

Thanks for your fast payment, it is how you are #2 on the list.

As a final Remder to everyone else who has not paid, payment is due in the next couple of days. Please paypal your final amount over to Benfer to get your intake. Sending a check at this point may not make it to them in time.

They have been very busy ordering extra materials to get all of these built.

This has been a great group buy and we got more people than ever expected. Thanks to everyone. :clap:

[ponq]

Audioman, thanks for organizing this, and doing it so well.
Got any other group buys in mind?
:clap:

[dan330]

Yeah lets look at some DDE or Angel Eyes. :)

SBenfer,
Do you think you can come up with DDE that are bright and cheaper that all the other.

I think you can sell a lot!

[ASCH MAN]

Dan, I think that is the reason it did so well. This intake is a good product, and cost quite a bit less than what other intakes cost.

I would be willing to get euro ellipsoids with DDE pre-installed for $250. I can't afford any more than that.

What do you say Benfer, any interest in getting some InPro's or some other inexpensive Euro lights and converting them for us for much less than the competition. I can see an easy 80 buyers for something like that. :eyes1

Ok, so that is not realistic, but you see my point. There obviously is a very large untapped market on inexpensive mods for BMW's. Not all of us can afford $300 + intakes, but sure wish we had them.

What about a quality $300 cat back exhaust system?

[ponq]

I would be sooo interested in a quality $300 cat back system.
:boink

[Franchise]

brospeed makes a good cat back for around that price. might even be cheaper. i believe they have a couple of different exhausts as well. one that is quite agressive and the other is just a deeper rich tone.

[BFP, Inc.]

Phew! Just catching up....

1) The list we sent out was actually made from the sign up list... not the "paid in which order" list. I'll send out a "paid in which order" list tomorrow or over the weekend so people can have a realistic expectation of when their intake has gone out.

2) Parts are coming, intakes are being built, and callouses (sp?) are forming! "He and His," thanks for the kind suggestion... We will update the boards as frequently as possible, but having to stop and check the list for who is in what stage of building really takes time. Don't worry guys, you'll recieve an email when your intake ships!

3) Parts are coming in from our manufacturers this week and during the beginning of next week. Cutting and treating the raw pipe (high speed chop saw, 3-stage degreasing bath, deburring, etc.) is about half the time involved in making these intakes, and we're well into that process.

4) DDE's??? We're moving away from the "BFP guys in the shop hammering away" thing, and having stuff made for us (hence the one-piece intakes). I'll stand behind fellow San Diegan Jim Powell for angel eyes. :alright

5) Future stuff... (In order of when it'll be here)

-E36/E46/E39 one-piece intakes

-E36/E46/E39/Mini Cooper Carbon Fiber... Yep, we're making it (well, we have a very high quality shop making it. All vacuum bagged and autoclaved with the best pre-preg CF out there)

-E36/E46/E39 Exhaust systems. We have the guy who designed several of the major exhaust manufacturers' systems making one for us... Sourcing titanium for the E46/E39 M's..

-Board Sponsorship

I hope the "future stuff" won't flood us with E-mail... If you have questions about it, email in a week or two... We'll be in the cave until then, coming out for posts and email updates.

Regards,

-SB

[KaOTiKM3]

what are the advantages of the 1-piece or CF designs over the current BFP CAI? are they going to be significantly more expensive?

[ASCH MAN]

The one piece design might have a slight airflow advantage, but you are looking at amount so insignificant, maybe .5 HP or less.

The advantage is it is much prettier eye candy. :boink The current intake does just a good as job, but it is just. . .more pieces.


An exhaust system . .huh? If the price is right I smell a future group buy. :boobies

SBENFER, you know who to contact about that one right?

[outkastaliens]

Guys, as smoothly as this group buy has gone, i give you MAJOR props! I have set a couple up and it is a pain. But the customer service that BFP is providing is amazing! I always say, customer service sells. And if you produce anything in the future that i need, you will be the guys i come to! Two thumbs up!

[BFP, Inc.]

Hey everyone,

We've received payment from all except the following:

slammede46
BlackBimmer
Calvin
giambi77
ddyer248
dan3317
JAYM3
Sir.B
JP3 323Ci
Devsky
gee328i
dentrapment
qzbeemer
mblack325i
Dahero
KuyaWil
gizmo
Brian99R1

Please paypal by the end of the evening, or your name will be taken off of the GB list. If you have already sent payment (check/money order), please disregard this message.

Thanks!

-SB


P.S. Thanks for the props Outkast. One of our founders used to manage Nordstrom's stores, and we've always tried to maintain their level of customer service.

[XaznPKdogX]

eager... any updates?

[BFP, Inc.]

Big(ger) update coming... Our supplier didn't come through with the whole chopping, degreasing, and de-burring thing, so we spent the weekend making approximately 300 precision cuts, deburring, and degreasing... Intakes will begin shipping a bit later this week, and we'll email tracking numbers and update the boards.

Thanks for hanging in there!

-SB

[ASCH MAN]

SB, we really appreciate your customer service. You are really a top notch company and we can't wait until you come out with more products for our cars. :clap:

For the price we got, I don't mind waiting. Thanks for the update.

[BFP, Inc.]

Update, can't cut/paste the smilies (I don't think)...

Bottom of this thread... (http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=84484&highlight=benfer+or+bfp)

[ASCH MAN]

Cool, got mine yesterday. :clap:

[KaOTiKM3]

Originally posted by AudioMan
Cool, got mine yesterday. :clap:

hmm I didn't get mine yet, did they said send out the tracking numbers already? :az:

[XaznPKdogX]

Yea no tracking numbers recieved here yet. I was supposedly 2nd to pay :buttrock :bawl :rolleyes:

[ASCH MAN]

Guys, I do not know who paid in what order. What I do know is that several people on the E46 forum got theirs, and I got mine.

Please be patient, Benfer is very busy building and making these things and should be shipping another batch out early next week.

The install was not too difficult, it just took some time to make sure I was doing everything correctly.

If I had to do it again, it would take much less time.

Plan for about 2-2.5 hours of work (and that is being very anal that everything was done correctly). If you know what you are doing, plan on only an hour or so.

It looks great in the engine, nice and black but be careful as the paint scratches easily so I will probably have to use a little touch-up pain on the intake.

You will need to use the bolts coming off of the stock airbox to re-mount the cruise control module, and that is about the only thing that is not mentioned in the directions. They just unscrew off the old air-box and you will know what I am talking about when you unscrew the Cruise Control piece.

Ok you want to hear about the performance. Well it is a very nice gain! The car just seems to pull wonderfully all the way up to redline. My rear tires seem to break loose a bit easier now too.

Thinking back, a good comparison is to imagine your stock airbox is asthma to your engine, and the new intake is a shot from an inhaler. It just lets the engine breathe.

Very great mod for the $$. Cleaning the filter may be a pain as you have to remove the bumper, but after pulling it off once, you realize how easy it is and it should only take about 10-15 minutes the 2nd time to do it. Plus, you only have to do this once a year or so.

I know some of you would like pictures, but sadly I do not have a digital camera.

[Ludicious]

Still patiently waiting... odd... I thought I was one of the first on order and payment. *shrug* oh well.

Car will still be there next week. :)

BTW... very nice job Audioman, and a very big hand for the guys at Benfer for all their updates.

[MrChaos]

This intake is what I'm waiting on to get my engine swap process finished. It needs to accomodate the 3.5" HFM and consequentially, I can't drive the car until I have the intake because I don't have any other setup that is going to work. Looks like it's going to be end of next week before mine gets shipped, and cali -> Ky = 5 business days of shipping. :(

So, is there any way I can get bumped up from near the bottom of the list? I'll pay someone off to swap positions.

-A

[JedzE36/5]

ahhhh i kant wait to see the benfer exhaust

[MMJ4mil]

i haven't got mine yet either?

[Balthazarr]

It has been just over a week since the GB ended.
Be patient.
As far as I' concerned, i'd much rather have the best job done on the product even if it takes longer.

Let them take their time.

[outkastaliens]

Originally posted by MrChaos
This intake is what I'm waiting on to get my engine swap process finished. It needs to accomodate the 3.5" HFM and consequentially, I can't drive the car until I have the intake because I don't have any other setup that is going to work. Looks like it's going to be end of next week before mine gets shipped, and cali -> Ky = 5 business days of shipping. :(

So, is there any way I can get bumped up from near the bottom of the list? I'll pay someone off to swap positions.

-A

MrChaos,
This is crazy cause i am in the same boat. Where are you located in kentucky? My car is in madisonville if you know where that is. Also, what are you swapping what into? I just replaced my 3.0 and it didn't have an intake when i got it, go figure. But we are having a meet in july, would you be interested in caravaning down? If you are in the louisville area, there are some guys coming from there.

[MrChaos]

Originally posted by outkastaliens
MrChaos,
This is crazy cause i am in the same boat. Where are you located in kentucky? My car is in madisonville if you know where that is. Also, what are you swapping what into? I just replaced my 3.0 and it didn't have an intake when i got it, go figure. But we are having a meet in july, would you be interested in caravaning down? If you are in the louisville area, there are some guys coming from there.

I'm right outside of Louisville.

I pulled the 3.0 (going to build it up and either resell or find an early 90's 325 to put it in) and dropping in 3.2. At the same time doing the HFM/chip/injector/intake upgrade and the intake is going to be the last thing I get. chip and injectors are only other thing i'm missing and they are coming in a day or two.

Depends on when the meet is.. I work full time so it'd have to be on the weekend.

-A

[jaym3]

I sent my payment last week(paypal) along with a couple of emails (to Benfer) trying to find out any updates and when I could expect delivery but with no response... :95 Does anyone have any latest news?

-jaym3

[outkastaliens]

Originally posted by MrChaos
I'm right outside of Louisville.

I pulled the 3.0 (going to build it up and either resell or find an early 90's 325 to put it in) and dropping in 3.2. At the same time doing the HFM/chip/injector/intake upgrade and the intake is going to be the last thing I get. chip and injectors are only other thing i'm missing and they are coming in a day or two.

Depends on when the meet is.. I work full time so it'd have to be on the weekend.

-A

Your just in luck. It is going to be on july 12. Here is the url:
http://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=99241

I am trying to get some vendors to sponser us and also there will be a raffle for a $5 entry charge and you have to be there to get the prize. But more than likely it will be a UUC shift knob or a UUC SSK. But check the thread out, we would love to have you there!

[ASCH MAN]

Guys, Benfer is spending every waking moment possible right now building these intakes. They only expected about 30 for this group buy, so you can imagine their surprise when we dropped a 90+ order bomb on them.

They had to order more parts, which takes a little time, and each intake takes about 1 hour to build.

Please be patient. This price was great, so we can't complain too much if you get it one week later than expected. I am sure they will give us another update by the end of the week.

[MrChaos]

Originally posted by AudioMan
Guys, Benfer is spending every waking moment possible right now building these intakes. They only expected about 30 for this group buy, so you can imagine their surprise when we dropped a 90+ order bomb on them.

They had to order more parts, which takes a little time, and each intake takes about 1 hour to build.

Please be patient. This price was great, so we can't complain too much if you get it one week later than expected. I am sure they will give us another update by the end of the week.

Patience wears thin when you have gone multiple months without your car :( But I understand it takes time. I wasn't complaining, just trying to buy my way into a higher shipping priority position :dunno I'd go directly to Mr. Benfer and ask if there's a way to get some better shipping since I am on the other side of the country, but I don't want to bother him!

-A

[jaym3]

Originally posted by AudioMan
Guys, Benfer is spending every waking moment possible right now building these intakes. They only expected about 30 for this group buy, so you can imagine their surprise when we dropped a 90+ order bomb on them.

They had to order more parts, which takes a little time, and each intake takes about 1 hour to build.

Please be patient. This price was great, so we can't complain too much if you get it one week later than expected. I am sure they will give us another update by the end of the week.

I'm sure Benfer and his people are working very hard to acomodate for this huge group buy, it's just that I was alittle concerned about sending my payment in and not hearing anything back from anyone especially without a number to call and being able to contact someone....

[Jroz]

as long as i get these before july i wont care.....is that possible or are we lookin at august...i got school then :(

[ASCH MAN]

I am pretty sure Benfer wanted to have them done by the end of this month.

[jaym3]

it would be awesome if I got mine next week.... I will be attending a car show the first week of June and it would be great to show off my new Benfer Intake not to mention to promote the brand too.... :redspot

[BFP, Inc.]

Hey guys, without spending a really long time matching last name to email to real name (while we're trying to get all of these out), here's a list of tracking numbers by last name... Since we all go by usernames and not full names, only you will know your tracking number... There are another 15 which have to be assembled and boxed, which will ship on Friday - with another batch of 15 or so. (We expect 30 more to ship on Friday). The last shipment will go out Tuesday (since Monday is a Holiday).

-BFP

*edit* Thanks PK, - they are FedEx tracking numbers.

http://www.benferperformance.com/images/gb0520.jpg

[sambonator]

Can I get in on the purchase if someone drops out?
Much obliged!
Sam

SArai@cox.net

[XaznPKdogX]

just trying to help. the tracking numbers are for fedex. enlarge image if your using internet explorer with the option minimize picture to window selected.

[Jroz]

Yo whose last name is Royzen..cause i dont know if that is a mess up of Roslin or what...hah hope its me..im not on the list :(

[outkastaliens]

hey bro, my name isn't on there either

[ponq]

I think another list will be made with the next shipment. I hope..... I should be on the next list.

[BFP, Inc.]

We'll post another list with the next shipment - which we expect to consist of around 30 intakes, and will go out on Friday.

Outkast, your name isn't on the shipped list becauase you paid on 5/8, a day before we stopped accepting payments (the whole "shipped in the order of payments received" thing...). :)

-BFP

[outkastaliens]

that is cool, i didn't understand the list i suppose. I thought that was everyone in the group buy. I understand now :) thanks.

[Franchise]

could someone explain to me the worst-case scenario of how late i will recieve my intake? my name wasnt on the list either... i'm not trippen just curious. if i have a date in my head then i wont be trippen over the mail until around then. as for now damn i get excited for mail!

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by Franchise
could someone explain to me the worst-case scenario of how late i will recieve my intake? my name wasnt on the list either... i'm not trippen just curious. if i have a date in my head then i wont be trippen over the mail until around then. as for now damn i get excited for mail!

Worst case, it goes out Tuesday (since Monday is a holiday), and you're in the continental US - it should get to you on Friday/Monday.

-BFP

[dan330]

No worst case:
UPS loses your intake or damages it. Then you have to work through them to get paid for damages. Then re-order with Benfer. Then wait for another week.
So about 6-10 months wait.

J/K :) :P

[jaym3]

man, if I got mine next monday it would be right in the nick of time for the car show!!!.... :clap: woohooo!!... :alright

[ponq]

Originally posted by dan330
No worst case:
UPS loses your intake or damages it. Then you have to work through them to get paid for damages. Then re-order with Benfer. Then wait for another week.
So about 6-10 months wait.

J/K :) :P

Thanks,

Now that thats in my head, I can worry!
:stickoutt

[rollnbmwdroptop]

Just wondering since my intake should be here tomorrow:buttrock , does Fedex require a signature when they deliver? I've never had anything Fedex-ed before, its always been UPS. I want to make sure I have someone home to sign for it if they require it!! I can't wait!!

[G.A. BOY]

i got mine today and i cant wait to hear it take for the gb and the fast work!!!!

[MrChaos]

I hope I'm on the next ship list, or it's going to be week after next before I can drive my car :bawl

-A
..patiently waiting for the ship list..

[rollnbmwdroptop]

Got mine today. The intake was packed very nicely. Looks good, now I just have to put it on! Only "flaw" I can say as of now is the paint on the intake tube. A few scratches already on it; seems like the paint is very easy to scratch. Hell, for $165 (aem/k&n upgrade) shipped, a lilttle can of spray paint is no big thing! Looking forward to installing it. Thanks again to Elliot and Steve for doing such a great job!!!!

[BFP, Inc.]

Hey guys, we had 19 set to go out yesterday, but the FedEx truck never came! We usually drop off the intakes we make at a local FedEx station (and not have a truck come), but for this GB we scheduled 2 pickups. The first one went fine and the truck swung by and got 'em all. The second one (yesterday) never showed up, and FedEx wouldn't do a thing about it! So as it stands we need to make 19 new FedEx groupship labels :mad:, and it looks like we're going to have somewhere around 50 intakes shipping Tuesday. Local guys, please contact us on Tuesday so you can pick up.

Regards,

SB

[MrChaos]

Benfer is there I way we can upgrade our shipping to 3 day or something, for a cost of course? Tuesday ship = following Monday receive (at least for me)

-A

[jasonwachtl]

For anyone installing this with in an E46 with the cold weather package(headlight washers), it's actually easier to install this intake if you do the following instead of the given directions(taking out headlight assembly)...I got as far as removing every screw of the headlight assembly and then had to pull out the headlight washer and everything started leaking all over the place...decided to find another way to do this install!! I know it's vague, but use it if you must in addition to the given directions...

1) Use front jack point and jack up car with factory jack. Take off the driver's side wheel
2) Inside the wheel well, take out the 6 screws holding the lower front underbody panel to the top panel(there's 4 inside the wheel well and 2 under the front lip of car). Remove panel so you can fit the unit through but do not remove entirely(it's a pain to put back on).
3) assemble filter(k+n) onto benfer unit
4) thread entire unit from bottom of car wheel well up to throttle body
5) Attach the mounting bracket per instructions, attach to throttle body
6) Put screws back in front wheel well, put wheel back on, and un-jack car.
7) Test drive like a madman

Had mine out for the first time tonight and I like how you can hear the whistle when you hit the throttle. It sounds like I have a turbocharged car now! Didn't do too much high rpm testing, just driving around town...

Hope this helps someone out!

[G.A. BOY]

i have a e36 what do i do with the 2 tubes that come out of the factory air box? other then that everthing is nice and neat

[XaznPKdogX]

Is there a high heat resistant clear coat paint that I can use to paint over these. It seems easily scratched especially where BFP's logo is. However, I am really happy about this intake and the price I paid for it. Good job and thanks again.

[Balthazarr]

I'm going to spray mine with high-temp engine enamel. Maybe.

Depends on how difficult it is to avoid scratching.

[BFP, Inc.]

Guys, we just shipped 35 out today... Here are the tracking numbers:

NOTE!!! If your name is NOT on this list it means that you are A) In Canada, and your intake went out via USPS... Will post a list of USPS shipments later, B) Paid later in the group (7th-9th), or C) you paid later and have a regular filter (ran out, more coming tomorrow). We have another batch of 15 - 20 going out tomorrow/wed, so if you don't see your name, fear not!

As to the paint scratching, we have found that often the intakes ship less than 24 hours after they have been coated, which leaves the paint a bit uncured. Full curing takes a few days, and as time goes on there should be less of a chance of scratching.

http://www.benferperformance.com/images/gb0527.jpg


-SB

[MrChaos]

The cutoff date seems to be closer to the 3rd or 4th.. that's when I got my receipt of payment and I am not on the latest list. Yes I'm in the US and yes I got a K&N

-A

[Balthazarr]

Patiently waiting.

All options save for the logo removal.

[Jroz]

hey did that second batch of intakes go out today...if so do you have one of those tracking number sheets ...im gettin kinda concerned..hopin that you did recieve my money and that i am on one of these lists..just seein if ya do..name is Roslin

[BFP, Inc.]

Here's the final list of intakes shipped...

http://www.benferperformance.com/images/gb0528.jpg

In addition, the following went out USPS:

Gusz
Horsley
Cassam
Alaoui Belrhiti
Page

Regards,

-SB

[Balthazarr]

S. Benfer,so, with regard to the sensitive paint, if we just wait a few days after receiving it will be cured properly?

The last batch you sent out was painted when?

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by Balthazarr
S. Benfer,so, with regard to the sensitive paint, if we just wait a few days after receiving it will be cured properly?

The last batch you sent out was painted when?

Last night. :redspot I'd just be careful when installing. The biggest cause of flaking is scraping the finish against bare metal (Which is even a prob on powdercoated Dinan intakes, etc.). If you remove your bumper and watch what you're doing you shouldn't have a problem...

-SB

[Jroz]

for the people that got there airintakes..how long did it take to get..once you got on that tracking list

thanks
Jason

[Balthazarr]

Thanks Steve B. for the info and the great price on everything.

I think i'll wait to install for a few days after i get mine.

Busy with my bike anyways.:)

[XaznPKdogX]

Not bashing the product, however I would highly suggest painting it. The bfp logo is etched in, so that is where paint rips/chips can happen most. Overall the product is excellent especially with the price given.

I put a coat of clear enamel (dupi-color engine paint). Anyone have a picture of these in the right position? taking it apart made me forget the angles it was in. :D

[Balthazarr]

IIRC, there is a pic on ebay with their ad.
It will take you to the site if that's not sufficient where there are other pics.

It can only fit one way afaik.

This dopi-color is made by whom? Just clear, right. Like marine resin.

[MrChaos]

Originally posted by Jroz
for the people that got there airintakes..how long did it take to get..once you got on that tracking list

thanks
Jason

It should take 4-5 business days from the ship date to get to you, being that Benfer is located in Cali.

-A

[Justin2]

Did I slip through the cracks?

Can't find my name anywhere.

I sent you a PM.

Last name: Devick



Thank you

[Balthazarr]

Got mine today. Glad i live only 2hrs away.

Looks very nice.

Will embark on this task in a few days.
Time to get back to Ducks/Devils. :laugh

[BlackIce]

Originally posted by G.A. BOY
i have a e36 what do i do with the 2 tubes that come out of the factory air box? other then that everthing is nice and neat

I need to know the same thing...Why didnt these things come with instructions.....

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by BlackIce
I need to know the same thing...Why didnt these things come with instructions.....

Check the package that has your bracket, it's got a link to the instructions on a label. They're at: http://www.benferperformance.com/instructions

The two tubes are connected to a thermostatic valve which serves to heat up the throttle body during extremely cold conditions. It references ambient air in order to allow the flow of coolant, though once it's done so, the valve closes and serves no purpose. Unless you live in an extremely cold region, you can bypass this valve and connect the hose to the t-body without the valve, or you can attach it to the underside of the MAF with the included zip-tie.

-SB

[BlackIce]

Thanks benfer, but what do I do with the 2nd tube that has coolant in it? Do i just leave it there?

[Franchise]

i didnt recieve my aem bypass valve...i paid for it but it didnt arrive with the intake. i even paid 5 extra bucks so that paypal wouldn't take your profit from it...

[Balthazarr]

I am going to install my CAI this morning.
So i open the envelope containing the mounting bracket and tie wraps and i find a poly connection similar to the type used to connect the segments of the intake.

Is this supposed to be the AEM bypass substitute section for wet weather?
I was under the impression it would be another painted piece of tubing.:az:

[Jroz]

Hey i got a question for anyone that knows or has installed this kit yet..especially SBenfer..i am getting the kit without the K&N filter becaue i already have one..the cone shaped one...but im not sure if its actually gonna fit..i looked at the DIY...and it showed the filter like a rectangular oval shape..and im concerned it may not fit..this is what it looks like..can anyone help me out?

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by Franchise
i didnt recieve my aem bypass valve...i paid for it but it didnt arrive with the intake. i even paid 5 extra bucks so that paypal wouldn't take your profit from it...

-Franchise, I don't know how that could have happened, but I am very sorry for it. Please email me your name/address at sales@benferperformance.com and I'll have one out to you tomorrow.

-Justin2, your tracking number is 225987510003431, and you shipped out on the 29th.

-Blackice, zip tie it to the MAF with the included zip-tie.

-Balthazarr, the extra coupling in there is the bypass substitute. Good luck w/the install!

-JRoz, if you have an E36, it should fit OK. If you have an E46, I recommend removing the bumper, and dremmeling the brake duct piece that's in the way. If you have a sedan, the brake duct piece just snaps in two to make room.

-All others who have PM'd, we'll respond to those today.

Regards,

-BFP

[dan330]

Question for those that have the bypass and paid for the $5 piece for when you want to close the by pass....

Can you show me a pic of the $5 part installed? It just seems not right.

Thanks,

[Balthazarr]

Does it seem a little short to you?
It does to me although i didn't repalce the BP with that coupling.

Being that everything is such a tight fit and depends upon the proper angles, that short piece would change the position of the entire intake.
That's the take i have anyway.

About the install.
It took me almost 4 hrs by myself to do everything and button it all back up.

In 100*F weather my temper was a mite short.
I had to bend the mounting bracket for the intake b/c it wouldn't sit flush to the mounting stud as it came from BFP.
My 70 year old " can i help" neighbor lost the speed nut to mount the bracket to the stud while i was inside the house attending to something else. He jiggled the tube enough that it popped off, evidently, and he knew that was the only one that came with the kit. Never found it.
Maybe i shouldn't have said it was a vacuum cleaner i was installing.
I think he put it in his pocket just to entertain himself as he watched me try to figure a way to substitute for it.:laugh
He disappeared shortly after I sarcastically said " good job, Bob".
In spite of his devilment, I managed to use a U-nut in it's place.


One of the couplings was not cut square on both ends. This might have been intentional owing to the placement/ angle of the device.
Getting the uppermost coupling to fit on the HFM was a royal PITA, WD40 or no.
Only used one of the two mounting brackets for the modification to remount the rightmost horn.
Then after had the intake set up and attached i relaized I hadn't reconnected it.
So off came the u-nut and mounting bracket so i could move everything enough to slide the connector on.
Getting the filter to mount between the horns in that small space, I managed to slightly crush one side of the bottom of the filter. No damage to it other than that... i hope.
:laugh
Now putting the bumper back on...no problem except the brake ducts don't line up as well as they should and the ext temp sensor is a little stressed in the d's side duct.
Other than that...simple. :stickoutt

Do i feel a difference?
I think i got back the torque i lost when i installed the exhaust.
I didn't thoroughly test it out so I can't be absolutely certain.

GL whoever has this planned to do.

[dan330]

Sorry you had such a hard time of it.

The $5 part is just strange to me. I is a 3 inch piece of rubber hose. I am just not sure what to do with it. Does it just go over the ByPass so that air can not get sucked in?
If so then what about the foam pieces? That would be very hard to put in.

[Jroz]

Originally posted by SBenfer

-JRoz, if you have an E36, it should fit OK. If you have an E46, I recommend removing the bumper, and dremmeling the brake duct piece that's in the way. If you have a sedan, the brake duct piece just snaps in two to make room.

-All others who have PM'd, we'll respond to those today.

Regards,

-BFP [/B]

damnit i do have an e46 and its a coupe...so taking out just the headlight wont do the trick..i have to actually start dremmeling and cutting pieces out..if thats the case maybe i should get it professionally installed...or just get the other cone..how much do people think i can get for my cone K&N filter...its been on the car for 2 months...let me know

thanks
Jason

[Balthazarr]

Entertaining read, sort of, eh Dan?

That coupling you received in the brown envelope is the piece takes the place of the BP and the foam AFAIK.

If you haven't done the installation yet, wait until SB responds.
No way that piece can go over anything but tubing.

My foam diapragm/BP thingy has a couple of slits in it.

Steve, will this affect the operation of the BP valve?

[jaym3]

well i finally recieved my intake on Sat. and started the installation later that day and just like my bud Balthazarr, it took me 4 hrs. to complete to project aswell. The packaging looked great and the qualitly of the intake looks very good too.

Problems I encountered:

-had to adjust the intake bracket(still needs some adjustment)

-bypass valve seems to fit loosely and not align well

-K&N filter seems to fit kindof tight between the horns after relocating them.

Overall i think the project went fairly well with few problems. Any helpful tips to correct these problems will be greatly appriciated...
:)

[Balthazarr]

Performance, Jay?

:)

[dan330]

Originally posted by Balthazarr
Entertaining read, sort of, eh Dan?

That coupling you received in the brown envelope is the piece takes the place of the BP and the foam AFAIK.

If you haven't done the installation yet, wait until SB responds.
No way that piece can go over anything but tubing.

My foam diapragm/BP thingy has a couple of slits in it.

Steve, will this affect the operation of the BP valve?

LOL. Yes. I does seam that people are making this harder that it realy is.

I guess I will try the $5 part later. :)

[Balthazarr]

Originally posted by dan330
LOL. Yes. I does seam that people are making this harder that it realy is.

I guess I will try the $5 part later. :)


Are you laughing at my story of the installation or the question of whether the foam being slit will affect the operation of the valve?

I think the foam is there for filtering only when the BP opens.
Maybe I should tape it up? :rolleyes: :laugh

[Mojo325is]

still haven't heard anything on the status of my intake.....PM'ed Mr. Benfer on Saturday, or it might have been on Sunday......

[dan330]

Originally posted by Balthazarr
Are you laughing at my story of the installation or the question of whether the foam being slit will affect the operation of the valve?

I think the foam is there for filtering only when the BP opens.
Maybe I should tape it up? :rolleyes: :laugh

I laugh because I like to laugh. Maybe at you maybe with you. :) ;) :stickoutt

Yeah, If you put it on this inside then you are reducing the volume, which can affect the amount of air coming in.

I wanted to come up with something that can be used to cover the whole thing form the outside.
Duct tape is good but that will look like sh-t.

It just seems that the $5 part does not match up to the high quality of the rest of the unit. :bawl

Later :)

[Balthazarr]

Originally posted by dan330
eah, If you put it on this inside then you are reducing the volume, which can affect the amount of air coming in.

I wanted to come up with something that can be used to cover the whole thing form the outside.
Duct tape is good but that will look like sh-t.

It just seems that the $5 part does not match up to the high quality of the rest of the unit. :bawl

Later :)

I meant tape over the foam, but I was just kidding.
That extra coupling is a tad pricey.

Let us know how it performs. :) :cool:

[jaym3]

Originally posted by Balthazarr
Performance, Jay?

:)

i really haven't had chance to drive my ///M all that much since the installation (not a daily driver) but when I went out for a test I felt it had a better response on the take off. I still need to see how it performs on the high end. :cool:

[Justin2]

Received mine, looks good.


The inside of my tubing is covered with what appears to be residue from cutting. (Oily, small shavings)
Did anyone else have this?

I'll just take it apart and run a rag through it, unless it is certainly a lubricant and not shavings.

[Jroz]

mine is in perfect condition got it today...1 day earlier then expected..nice little suprise..anyways i got it..and it came with a cone shaped filter..did everyone get one with the a red cone shaped one...besides k&N upgrades..or did anyone get the longer rectangular oval one..let me know

thanks again sbenfer :clap:

[Balthazarr]

Mine was cylindrical although after the install looked like those models used in solid geometry to illustrate conic sections.:laugh

[Jroz]

ahhh finally after 5 hours of back breaking finger cutting grease facing work...i got my intake done...

Positives: looks sweet, sounds sweet, performance is real good..feel alot quicker then stock..you can really feel the hp

negatives: MY cone was a *itch to get in....also the paint is real sensative..other then that :buttrock

One question..everyone that installed theres..when you are cruising around 3000 rpms..does it whistle pretty loud..like when you touch the gas the intake whistles pretty noticable..but when you accelerate harder it goes away

kinda annoying but its sweet..anyone have any good sugestions wat to do with the noise..or is everyone in the same boat as i am

let me know
thanks
Jason

[dan330]

Have not noticed a whistle. Seems quiet, unless hard accelerations.

[Jroz]

uh oh..not a good sign for me then :( ....when its hard accelerations does it whistle or do you hear that nice throtty voice..could it be my pieces arent tight enough or what

[ponq]

Loose fitting somewhere, that's what I'd guess, let us know how it goes. I should be installing Saturday. Can't wait.

[Jroz]

damnit that sucks cause i just had my old short intake and i thought it was that...is it possible it could be my k&N filter cause i used it before and used it now...everything else feels very good thoguh..nice and tight...anyone have this problem at all..i dont really want this mod with a annoying whistle going down the road :(

[dan330]

Well if the whistle was there before and it is there again. And you hear it when you are driving normally.

Then it might be something else all together. So other thing making the whistle noise and when you go hard accerlation, the sound of the engine is masking the whistle.

Just a suggestion. :)
Good luck

[ASCH MAN]

Don't worry about a whistle if it is between 2000-3000 RPM at light throttle. It is just the Filter sucking in air. It is common with this type of intake and if you have a stock exhaust and the windows open, you may notice it.

Mine stops with just a bit more gas, or when the RPM's get high enough to not hear it. I know my connections are tight.

If you are really worried about it, pull the bumper back off, and have a friend slowly rev it and see where it is whistling.

My guess it will be right at the filter.:buttrock

[jasonwachtl]

Jroz, mine does the exact same thing with the whistling. Tends to whistle at cruising speeds(lower rpms and not giving it alot of gas). I think it's most noticable in the 1600 to 3200 rpm range as long as the car is not floored--after that, it goes away entirely. I think it's pretty damn cool and like the noise

[Jroz]

alright as long as its not me..im actually getting TRR exaust today so i shouldnt hear it that much...you think if i got a different filter it wouldnt make that noise
let me know
thanks
Jason

[Mojo325is]

Received mine on Sat, hope to install this week....got the large round filter and not the cone, does anyone know if this will affect emissions tests in Cali? The reason I ask, I am moving to SD in December. Thanks.
Adam

[gizmmo]

your going to have to take out the whole intake whenever you have to get a smog as it is not carb legal.
stupid california emissions making everything harder.
if you havent tried to put this bad boy on yet you'll understand why i fear taking it off then putting it back on.
good luck

[Balthazarr]

Pull the sections apart after taking the speed nut holding the bracket to the chassis/fender. Then just take off the bumper, take out the filter from below, put the bumper back on or old stock a box etc back in first then the bumper and you're good to go.
Putting the CAI back after the inspection should be much quicker than initial installation because everything else has been done.

[ASCH MAN]

Seriously, you are probably looking at 30-45 minutes of work each time. It goes much more quickly if you are not reading directions for the first time and trying to figure things out. Not to mention the horns don't have to be relocated anymore.

[DanB]

Originally posted by AudioMan
Seriously, you are probably looking at 30-45 minutes of work each time. It goes much more quickly if you are not reading directions for the first time and trying to figure things out. Not to mention the horns don't have to be relocated anymore.

My buddy Josh did his BFP in about an hour on an E36. Bumper removal was about the hardest part, though having watched him do it, I could have that thing on and off in minutes!

-DanB

[BFP, Inc.]

Hey guys, here is a x-post of what I just said over on fanatics... I'm reading this thread, and the first things that come to mind are...

1) I'm sorry our instructions suck right now. None of you should be having any questions about installation, and that is on us. Fixing (see rest of post)

2) I apologize that we haven't been in this thread for a few days (see rest of post)

3) We have several emails/PMs that haven't been answered. This issue will be resolved shortly. (see rest of post)

The following is a snip of an email sent out today. We've been up and down to LA countless times over the last week to put out fires, and none of us have had much time to even LOOK at the boards, much less respond to emails. We'll be in LA on Monday AM for the last of what we have to do, so Monday afternoon/Tuesday, we will be able to be very active on the boards. I would like to apologize for the lack of communication and unanswered questions over the last week.

In terms of instructions, we have older ones online, and need to make new ones. The person who made them for us before was given new pictures and instructions to make into a PDF, however he hasn't come through with them. (He's family... guess we need to pay someone to do it right). None of us know how to make a word doc into a PDF.

In terms of installation, there are several ways to do this. For the optimum airflow, you need to dremmel out the brake duct, as you do with the Dinan kit. In fact, all of our one-piece E46 intakes require this. Alternatively, you can loosen the lower coupling, turn the angle to the side, and fit the filter in between the foglight and the tire well plastic cover. Air gets in from the grill, but not as efficiently as the duct alteration. If you have a sedan, the duct just pops in half. If you have a coupe, you need to dremmel. If you have either, but don't want to dremmel, you need to turn the lower portion of the filter to the side. K&N's fit better this way than the standard filters, though the standard filters will fit. Bumper removal is not necessary if you don't want to modify your brake duct, though the entire fittment (duct altered or not) goes more smoothly and securely IMO when the bumper is off. If you have xenon or bi-xenon, the headlight needs to come out. If you have halogens, you can do it by either removing the bumper and/or the headlight. Some people can fit our intakes perfectly by just removing the headlight, and others have had more success removing the whole bumper. I prefer to remove the bumper, as I can see exactly what's going on in there.

In terms of a 2003 325i, the only difference is the upper coupling. They changed the MAF to a larger size in 2003, unbeknownst to us before the group buy (We hadn't run across this issue), so everyone with a 325i needs a bigger coupling, which we normally supply to 330 owners. Several have been sent out already, and I know there are a few more that haven't been sent.

I will keep track of this thread (and others) as much as possible until Monday afternoon, at which time - the boards and any unanswered emails get our full attention.

My apologies,

-SB

[Balthazarr]

So the dated instructions might have directed us to do extra work which might have made installation more difficult?

Would the horns have been oriented differently according to new instructions for the E36's?

Dremel the brake duct, huh, really not an option for me.
Brake duct doesn't sit correctly now anyway.

[dan330]

Please explain: Dremmel

[Balthazarr]

Dremel:http://www.1000able.com/1/dremel/dremel.htm

[Franchise]

mine sound great with my AA gen 3 exhaust!!! it screams when i slam it!!! WOO HOOO!!! YAY FOR ME!!!

oh yeah i just ripped off those horns and the driver side brake duct fell off anyway..i kind miss the horns...but i prefer to think of it as stage 1 weight reduction!

[Mojo325is]

Just finished putting mine on this morning, about three hours total and by myself. I ended up jerry-rigging one of the horns and completely removing the other, that was the only way to get it to fit. Getting the bumper on and off was a bitch, but the rest wasn't that bad. I did have a hard time getting that little 'nut' thing on that they sent for the bar, so I left it off. Anyone else have this problem?

Adam

[ponq]

My bar is not connected either, no fit. I should take it off, it's probably scratching the hell out of the inner fender. I smashed my K and N to keep both horns. The fit wasn't great but for the price, performance, and sound well worth it.

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by ponq
My bar is not connected either, no fit. I should take it off, it's probably scratching the hell out of the inner fender. I smashed my K and N to keep both horns. The fit wasn't great but for the price, performance, and sound well worth it. \

Did you bend the horn bracket to remount, and swivel the other one around? On our '97 M3 we were able to do this (using the stock brackets in the instruction pics) and not smash anything. Also, if you're having trouble with the bracket to the chassis, attach it FIRST without the top/bottom bends, then attach the rest. The little clip can be tightened with a pair of needle nose pliers. I know it's a bit ghetto, but there's no nut known to man which will fit that thread.

-SB

[jaym3]

i was able to fit both horns.....

[ponq]

Originally posted by SBenfer
\

Did you bend the horn bracket to remount, and swivel the other one around? On our '97 M3 we were able to do this (using the stock brackets in the instruction pics) and not smash anything. Also, if you're having trouble with the bracket to the chassis, attach it FIRST without the top/bottom bends, then attach the rest. The little clip can be tightened with a pair of needle nose pliers. I know it's a bit ghetto, but there's no nut known to man which will fit that thread.

-SB

I did bend the bracket and swivel the other one around. If it's possible to bend the wrong bracket and swivel the other one incorrectly, I could have done that.
Most of the smashing of the K and N also occured while trying to get the bracket to fit precisely (sp?).
I'm no perfectionist, but I am happy.
:alright

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by ponq
I did bend the bracket and swivel the other one around. If it's possible to bend the wrong bracket and swivel the other one incorrectly, I could have done that.
Most of the smashing of the K and N also occured while trying to get the bracket to fit precisely (sp?).
I'm no perfectionist, but I am happy.
:alright

Yeah, those K&N's can take a beating. As long as the filter material didn't tear and/or the mesh didn't rip, you should be fine.

-SB

[EvilM3]

Originally posted by SBenfer
None of us know how to make a word doc into a PDF.
-SB

You buy the software from Adobe or any big computer store. It is the full Acrobat and not just the reader. When you install it, it creates a new printer called the Acrobat Distiller. When you go save or print in Word, change it to the Distiller and it automatically converts to a PDF. piece of cake.

[Justin2]

I just got around to installing this, and I thought I might add some pointers to others who may be having trouble installing this.

As others have said the first coupling is near impossible to get on.
To get the upper coupling on the MAS I beveled the inside edge with a razor blade and then lubed. This helped tremendously.

The bracket supplied is definently too short, (in my case). I created one just like it, only 2-3 inches longer with a metal strip purchased at Menards.

I had to relocate the horn that was supposed to be just rotated.

Good luck.

[ASCH MAN]

Well, now that you got it installed, how do you like it?

[Justin2]

I like it.

Also, Benfer Performance apologized for the bracket and sent me a free badge kit for my troubles of making a new one. Attention to past customers is a sign of a top notch company.

[tasty]

I still haven't mounted my horns yet. Care to show some pics as to what you did with them?

[Justin2]

tasty,
I bent the bracket on the first horn exactly as the directions explain.
The second horn is supposed to be loosened and rotated. This would work, but it pushed into my filter and I didn't want it wearing a hole in the filter over time. I placed this one on my homemade bracket between the intake and the "post". My advice to you would be to just mount it anywhere the existing wires will let you. I would take a picture, but our digital camera has been dropped, and broken.

[tasty]

Thanks Justin. I need to re-investigate mounting my horns soon. I've had the intake since long before this group buy and have just one stuck in there. I've been tossing around the idea of running longer cables and finding a better spot for them but haven't gotten around to it yet. I'm definately doing something before it starts getting cold this year. Thanks for the reply.