Intercooler advice
 

I'm looking to run an intercooler on my M45 set up. I was recommended a 12x12x3 core size intercooler. What is the overall size of that intercooler?

Also, What size inlet and outlet should I get?

Thanks!

One with a turbo on the hot side.

Good question.

It's 12x12x3. ;)

That's in inches.

Dann

Well... that makes sense. I'm such a noob at this stuff.

the overall size will be much longer... probably 18x12x3 if 12x12x3 is the core size.

That is what I was looking for, thanks Brain. I was finding many 18x12x3 but couldn't find a 12x12x3.:party:

Did you end up doing this? Was it worth it?

I did actually. I ended up using a mazdaspeed intercooler 8x8x2 (its super cute) with 2 inch piping.

HUGE difference in power. I was seeing intake temps of 190-210 on hot days. Obviously, I retarded all the timing. After the install I went from 170 degree temps (at night) to 76 degrees (ambient at night)

Like I said, very worth it. You lose a tiny bit of boost and gain a bit of lag. But what would you want more? A half pound of boost or a better spark map with a huge decrease in intake temps?

did you end up with any idle issues? Are you on stock electronics? I'm considering adding IC but have heard bad stories about idle. I've got it perfect right now and don't want to screw it up.

I can't comment on my idle at the moment. It is around 1500. But my VTPS is broken as of right now. I had the idle perfect before the intercooler (without a functioning TPS), but after the intercooler it gets crazy. Hoping to fix that issue this week.

I run a MS3x

I'm actually thinking about picking up a clubman intercooler and putting it in place of the stock crossover tube:

2011 Mini Cooper Clubman Turbo Intercooler | eBay

Then cutting the hood and sealing it to the intercooler. Should be very little increase in throttled volume, and it doesn't block the radiator.

Wouldn't it be too hot in the engine bay?

probably. I'd want to bring it outside air from a hood scoop or something similar to how the WRX topmounts are ducted.

why would you intentionally use a flawed design? and this on one of the easiest cars to route a fmic on.....this is seriously blowing my mind right now with how retarded it is

For the reasons listed above. Prevent blocking radiator, and reduce volume as much as possible.

FMIC is ridiculously easy to route, yes. I had one on my previous turbo setup and it was a breeze.

what's wrong with blocking radiator? I've yet to see a properly ducted car with a proper cooling system have problems.
there are also different kinds of intercoolers some of which are designed for maximum airflow inside the core and some designed for maximum airflow through the core.
you'd rather hack up your hood, likely have to use hood pins, have a very inefficient intercooler sit right behind 200* of heat with fans blowing this heat in its direction? Okay

So you want to make it similar to an intercooler setup that also sucks copious amounts of ballsack?

Guys, stop it. I don't want to have to explain to my coworker why I'm quietly crying into my palms.

Well, the way you say it makes me want one too.:giggle:

Oh baby I bet you like that top mount.


I'm more of a power bottom, myself.