Are You Certain You Have TCI? (archive)

In the US, Motronic was the only ignition used for several years prior to the build date of your car. I would be surprised to learn of such an ancient technology in your car. My Bentley's manual makes no mention of this that I can recall.

my 528i SE has transistorized coil ignition (TCI)were timing is controlled by the mechanical distributor i.e. vacuum advance/retard system.
I've been told that I'll notice a big difference in performance if I convert it to motronic (which uses electronically mapped ignition!), the advantage being that a timing curve can be custom made to suit the vehicle, not possible with a distributor as it's timing method works strictly on a linear plane alone.
Of course I REALISE that the curve would have to be tailored to performance not economy or emissions control.
I'm thinking of installing a �575 + VAT engine management system that is not unlike motronic. It is not a superchip to replace a motronic chip though! Oh no! It is no less than the entire system complete with wiring looms, ECU, (DME), sensors etc.etc. This would totally replace my current TCI+EFI system with a much more up-to-date '3D' system. I think it has FLASH EPROM memory and can be completely re-programmed as many times as you like; it isn't ROM, oh no! You don't need to ever buy another chip because you can just re-program the one you have already!!
Please have a look at this site (gems) and let me know what you think???

Many many thanks for all your time and input (in advance) 'no pun intended'...
Paul S.
88 528i SE Auto E28/M30 (3.45.1 diff/2788cc).

Follow Ups:

Re: Are You Certain You Have TCI? paul staples 08:19 1/08/2001 (0)

[ Follow Ups ] [ 5-series (E28) Message Board ] [ Msg. Board FAQ ]

Questions, comments, or problems, please visit the Roadfly help desk.