Z4 - anyone running VRSF 7.5" stepped race intercooler FMIC?

[fmorelli]

I'm running an ER Competition FMIC right now. Maybe my head is under a rock, but I recently saw VRSF has a stepped 7.5 race FMIC for the Z4. Anyone running it? Or is it literally about to come out?

Filippo

 

[1and1]

I did think they were next month, aside from any betas...

If they're half as good as the PR version I highly encourage it!
Nothing like watching your boost temps drop during a run.

 

[Asbjorn]

I ran the HD version of the VRSF 7.5 stepped FMIC previously. It did well on track. Then because I wanted better water cooling, I downgraded to the nonHD 7in non-stepped version and was terribly terribly disappointed. Then I cut the stepped part off the 7.5 and used it as a "HD" 7in FMIC, because I thought maybe it was the lack of HD core that was the problem. However IATs were still way way too high on track. Then I upgraded to the ER competition FMIC made for the M235i which has the same frontal area as the 7.5 without being stepped. I also added WI. Now I am satisfied with my IATs on track again. As a bonus I am able to run a small auxiliary radiator behind the FMIC.

I have several track logs for every single configuration, all done with the same power level and turbos, just let me know what you need. As for installation process and/or issues I probably wont be able to help.

 

[fmorelli]

Correct me if I read your comments wrong - the VRSF 7.5 stepped race FMIC listed above? You were happy with it? BUT ... you decided to do different cooling work, for which the stepped race FMIC interfered, so you switched out for different packaging?

Filippo

 

[Asbjorn]

Correct me if I read your comments wrong - the VRSF 7.5 stepped race FMIC listed above? You were happy with it? BUT ... you decided to do different cooling work, for which the stepped race FMIC interfered, so you switched out for different packaging?

Filippo

Yes it's a great fmic. And I ended up going back to a similar sized fmic just without the stepped part. I highly recommend any 1400cm2 / 220in2 FMIC (eg 7.5, evo3, the ER I am using etc) over the smaller ones (eg 5in, 7in, the ER you are using etc). Because in my experience its the frontal area that makes all the difference, especially from lap number two on a track.

 

[MDORPHN]

I don't (yet) have a lot of data, but preliminary testing suggests dramatic improvements in my IATs with a Wagner Evo3 ic. FWIW, I've previously run a Helix intercooler, a VRSF 7' HD race and a very large custom intercooler built by Overrev Fabrication.

Neil

 

[Asbjorn]

I don't (yet) have a lot of data, but preliminary testing suggests dramatic improvements in my IATs with a Wagner Evo3 ic. FWIW, I've previously run a Helix intercooler, a VRSF 7' HD race and a very large custom intercooler built by Overrev Fabrication.

Neil

You mean compared to VRSF 7 HD or VRSF 7.5 HD race? I don't think the 7in is called race?

 

[MDORPHN]

You mean compared to VRSF 7 HD or VRSF 7.5 HD race? I don't think the 7in is called race?

I don't believe VRSF sells it anymore, but it was the non-stepped ic with the HD core.

Neil

 

[Asbjorn]

I don't believe VRSF sells it anymore, but it was the non-stepped ic with the HD core.

Neil

Gotcha, thats the 7in HD. That FMIC is terrible om track. The 7.5 race is much more similar to the evo3, but heavier (bar plate vs tube fin) with the pros and cons that each of those technologies represent.

In the end both are 220in2 FMICs so both are approved by me.

 

[fmorelli]

The benefit of the Z4 is huge area in the nose. Unfortunately the 1M is dealing with tight quarters. Thanks, @Asbjorn.

Filippo

 

[WedgePerformance]

I have the race core installed on my Z4. Fits fine, just need to close all the gaps to keep the air from going around it.