[jreich]

A Helix intercooler was my first mod on my car. The things I noticed included a slight/moderate turbo lag increase which I'm assuming has to do with the increased volume of the intercooler and a slight drop in oil temps (something i wanted, but it may be due to the fact that its getting cooler outside). I have the newest version of the helix and had to trim some. I tried to jam it in there without trimming, but couldnt get it to fit (that's what she said ). I have a JB+ on the way so I'm hoping with a little boost increase, I can utilize this intercooler. Like others have stated, the aftermarket intercoolers are much heavier than the stock one. Make sure you have your clamps on nice and tight because I blew one off and threw a limp code the first time I tried to install it. The clamp closest to the MAF is a PITA. Helix really should design the intercooler with the stock tab clips so we can create a good seal on the radiator fan cowl. Just my $.02

[Zeph]

Originally Posted by Alan l.

Whats the dealer take on cars coming in with upgraded fmic? Anybody have issues?

I can see some having a problem, but it only helps the car as long as it is installed properly. I guess some might see it as a clue to further modding or something. I would have a huge argument if they complained about mine...

[E90MTL]

Originally Posted by jreich

A Helix intercooler was my first mod on my car. The things I noticed included a slight/moderate turbo lag increase which I'm assuming has to do with the increased volume of the intercooler and a slight drop in oil temps (something i wanted, but it may be due to the fact that its getting cooler outside). I have the newest version of the helix and had to trim some. I tried to jam it in there without trimming, but couldnt get it to fit (that's what she said ). I have a JB+ on the way so I'm hoping with a little boost increase, I can utilize this intercooler. Like others have stated, the aftermarket intercoolers are much heavier than the stock one. Make sure you have your clamps on nice and tight because I blew one off and threw a limp code the first time I tried to install it. The clamp closest to the MAF is a PITA. Helix really should design the intercooler with the stock tab clips so we can create a good seal on the radiator fan cowl. Just my $.02

All the comments in BOLD I can relate to.

I got the newest version of the Helix Stepped core.

I def. noticed the power up high.(no heat soak or power loss) on multiple pulls. It's also fkin heavy, I hope the little screws and shyte plastic threaded tabs hold theis heavy thing up with my Montreal Roads up here.

I am satisfied.. although a unit that requires no triming would be ideal.

[Terrance28]

Originally Posted by Alan l.

Whats the dealer take on cars coming in with upgraded fmic? Anybody have issues?

I go in with my intercooler all the time with no issues.

[uberschnell]

I had to swap back to stock when I took my car in for turbo related issues, before they would troubleshoot.

You can complain all day long, they have the upper hand.

[Blk07335i]

Originally Posted by Alpina_B3_Lux

I have the Code3 Performance and am very satisfied with it. I cannot directly compare it to Helix, but at least judging from the numbers I've read they should be more or less comparable performance-wise.

Alpina_B3_Lux

+1 for the Code 3. Nice unit with very little trimming required. Plus it comes with quality hardware (T-clamps) and a new aluminum boost tube.

[marcvtec]

My AA intercooler rocks I simply love it I do not care what thiese novices say,,, helix does not compare to AA in my opinion.

I have never heard of this company and or thier realiability.

[roamer]

I have the newer version of the Helix and it is very well designed and constructed. I consider the trimming minor and necessary to accomodate the width of the cooling area. IATs are consistently low and my oil temps have also remained below 230 F no matter how hard I charge.

As for the comparative qualities, the Helix was engineered better than the competitive projects (emphasis on face area and air flow vs. thickness or useless height behind a bumper) and constructed at a very high level. The price was reasonable as well.

[supradriver]

I have the Helix FMIC and unlike everyone else I did ZERO trimming. It was a tight fit, but it definitely fit. The power difference is noticeable the very first time you take the car out with the FMIC.

[Zeph]

I haven't noticed any increased lag or boost delay with the AMS FMIC. Actually it seems to spool slightly quicker and revving through the RPM's feels more smooth. Definitely noticeable. My favorite part is the top end, I shift at 6500 now instead of 6200 like with stock because there is more power there now.

I chose AMS because it is fairly light (about 10 pounds lighter than Helix for example) and good for I think almost 550 RWHP (which nobody is even close to) before it starts losing efficiency. It also seemed to have the best flowing end tanks... I think every other FMIC I saw had triangle/square end tanks that had corners and pockets which would impede flow and possibly cause some of this "boost delay" increase some have mentioned. AMS is more like a cone/tornado where the air freely flows out with zero impedence. I also liked the 3" piping which will come in handy for future upgrades

[Former_Boosted_IS]

Originally Posted by Zeph

I chose AMS because it is fairly light (about 10 pounds lighter than Helix for example) and good for I think almost 550 RWHP (which nobody is even close to) before it starts losing efficiency.

That is a serious misinformation there. I know for a fact that the Active Autowerke and STETT IC both flow enough to support 600 hp. TTBullet can give more info on the Helix, but that is a large core too and should easily support 600 hp. I am not saying that AMS doesn't have a good product, but just trying to correct misinformation.

[Zeph]

Pretty sure Eric said 550 horsepower, maybe it is crank not wheel. Either way tons more power than I have. Honestly I bought the AMS for the end tanks. Flow was my concern. I guess if I get too much power I could add Meth and still not have a huge heavy FMIC with boxes on the end sitting covered up by my bumper. Sorry btw if I mislead anyone, but I wasn't 100% sure so I said "I think almost 550 rwhp".

Cheers!

[marcvtec]

Originally Posted by roamer

I have the newer version of the Helix and it is very well designed and constructed. I consider the trimming minor and necessary to accomodate the width of the cooling area. IATs are consistently low and my oil temps have also remained below 230 F no matter how hard I charge.

As for the comparative qualities, the Helix was engineered better than the competitive projects (emphasis on face area and air flow vs. thickness or useless height behind a bumper) and constructed at a very high level. The price was reasonable as well.

Intercoolers have no effect on oil temps

[Zeph]

Originally Posted by marcvtec

Intercoolers have no effect on oil temps

mmm... I could see lowering IAT's by 50 degrees F could also help the engine run a tad cooler. That plus reducing turbo workload with a more efficient core could help with temps under the hood a little. I think "not going over 230" might have more to do with outside temps be cooler now.

[Kurfer]

Originally Posted by roozie2001

there is no cons to a FMIC. If i had to do it all over again it would be the first mod i get.

I'm just wondering...why? Do you race at a road course alot? I keep reading that there are no power gains associated with FMICs but people constantly say they are the best mod out there. If you're not racing, would you even notice an upgraded FMIC in your car?

I am looking at the Dinan FMIC and not sure I want to spend money on something I may not notice.

[Graystone]

Have u ever had the car out by yourself and gave it a good run and if feels like a beast.....you drive for another 45min. and try to find the same rush u felt the first good pull and feel like it just isnt there?
That is heatsoak and that is what the fmic will cure. Thats y everyone says its a great mod.
If you've never felt this then chances are you dont need one.

[turbologist]

Originally Posted by Zeph

Pretty sure Eric said 550 horsepower, maybe it is crank not wheel. Either way tons more power than I have. Honestly I bought the AMS for the end tanks. Flow was my concern. I guess if I get too much power I could add Meth and still not have a huge heavy FMIC with boxes on the end sitting covered up by my bumper. Sorry btw if I mislead anyone, but I wasn't 100% sure so I said "I think almost 550 rwhp".

Cheers!

From AMS' site:
Specifications

Intercooler core dimension: 6" tall, 20" wide and 6" thick
Good for up to 550whp
Comes with the Black "AMS" Painted Logo (optional)
Slight trimming of plastic bumper support required
Weighs 17.6 lbs.

[Zeph]

Originally Posted by turbologist

From AMS' site:
Specifications

Intercooler core dimension: 6" tall, 20" wide and 6" thick
Good for up to 550whp
Comes with the Black "AMS" Painted Logo (optional)
Slight trimming of plastic bumper support required
Weighs 17.6 lbs.

Ah thank you I think some people confuse it's size with RPI or some of the others that are basically "stock sized". This one has a decent size upgrade (more + to depth than height) and is a very efficient core. Not sure how they calculate or estimate those numbers anyway

[turbologist]

Originally Posted by Zeph

Ah thank you I think some people confuse it's size with RPI or some of the others that are basically "stock sized". This one has a decent size upgrade (more + to depth than height) and is a very efficient core. Not sure how they calculate or estimate those numbers anyway

Usually the provider of the core does their testing to calculate Pressure Drop, Thermal Efficiency, and Thermal Inertia which gives them a ballpark rating...