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      05-08-2013, 09:18 PM   #1
M-Steep
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Drives: 2009 E93 M Sport
Join Date: May 2011
Location: Austin, TX

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PPK Stage 2 N54 Install/Review w/ Dynos

I had the factory Power Performance Kit (PPK) Stage 2 installed in my 2009 E93. The Stage 2 includes an auxilliary coolant radiator (installed in the driver's side front fender well), a larger radiator fan, and an ECU flash for a modest increase in torque/horsepower.

I know it's not a very popular tuning option, but I'll share my reasons. I wanted the increased OEM cooling capacity as a solid base for any future tuning; I wanted to preserve the original and CPO warranties I have; my power goals are modest for now, until I add an LSD and some beefed up suspension bits.

I am more than satisfied with the results. Throttle response feels much smoother and broader, with no hint of lag, suggesting the torque curve had been raised and broadened, greatly enhancing tractability between 3-5k rpm, which is where most of my driving happens. I would agree with comments made by others who had the PPK tune along the lines of "car should have come this way originally". Feels really good, in an organic sort of a way.

But impressions are obviously subjective, and I wanted to know quantitatively what the tune actually produced, so I had a baseline dyno session done before the install, and then went back to the same outfit for an "after" dyno run. Charts are posted below.

Results: the PPK tune delivered a better-than-advertised increase in torque, approx. 45 ft/lbs (!) across the band. Increase in HP was as advertised, approx. 20 HP across the band, although comparing peak to peak, HP was up only 16. The baseline runs showed a pronounced HP peak at about 5600, while the PPK runs show a higher, flatter HP curve there, but if you look across the band, the "before" and "after" HP curves track between 3k and 5k at a consistent 20 HP difference. I thought the numbers confirmed my driving impression - a nice increase in power right where I could feel it the most.

First chart below shows the two baseline runs. Second chart is the two-run session a few days after the PPK install. Third chart is the overlay of the "before" and "after".

Note about the dynos: after checking online recommendations in my area (I live in Austin, TX), I went to Henderson Performance in nearby New Braunfels. Corey Henderson is the owner/operator, great guy and really good to work with. He's a Chevy guy (lots of LS1 car porn in his shop), but graciously tolerated my little German machine. He personally operated my car on the dyno, and the consistency of the runs is a testament to his thorough, smooth approach. Felt like my car was in good hands. And at $60 for two pulls, cost was very reasonable.

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