Build Log: M57 X5

[TwinTurboWagon]

Hi, my name is Evan and I like to modify BMWs.

Here are some of my old and current projects:

Imola Red E39 M5:
https://www.m5board.com/vbulletin/c...exture-alcantara-tastefully-modded-clean.html

E39 540iT:
https://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1245562

535xi E61 Touring:
https://bmw.spoolstreet.com/threads/another-e61-project-wagon.4618/

The "N54 Powered E61 M5 Wagon"
https://bmw.spoolstreet.com/threads/twin-turbo-wagon-evans-e61-build-log.559/


The new addition to the fleet is a 2012 X5 diesel. I am very excited about this as a project since at the heart of this vehicle is the M57 motor which is wildly underappreciated in the US. Offering torque, reliability, and efficiency it's has great attributes for a fun daily driver.

The plans for this is vehicle are fairly conservative relative to my other projects and the plan is to enhance the performance, dynamics, and reliability while not sacrificing anything in exchange. Plans include:

- F85 X5M or F10 M5 brakes
- F10 M5 steering wheel
- JR 2.8 tune and supporting mods
- XHP X Delete and Transmission tune
- Upgraded headlights, fog lights, and reverse light
- Style 612M wheels (done)
- Revised Fitment (taller tires, KW V3 or springs)
- 3rd row delete, rear seat entertainment delete
- Stealth tow hitch.
- Fender flared, M Sport front bumper
- Clear Bra + Tint
- Mas


Here are the stock specs:

08/2012
78,XXX
Platinum Grey Metallic over Black
1 owner Southern California vehicle
Premium Package
Sport Package
Comfort Access
Comfort Seats: Heated/Ventilated/Active Driver
Heated Rear Seats + Steering Wheel
Technology Pakcage
Lighting Package
3rd Row + Rear Air Suspension
Rear Seat Entertainment
Soft Close Doors


LET'S GO!!!!

A rare picture of one of my vehicles in stock form...

Pulling in the garage after driving it home

Had some 612M wheels waiting

Style 335 (19") vs Style 612 (21")

Ooooffffph

Saving 10-12lbs a corner of unsprung mass and rotational weight, nice!

Much better, Day 1 was a success

Interior received an emergency cleaning to remove all the oily/greasy/nasty interior shine the dealership covered everything with.

Next up was debadging the tailgate and front doors. Heat gun, plastic razor, some "finger grease" and goo gone.

Followed up with the DA polisher and some Chemical Guys V36

This stupid thing....

Hope the BMW engineer who thought this was a good way to store the DVD screen was fired....

Phone cradle delete, will follow up with the OEM delete plate later

More chrome delete. Exhaust tips were removed, cleaned, scuffed, cleaned, primed, and painted with satin black high temp paint

Rear reflectors were also dipped black, don't worry I have some color matched paint on the way and will DIY color match the F/R reflectors

Monochromatic roundals

 

[TwinTurboWagon]

I had some gloss black vinyl left over from a project so I wrapped the front reflectors, I can't stand amber

Here is a before/after with all the above changes.

After

Put the mountain bike racks on

Backing up X5s info for XHP license

As a temp solution until I really upgrade the headlights I replaced the stock bulbs with some Osram CBB, not cheap but as you can see they offer much better intensity than the old stock bulbs

 

[TwinTurboWagon]

Operation "kill all amber" continues with some LED turn signal bulbs

Removed the bumper and the lower splash shields to poke around see what's what. Everything is very clean and no major oil leaks. Very un-BMW

Garage TVs/Monitors FTW

Flashed XHP XDelete. I like run this on one of my E61 wagons and really like the refined steering feel. With no servotronic and 285 tires up front the steering is a bit heavy so I am hoping this will help that a bit, it might also improve fuel efficiency.

With the bumper off I decided to continue blacking out some items.

The small silver romboid around the front cameras was particularly annoying and after exmaining it's texture I wasn't confident paint would adhere well to it so I removed the reflectors and wrapped the complete assembly in gloss black (had it lying around). It looks SO much better IMO.

My goal was to run the beefiest setup possible. The tires already have enough width so increasing the aspect ratio is next, I am a big fan of running taller tires as it adds more cushion for ride comfort and also help fill the wheel wells. The X5 is in particular need of this but unfortunately the wheel carrier/upper ball joint is in a rather inconvenient location.

Stock Michelin PSSs are 285/35 325/30. I found some 285/45 325/40 Continental 5Ps which are OEM equipment on AMG Mercedes SUVs. I found a front tire on eBay and purchased it to test fit....

Here is the stock 285/45 Michelin

285/45 Continental

Bummer

In addition to the spindle-tire contact the inner edge of the tires would have rubbed at full lock so this tire size NOT working was for the best but in terms of added tire meat and the juggernaut like aesthetics it would have been exactly what I was shooting for.

When the dust settled and the tire was returned I was only out $35 for 2 tire mountings, 1 balancing, and return shipping on the tire so it was a worth while experiment, now I know.

Moving forward I need to decide if I should go with taller but slightly narrower 275/40 315/35 Hankook S1 Nobles (OE Porsche tires) or just stick with the wider but shorter Michelins. For now I might just run the Michelins until they are toast and then revisit options.

To make sure steering feel and lightness was optimized I also flushed the PS fluid with some new CHF11s

A couple updated pics, killed many bugs driving out to Lake Havasu, AZ for Easter

 

[TwinTurboWagon]

Had some time to dig a little deep into the engine bay. Removed the intake manifold to check carbon.

Not too bad, this is the runner in valve cover

Swirl flap

Bottom of flaps were weeping.

Plan was to delete the flaps but ordered the wrong (22mm) plugs. SMH

Decided to clean the manifold. Technique was a good soaking in Super Clean followed by power washing and proved to be quite effective.

After a few hours the solution was as dark as night

Here are the results, CLEAN!

I replaced all manifold gaskets but these are aftermarket and I am not thrilled with the fitment, they are a bit thin and don't fill out the recess.

LOL!

Removed the rear entertainment system

This center console is a pretty elaborate structure

I have a nice little kit assembled if anyone needs this. Comes complete with the bracket and hardware.

Flashed Rod Sutphin's transmission tune, excited to try this out, I hear great things. I also have a new pan/filter and fluid on the way to service the trans

 

[TwinTurboWagon]

Purchased a used rear upper console trim off ebay to replace the DVD monitor and got a new phone delete plate for the the inner storage (from ECS Tuning).

 

[TwinTurboWagon]

Putting "the truck" to use transporting a panoramic roof cassette for my E61

License plates arrived. The original hardware was 2 rusty Philips head bolts, I replaced it with some black allen bolts with washers. This will look real clean once the personalized plate arrives.

With the X5 debadged this will help enthusiasts know what motor is under the hood, common civilians will have no idea what's going on which is just the way I like it. If you know, you know.

Adding a wireless charger. What's slick about this setup is the charger is mounted to the ash tray which can easily pop out if needed.

Weekend projects:
Transmission service
Cleaned manifold (again)
Swirl flap delete.
I was going to do vacuum lines as well but I will save that for when I do the downpipe.

Fluid, pan, mechatronics sleeves, bridge, and connector seal.

Yummy

RealOEM FTW

Cleaned the trans support (and other splash panels not pictured).

WTF is this sorry excuse of a transfer case bushing? I was surprised to find out the X5M bushing is nearly identical. With all the TQ of the M57 motor and this offset mount only on one side this seems like it would be a good item to reinforce with a solid rubber mount.

Inspected the transmission wiring connector to confirm pin locations, I will be adding an X5M wheel with paddles and need to run wiring from the wheel all the way to this connector.

Still have to crack open the filter but magnets looked fine with what I understand as a normal amount of metal powder/paste.

New bridge seal and sealing sleeves installed.

Patiently waiting for the trans fluid to get up to temp during refill....

Used a WiFi endoscope to peak down into the valves. All things considered they look great, the only CBU I need to address is on the plastic portion of the valve cover. I will wait to clean that once I have another excuse to pull the cover since it should be and easy task and won't require walnut blasting.

Manifold cleaned, power washed, dried w/ compressed air, and reassembled with swirl flap deletes.

 

[TwinTurboWagon]

Some quick snaps while running errands. I have a black kidney grill on the way.

 

[TwinTurboWagon]

Depo smoked indicators

With the exterior theme of the X5 getting darker the rear lower valance (Titanium color stock) got Dipped.

Upgraded the rear sway bar to an Ultra Racing bar, this is the beefiest sway I could find for the E70. This is 24mm compared to my OEM 21mm. Endlinks were also replaced with Meyle HD units.

Nav screen and the anti-glare coating has seen better days so I hit it with a 3" DA polisher and some Chem Guys V38

People on FB (apparently those who have never done this mod) were in an uproar saying this was super dumb and they would never do it as the glare would be unbearable.... mmmkay.

Like a GLOVE.... OEM style 167 M6 wheels fit nicely in the rear.

Picked up a M Sport steering wheel. I am on the hunt for a clean heated M Sport/X5m wheel but in the meantime I came across this nonheated wheel for a great price so I will run this in the meantime. I also prefer the M sport paddles over the X5M paddles so I can keep these paddles and make a hybrid wheel if I end up with an X5M wheel, which I probably will.

I am always shocked at how careless dismantlers are with parts considering they plan on selling them. This wheel has a tiny little cut up top and a few dents on the left side of the wheel. I have already used a heat gun and some finger massaging to relieve some of the creases and are about 50% better, I will see if I can find a local upholstery shop that can maybe fully release them.

Stud Conversion in the works, waiting for spacers and fender flares.

 

[TwinTurboWagon]

Coming from the N54 world one of the aspects of the M57 that gets me really fired up is strength and reliability.

This is what happened to cylinder #3 on my first N54 motor. Direct injection + port injection + misfire + some extra PI spray = detonation. It was a wild ride when she let go, fire and skidding out of control.

Oil pan almost blew completely off and there were punctures all over the block

1 doggo power

15F 20R H&R spacers

While installing fender flares I also popped off the front bumper and did a quick Morimoto xb LED fog light retrofit.

Here is the evolution of the front end. REALLY liking the black fog lights.

Time for a wash.

Here are some pictures with the new flares, spacers, wheel studs, and LED fog light retrofit.

In regards to fitment the next item will be running taller aspect ratio tired to fill up the wheel wells, after tires I will lower as needed to eliminate excessive wheel gap.

 

[TwinTurboWagon]

I replaced worn Start/Stop and AC fan speed (not shown) buttons.

Got some pedals from Ultimate Pedals, I have ran a pair on my old E39 M5 and am on my second set on my white E61, they are extremely well made and I am a big fan or brushed metals in interiors.

Details

Before

During

After

In my eyes this is a nice sporty/classy touch to the interior.

 

[TwinTurboWagon]

Getting back to the OEM hitch install

These are all the goodies included in the kit

I wasn't going to put up with the excessive bumper trimming required to fit the OEM hitch so I decided to modify the angle of the plate that mounts the trailer wiring connector. I cut it off and ground it flush with an angle grinder

Paid a local welder $20 to mount it back on

OEM crash bar vs OEM hitch, the hitch is real beefy and weighs about 55lbs

Hitch bolted up, you can see the nee vertical orientation of the connector ....and all the scratches the welder added to the hitch while moving it around. I used some Duplicolor semi-gloss paint which matched the OEM finish very well.

Moving onto the wiring

Previous owners had little kids, I have now collected about 10-12 Lego pieces from the interior. Battery area got a vacuum.

Wiring ran to fuse block and module installed.

Trimming was a little tedious but I am happy with the results.

In this photo the 4 pin connector/adapter is installed, some people inquired if it would sit too low in the new position, no.

Clean!

Added +AHMU to the vehicle order and then followed that up with some additional module coding

Some module coding included rear view camera zoom for aligning a trailer

The setup with the new 1UP Super Duty bike rack installed. It is the only rack would fit my monster 1360mm wheelbase Pole Evolink.

 

[Torgus]

I see you also like to buy cars that can be a pain in the ass, see n54 m57.

Did you notice a large change with the rear bar install? Would you do it again?

Any more info on coding the rear camera for a trailer? Would help me when I hook up my deck boat granted I only do it twice a year or so.

Love all the pics and mods. Once you do the deletes and tune you will really like it! I have a JBdiesel tuner I don't need if you want it for cheap. It is well worth the money I assure you.

The rear entertainment I assume hits you arm? What are you asking? My son might like it but honestly I don't want to pay much I assume there is no AV in? Maybe a straight up trade as we both have a parts we do not want or need?

How are the new fogs? I have a cracked lens on one side and have been thinking about doing the same. The darker fog looks great on the grey. I have a black and a white x5. Both look much better with the darker accents.


Edit iND sells painted front and rear reflectors I like mine. I could of had my local shop spray them for me as the front bumper takes like 5m to get off but it was more convenient to use them. Glad you went with the LCI version, looks much more updated.

 

[TwinTurboWagon]

Did you notice a large change with the rear bar install?

Any more info on coding the rear camera for a trailer? Would help me when I hook up my deck boat.

Love all the pics and mods. Once you delete and tune you will really like it! I have a JBdiesel tuner I don't need if you want it for cheap. It is well worth the money I assure you.

The rear entertainment I assume hits you arm? What are you asking? Maybe a straight up trade as we both have a part we do not want?

Large change? No, the difference is subtle but positive.

Coding info here: https://xoutpost.com/1063065-post5.html

I researched the JBD and was intrigued since I have a JB4 on my E61 but with the mixed feedback I read on it I decided just to wait and do it "right" by deleting + tuning. JR 2.8 or Malone 2.9 are the finalists I am considering, 2.8 seems perfect and I really appreciate how low-soot the tune is but the competitive pricing of the Malone grabs my attention. I am going to try and find some local members who have the tunes to ride along with if possible.

Unfortunately I already sold the rear seat entertainment to another forum member.

Evan

 

[Torgus]

Large change? No, the difference is subtle but positive.

Coding info here: https://xoutpost.com/1063065-post5.html

I researched the JBD and was intrigued since I have a JB4 on my E61 but with the mixed feedback I read on it I decided just to wait and do it "right" by deleting + tuning. JR 2.8 or Malone 2.9 are the finalists I am considering, 2.8 seems perfect and I really appreciate how low-soot the tune is but the competitive pricing of the Malone grabs my attention. I am going to try and find some local members who have the tunes to ride along with if possible.

Unfortunately I already sold the rear seat entertainment to another forum member.

Evan

People can flash through the obd2 now. Might want to look into it. No more sending off your DME and having a locked tune.

Honestly I would give you the JBD as long as you mail it back when you do the deletes. You are obviously an enthusiast and not a facebook asshat.

Any comment on the fogs? I edited my post right as you responded.

I have been pushing @Tiago@VRSF to make an x5D intercooler. Our only option is atm at 700. While a nice intercooler the price is high. Cheaper and more effective to run meth. I will probably do both next year as the x5D still feels very slow.

How did you like the tranny reflash? Worth the cost? Any mpg improvements or anything worth talking about.

Nice to have another X5D on the forum.

 

[TwinTurboWagon]

People can flash through the obd2 now. Might want to look into it. No more sending off your DME and having a locked tune.

Honestly I would give you the JBD as long as you mail it back when you do the deletes. You are obviously an enthusiast and not a facebook asshat.

Any comment on the fogs? I edited my post right as you responded.

I have been pushing @Tiago@VRSF to make an x5D intercooler. Our only option is atm at 700. While a nice intercooler the price is high. Cheaper and more effective to run meth. I will probably do both next year as the x5D still feels very slow.

How did you like the tranny reflash? Worth the cost? Any mpg improvements or anything worth talking about.

Nice to have another X5D on the forum.

Yes, I agree; nice to have another performance minded X5D owner here and happy that Tyler gives the diesel engines their own category. The torque, efficiency, and reliability are a superb fit for a daily driver IMO and factor in depreciation making these vehicles 1/4 of their MSRP they are also great deals.

The fogs, I have a bit of experience with these Morimoto LED units and assuming you get the right optics the output, build quality, and reliability are great. In this particular application when I have some time I will revise the mounting by adding a rear housing cap to keep moisture out. The LED fogs I used are sealed but the way I mounted them to the X5 housings essentially make it like a dual pane glass so although there is no possible harm to the LED fogs, the external lens of the X5 fog can fog up from moisture after a wash which isn't acceptable for my standards as I am an automotive lighting nerd. I will also be upgrading the projectors and doing some other fun stuff when the headlights are open.

The ATM is a nice option as it includes the necessary hardware, plugs, etc. but I agree the price is a bit steep. I was eyeing up the N54 based "race" stepped intercoolers are they look very close in dimensions, in/out piping angles, and mounting locations. I also love retrofitting things (I was the first to fit the 7" intercooler to the E6X chassis) but I think when the dust settles the money saved on retrofitting another intercooler to the X5D would be negligible when you consider the extra time and parts involved. It's still an option but I am not nearly as motivated as I originally was.

The Suthpin tune is nice, I rarely drive it in S or M and I honestly don't care much about the "I want to race people and want the fastest shifts possible" although the people who care about racing seem to be ecstatic with Rod's work. My priorities are to have crisp and smooth shifts with the trans being more intelligent in general, kind of making the 6HP act like an 8HP. Rod has been nice to work with, he is always updating revising the tunes and I like how the off-the-shelf tunes are vehicle specific with revisions for turbos setup etc. I didn't really notice any jump in mpg but my X5 seems to be a bit lower on the mpg scale compared to others but I also drive briskly and cruise in the 78-82mph range on the highway which really destroys mpg as the X5D has short gearing (IMO).
I would recommend his tune.


As for the JBD I would gladly take you up on your offer to borrow and return your piggyback tuner. It would be a nice opportunity to test it and appease my curiosity, I love collecting my own data on stuff. It seems like a great power-bang for your buck but then I read about how it dumps fuel into the system and can create a lot of carbon/soot. Clogging the DPF isn't a real concern as it's days are numbered anyways but carbon build up and lower MPG isn't appealing buuuuuuuut more power is! lol What has been your experience with the JBD? What setting did you run it in? What were your observations on MPG and what did your butt-dyno read? The claimed power figures on the BMS website seem pretty lofty.

 

[triath301]

Nice setup!

 

[Torgus]

Yes, I agree; nice to have another performance minded X5D owner here and happy that Tyler gives the diesel engines their own category. The torque, efficiency, and reliability are a superb fit for a daily driver IMO and factor in depreciation making these vehicles 1/4 of their MSRP they are also great deals.

The fogs, I have a bit of experience with these Morimoto LED units and assuming you get the right optics the output, build quality, and reliability are great. In this particular application when I have some time I will revise the mounting by adding a rear housing cap to keep moisture out. The LED fogs I used are sealed but the way I mounted them to the X5 housings essentially make it like a dual pane glass so although there is no possible harm to the LED fogs, the external lens of the X5 fog can fog up from moisture after a wash which isn't acceptable for my standards as I am an automotive lighting nerd. I will also be upgrading the projectors and doing some other fun stuff when the headlights are open.

The ATM is a nice option as it includes the necessary hardware, plugs, etc. but I agree the price is a bit steep. I was eyeing up the N54 based "race" stepped intercoolers are they look very close in dimensions, in/out piping angles, and mounting locations. I also love retrofitting things (I was the first to fit the 7" intercooler to the E6X chassis) but I think when the dust settles the money saved on retrofitting another intercooler to the X5D would be negligible when you consider the extra time and parts involved. It's still an option but I am not nearly as motivated as I originally was.

The Suthpin tune is nice, I rarely drive it in S or M and I honestly don't care much about the "I want to race people and want the fastest shifts possible" although the people who care about racing seem to be ecstatic with Rod's work. My priorities are to have crisp and smooth shifts with the trans being more intelligent in general, kind of making the 6HP act like an 8HP. Rod has been nice to work with, he is always updating revising the tunes and I like how the off-the-shelf tunes are vehicle specific with revisions for turbos setup etc. I didn't really notice any jump in mpg but my X5 seems to be a bit lower on the mpg scale compared to others but I also drive briskly and cruise in the 78-82mph range on the highway which really destroys mpg as the X5D has short gearing (IMO).
I would recommend his tune.


As for the JBD I would gladly take you up on your offer to borrow and return your piggyback tuner. It would be a nice opportunity to test it and appease my curiosity, I love collecting my own data on stuff. It seems like a great power-bang for your buck but then I read about how it dumps fuel into the system and can create a lot of carbon/soot. Clogging the DPF isn't a real concern as it's days are numbered anyways but carbon build up and lower MPG isn't appealing buuuuuuuut more power is! lol What has been your experience with the JBD? What setting did you run it in? What were your observations on MPG and what did your butt-dyno read? The claimed power figures on the BMS website seem pretty lofty.

Sorry just read your response. Did my JBD show up yet? It's a super quick install. let me know how you like it.

I can hit 30 MPG at 72 MPH on the highway fully deleted and tuned which I think is INSANE for a 5000 lb brick of an SUV. The low end tq of the diesel motor makes it the best choice engine wise in my opinion. With a tune it is even better. Get's out of it's own way decently fast, given what it is, around town & city driving.

So you are saying I should get the auto tune eh? I have wasted money on much stupider things so I guess I will. I assume I just download it from the app store and flash right?

I agree about the ATM intercooler. The hassle of fitting another probably is not worth it and you will spend the same or not more if you put a value on your time and energy spent. I plan on picking one up and adding a meth kit at the same time. Max out the stock turbos and see what it an really do...granted I don't race anyone in my X5. I have an e92 for playing around and doing stupid things in. VRSF has said they are going to release one but that same story has been going on for well over a year if not two.

If you find a good way to put a rear cap on the fog lights let me know. I have a cracked one so I would be happy to pick a set up from you if you want to build them for me and I send you $$$. Very quick to swap out as the front bumper comes off in all of 3 minutes. I can swap my LED bulbs over to my wife's white 35D.

 

[TwinTurboWagon]

Sorry just read your response. Did my JBD show up yet? It's a super quick install. let me know how you like it.

I can hit 30 MPG at 72 MPH on the highway fully deleted and tuned which I think is INSANE for a 5000 lb brick of an SUV. The low end tq of the diesel motor makes it the best choice engine wise in my opinion. With a tune it is even better. Get's out of it's own way decently fast, given what it is, around town & city driving.

So you are saying I should get the auto tune eh? I have wasted money on much stupider things so I guess I will. I assume I just download it from the app store and flash right?

I agree about the ATM intercooler. The hassle of fitting another probably is not worth it and you will spend the same or not more if you put a value on your time and energy spent. I plan on picking one up and adding a meth kit at the same time. Max out the stock turbos and see what it an really do...granted I don't race anyone in my X5. I have an e92 for playing around and doing stupid things in. VRSF has said they are going to release one but that same story has been going on for well over a year if not two.

If you find a good way to put a rear cap on the fog lights let me know. I have a cracked one so I would be happy to pick a set up from you if you want to build them for me and I send you $$$. Very quick to swap out as the front bumper comes off in all of 3 minutes. I can swap my LED bulbs over to my wife's white 35D.

JBD arrived safely, thank you. I haven't had a chance to install yet as my girlfriend's Prius which she normally commutes in had the cats stolen and she is driving the X5D until the Prius is back to normal. I want to do some testing on JBD settings while driving the engine cold/warm/etc. to see if/when error codes would pop up and what they are linked to. I want to extract as much power as possible but keep the reliability bulletproof.

Nice numbers, that is what I am hoping to be around if not better with the larger diameter rear tires I plan on running. I have been chatting with a guy in Texas who has some interesting fuel system and drivetrain lubrication solutions which help MPG and he can get 28mpg at 82mph (cruise control) and projects 30+ in the 7Xmph range. He is NOT deleted which is impressive. I currently get around 20-21 at 80mph.

I will keep you posted on the fogs once I have some time to play around with then.

Evan

 

[Torgus]

JBD arrived safely, thank you. I haven't had a chance to install yet as my girlfriend's Prius which she normally commutes in had the cats stolen and she is driving the X5D until the Prius is back to normal. I want to do some testing on JBD settings while driving the engine cold/warm/etc. to see if/when error codes would pop up and what they are linked to. I want to extract as much power as possible but keep the reliability bulletproof.

Nice numbers, that is what I am hoping to be around if not better with the larger diameter rear tires I plan on running. I have been chatting with a guy in Texas who has some interesting fuel system and drivetrain lubrication solutions which help MPG and he can get 28mpg at 82mph (cruise control) and projects 30+ in the 7Xmph range. He is NOT deleted which is impressive. I currently get around 20-21 at 80mph.

I will keep you posted on the fogs once I have some time to play around with then.

Evan

Let me know what that guy uses. If he can get 28 stock I would guess that would be closer to 35+ mpg deleted? Do you go on the x5 forums? Any of them any good?

Some module coding included rear view camera zoom for aligning a trailer <-- what did you use and how did you code it? That would help with the boat trailer.

 

[TwinTurboWagon]

Let me know what that guy uses. If he can get 28 stock I would guess that would be closer to 35+ mpg deleted? Do you go on the x5 forums? Any of them any good?

Some module coding included rear view camera zoom for aligning a trailer <-- what did you use and how did you code it? That would help with the boat trailer.

I code the old school way with NCSExpert, WinKFP, INPA, etc. Here is some more info: https://xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-forums...dM_6L90aeI1kOX_x007AqQRZWkHbKi5DoNjUz-ydlAoYQ

As for the fuel system it's called the Phantom Fuel System but there isn't much info on it online, essentially it's an in-line fuel filter like device that excites the fuel as it passes through making the fuel burn more complete, it can be used on all types of fuels. He also uses "S3" which is like an oil additive and can be used in engines, transmission, and differentials, you add 10% during an oil change and it coats the internals and keeps things moving, the oil itself is supposed to offer 5-10% better MPG and the fuel system is more like 15%+ MPG boost. He runs both with the oil in the engine and diffs but hasn't added it to the trans. He also knows of a trick degreaser from the airline industry which can completely clean the DPF when soaked overnight but won't harm the metal. It's all cool stuff.

I am trying to get one of the fuel systems to test first hand and if all goes well I might try organize a group buy or sell them on the side. It all sounds promising but also a bit too good to be true hence me wanting to collect my own data.

As for X5 forums, there is XBimmers which is probably the best for the e70 and there is also XOutPost but it's more geared towards E53s. The 335d section under E90 post is probably the most extensive M57 related content although it isn't X5 specific.