[ritzzzzzwik]

*******Disclaimer- I am not getting paid by any vendor for writing this review (tough it certainly would be cool :P )************************************************* ************

Just like the title this review is probably going to “drive a wedge” between the two groups who’ve been at each other’s throats since the beginning of tuning- Piggyback v Flash. But I don’t care about the bloodbath that’s about to follow. I just want to tell you about my experience, and maybe get some people off the fence, and get them to go custom tune.

Like most of you I was attracted to this platform for its tremendous potential (almost legendary now) for power. For some weird reason (Impulsive buying) I did not end up with an E92 M3 (I use torque and mileage justify my buy, but I know I want one!). The fact that this car got me to bring it home with me, tells me there was something special. I was very impressed, and was sort of mad at BMW for almost stifling the N54 355i, just so that they could make sure it didn’t jump all over it big brother. But when has that ever stopped anyone for unleashing the mountain of power that hides within.

I had known about the potential of the N54 for a few years even before I bought mine. I sort of had a starting point in my mind, and of course this wonder forum. I went the usual route Tune, FBO, suspension yada yada. But I am only going to speak about the most impactful power mod- The Tune!

I must have spent hours trying to figure which one to get JB4, Proceed, COBB; you know the names. And I decided JB4 (best bang/hp per dollar), and I am happy to say I wasn’t disappointed. This was like a revelation to me. Where was all this power hiding? Stock, the car almost feels like a canal boat! Soon I went FBO, and the JB4 proved to be the gift that kept on giving. The car now felt like a proper beast, and I loved it so, so much. But of course there was a problem- I did not like the throttle response, and how on some days it felt less powerful, and on others it was a monster; also I wanted to join the 400whp club (pointless in a philosophical way, but I wanted it none the less).

To me the problem was quite clear- a piggyback must “lie” to the system to get it to perform out of it designated programming range. Having a background in computer engineering (building my creds here lol), I knew this was not the most optimized way. So based on how the JB4 read the conditions to be it did what it had to, to make the power. Which meant it wasn’t always consistent. The answer ofcourse was, a flash! It is possible through JB4 backend, but the OTS maps won’t get me to the 400 whp number, for which I needed a custom tune. Sure there is a free BB flash system, but I am no tuner, and I didn’t want to blow my engine because of my inability to properly understand the game. Time for more research!

My research led me to believe the only way I can get all that I wanted, was through pro tuner, but which one?

I contacted a bunch of them, and they all were willing, but kind of skeptical about the 400whp number, on 93Octane pump gas. Yes on 93 Octane! You can of course reach those numbers and beyond with meth, or E85, but that’s too much added work, and I am lazy! I wanted a car that could make that power just by filling up on the fuel that’s readily available.

Just as I was about to lay my plans to rest Ken from WedgePerformace responded, and said it was doable. I was impressed with his confidence, and based on what I had read about Wedge, he wasn’t kidding. So the process started- Got set up on MHD, took out JB4, logging, and maps. Boy there was an instant improvement! I’m happy to report, the car almost feels NA over 2.5K RPM, sure some may say its not, but I cant tell the difference. If i didnt know it had snails, I'd never guess. The throttle is very linear, and makes power all the way to the redline. Earlier when stock, and even with JB4 it made very little sense going to the redline. Right around 5.5K RPM it felt like the car had hit a brick wall. The engine wouldn’t pull. Not anymore! Of course pulling beyond 6K RPM is still not very rewarding, because there isn’t much power to be had, but you can go all the way if you wanted to, without the power falling off a cliff. I’ve had a few revisions now, and each one has made the car feel better. Ken response time, and service are absolutely top notch. Sometimes he’d get back in just a matter of minutes. The car now runs better than it ever has. It is quite the monster now, making a tad over 400whp on 93 Octane pump gas (remember stock turbos at 112K miles and no inlets yet). What more could one ask for!

So whats the take away- If you care about the linearity of throttle, and consistency of power, go custom tune; and if you want the best - go WedgePerformance!

[Nonecure]

+1 for Wedge, BuraQ, and Martial

[WedgePerformance]

Just a little disclaimer... Not all cars can achieve 400 whp on pump only.

Fuel quality plays a big role in how much timing can be applied throughout the RPM range. As boost decreases and RPM's increase, timing can ramp up to keep power more linear. Without quality fuel (with ethanol), your performance will suffer.

I know a lot of members know this already, but for those just looking for information keep reading.

Another factor is maintenance. Members have shown that intake valve cleaning drastically impacts performance. Spark plugs and coils also play a big part in making sure your car can handle the performance demand on all supporting components.

Two components that I feel really impact performance are the air filter and FMIC. For most applications, stock turbo cars on pump fuel won't benefit much going FBO. FMIC has the biggest impact on consistent performance. A stock FMIC cannot disperse the heat quick enough causing heat soak and reduction in performance as the car pulls timing. A quality FMIC should be installed to ensure consistence. Drop in filter will help with increased air flow. DCI are not much more, but if you want to retain the cold air intake, drop in filter is recommended.

Spend the time and money to ensure you car is running at peak performance.

[RCOLEMAN545]

+1 for MHD and Wedge. Couldn't ask for much more. OP are you running DCI or drop in filter?

[Two Snails]

And this is the start to his modding process

[AaronZ34]

E85 is really hard. I had to like, take out my fuel bucket, and put a plug and play one in. It was like rocket science. But at least I'm not aiming for a mediocre power number. And I don't have to think a Wedge tune is good.

[ritzzzzzwik]

Originally Posted by RCOLEMAN545

+1 for MHD and Wedge. Couldn't ask for much more. OP are you running DCI or drop in filter?

DCI

[Lambobimmer]

I also had an excellent experience with Ken and BuraQ. I fail to see any reason why anybody would want to still run JB4. It is outdated technology. What other platforms are still using a Piggyback's anyways? I have nothing against BMS but the JB4 was designed prior to anyone figuring out the DME and MHD is far superior.

[WedgePerformance]

New v6 E40 on a 100% Stock E92 Sport AT with 128k miles running only E30 because the LPFP wasn't strong enough for E40 and the car has never been walnut blasted. So you know it's down on power.

[335is-dct]

Originally Posted by WedgePerformance

New v6 E40 on a 100% Stock E92 Sport AT with 128k miles running only E30 because the LPFP wasn't strong enough for E40 and the car has never been walnut blasted. So you know it's down on power.

Eta on v6 map release for dct cars?

[WedgePerformance]

Originally Posted by 335is-dct

Eta on v6 map release for dct cars?

Still not in the public testing yet, but if you send me a screen shot of your MHD Store and license page, I can send you a map so you can do DCT testing. So far, we have had really great results with the EU DCT cars.

Need to know fuel / mods. WedgePerformance@gmail.com

[panadol]

Originally Posted by AaronZ34

E85 is really hard. I had to like, take out my fuel bucket, and put a plug and play one in. It was like rocket science. But at least I'm not aiming for a mediocre power number. And I don't have to think a Wedge tune is good.

Because everyone have access to E85, am I right?

[ritzzzzzwik]

Originally Posted by AaronZ34

E85 is really hard. I had to like, take out my fuel bucket, and put a plug and play one in. It was like rocket science. But at least I'm not aiming for a mediocre power number. And I don't have to think a Wedge tune is good.

Regardless, if you are looking to maximize performance you should be getting a custom tune for your car, doesn't have to be Wedge, even though I highly recommend.

Great if you have access to E85. I have to drive 20 miles at least. Also it isn't the most practical.

Good luck with your build. 400whp is enough for me on a DD, with a couple of track runs a year. I'd rather spend my money on a lsd next.

[V8bait]

Lolol op said he didn't want meth/e85 etc because he's lazy not because of availability. Y'all be trippin.

400hp really isn't that much. You can get kias, hyundais, and tons of trucks with 400hp these days. Regardless I'm just waiting to see the dyno and logs here, i always find it interesting seeing people push pump gas to the limit. Ken will get you to your goals I have no doubt.

[Bbqbob]

What's a good drop in filter to get? Trying to have the car as "stock" looking as possible. I see some debate about K&N, other brands, whats good? Im in Australia if that means much (so not too cold, not too hot here either)

[WedgePerformance]

As much as people like to hype over 400 whp pump maps, the reality is usually 380 whp on 93 octane. You can squeeze more out of a custom map as long as the car is well modified, well maintained, and the fuel is really good.

Or, you can spike the octane and run my new Stage 2 FMIC 95oct/102ron MHD map. I'm releasing the new map for the EU guys that have 102 ron.

Considering my 100% stock turbo car with 128k miles on the clock has never had a walnut blast put down 394.07 whp and 425.86 wtq.... 400 whp shouldn't be an issue for those who just want to play on the weekend with a shot of Torco octane booster or a few gal of E85.

Bottom line, it's all about smooth linear, usable power...

This is a look at OPs log.. I'm not saying this is a 400 whp log, but it should be close.

[ritzzzzzwik]

^ +1 I want to point out that throughout the process, the "400 whp" number mattered less than how the car felt. I'm sure the car probably hit that number on at times with a piggypack, but it never felt as smooth. The power wasn't as easily available or with the same linearity. I do look at my virtual dyno numbers and maybe I'll take it to a dyno as well, after my rattling turbos are replaced, but the peak HP number just isnt that important to me anymore

Also an attached screenshot from virtual Dyno (plesae dont read too much into just the numbers). These are 4 different runs, at 4 different times, at 4 different places. Whats noticeable is the consistency of it.

Bottom line is the car feels strong all the time. I recently was at the dealer looking to get the M235, and I preferred my car over that. Which says something I suppose.

[V8bait]

Originally Posted by ritzzzzzwik

^ +1 I want to point out that throughout the process, the "400 whp" number mattered less than how the car felt. I'm sure the car probably hit that number on at times with a piggypack, but it never felt as smooth. The power wasn't as easily available or with the same linearity. I do look at my virtual dyno numbers and maybe I'll take it to a dyno as well, after my rattling turbos are replaced, but the peak HP number just isnt that important to me anymore

Also an attached screenshot from virtual Dyno (plesae dont read too much into just the numbers). These are 4 different runs, at 4 different times, at 4 different places. Whats noticeable is the consistency of it.

Bottom line is the car feels strong all the time. I recently was at the dealer looking to get the M235, and I preferred my car over that. Which says something I suppose.

What happened in your second log to make the time trace non linear? Did you delete things from it? Honest question.

Edit- my phone must lag you edited your post i quoted. Referring to this one http://datazap.me/u/deritwik/log-wed...=4&zoom=17-104

[Julian2485]

Originally Posted by WedgePerformance

As much as people like to hype over 400 whp pump maps, the reality is usually 380 whp on 93 octane. You can squeeze more out of a custom map as long as the car is well modified, well maintained, and the fuel is really good.

Or, you can spike the octane and run my new Stage 2 FMIC 95oct/102ron MHD map. I'm releasing the new map for the EU guys that have 102 ron.

Considering my 100% stock turbo car with 128k miles on the clock has never had a walnut blast put down 394.07 whp and 425.86 wtq.... 400 whp shouldn't be an issue for those who just want to play on the weekend with a shot of Torco octane booster or a few gal of E85.

Bottom line, it's all about smooth linear, usable power...

This is a look at OPs log.. I'm not saying this is a 400 whp log, but it should be close.

Do you think you can get an xi to over 400awhp on 93 Oct if it has the proper mods fbo with kn drop in filter 6spd

[WedgePerformance]

Originally Posted by V8bait

What happened in your second log to make the time trace non linear? Did you delete things from it? Honest question.

Edit- my phone must lag you edited your post i quoted. Referring to this one

It's possible the phone or tablet is slow or an event caused it to pause, or maybe just a glitch in the log. Other than that there is no explanation. I didn't download the txt file to review it.

[WedgePerformance]

Originally Posted by Julian2485

Do you think you can get an xi to over 400awhp on 93 Oct if it has the proper mods fbo with kn drop in filter 6spd

I don't like guessing power until it's actually on the dyno. Hard to say without actually tuning the car.

[AaronZ34]

How come you target so little boost below 4,000rpm? Why not target 20 from idle up?