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In Reply to: Re: Expectations if you purchase the ESS blower... posted by trinity on October 23, 2000 at 13:30:38:
I sent the software out there two weeks ago when the car was apart. I had the Dinan Stage 2 software installed for my Cold Air Intake. The software Garrett was to install expected the stock BMW software. He sent it back unchanged. I had the ECM re-flashed back to stock, but have not had time to send it back to Garrett.
The Dinan software advances the spark and lean's out the mixture in high RPM's. The software for the blower does the opposite. It retards the timing some and gives you more power in the lower RPM's.
I plan to send the ECM out again this week. I will let you know what differences I notice with the software on it.
David
I also have been tempted to look at the ESS SC for a 540iA. When I talked with them they were very pleasant and knowledgable but as you mentioned did not have a strong presence in the US. They told me that I would have to remove my ECM and send it to California to be re-programmed. ESS has a subcontractor out there who does there programming work. You didn't mention that you had to do this.
I am still interested by them but I am tempted to spend the extra bucks with Dinan for a little more security. ESS should have a good package based on their European experience. I and I believe others would be very interested in hearing your experiences with ESS both before and after installation.
Thanks.
I installed it on my 98 540 Sport 6 speed. I agree that their organization and follow-up were poor. It took me many emails and phone calls to get all of my order. Once I had all the parts, their support was good. They have very knowledgable staff and want to help which is good because the instruction sheet was very light.
Would I purchase from them again? If I had the extra money I would pay more and get the Dinan for a smoother purchase and install. But for 5k, you can't beat this performance! I would only purchase it again because I have a mechanic who feels comfortable modifying/drilling parts to make them fit well. If you do not have that type of mechanic, this kit in its current form is NOT for you.
If you purchase, expect it to take 3 - 4 weeks to receive all of the parts. Expect to have to modify some of the parts to fit perfectly - the kits are developed for the European cars. They do not have the differences documented. It took about 20 hours to install it.
Answer to previous complaint about a/c hose. Instead of bending the a/c hose, I drilled a hole through the blower bracket. It was less riskier than taking a chance of cracking the metal tube.
David
i got one too... is yours a 528i?