M54 DME options

[Roysneon]

So these are the options I see, just want a little confirmation on them and what I want to do.

1-Run it off the 413 DME and OBDI harness I already have with a VANOS controller to run the dual VANOS. I don't want to do this, but it's an option.

2-Run the stock DME with VANOS flashed out.

3-Run stock DME, I'm pretty sure I can get the whole EWS system from the E46, The E30 is stripped all to hell and it wouldn't be too hard to just change out the ignition and even swap the cluster if need be.

4-Run MS3 in place of the factory DME to run the Dual VANOS. This would be pricey but would give me the most tunability and would be best for if (when) I get silly and add some boost.

So what options am I missing? What would any of you guys with experience recommend?

[VinniE30]

After following hoveringguy's swap I think it's obvious the best choice is MS3.

[Roysneon]

That is an option I'm exploring, but in typical r3v fashion, I will be getting the DME with the engine, so a reflash would be the most economical way to get it running. If I'm going with the M54 I think I will be satisfied running it as is for a while so a stockish tune would be fine for a while.

[Elysian]

MS3X. I had all the stock ECU and harness for my M54 and I'm still going MS3X. hoveringuy is really paving the way here with his MS3X conversion.

[Roysneon]

That's the first hand experience I'm looking for, but not really the answer I want to hear haha. Thanks a lot for the input.

[hoveringuy]

So these are the options I see, just want a little confirmation on them and what I want to do.

1-Run it off the 413 DME and OBDI harness I already have with a VANOS controller to run the dual VANOS. I don't want to do this, but it's an option.

I ran this for over 2 years. I had OEM levels of reliability, the install was clean and I never had to worry about it. The car just ran great. 413 is bullet-proof and adapts quickly to a lot of different conditions.

The downside is that you'll need to get a VANOS circuit which I can provide, a tune which I can't, and you'll have limited ability to change things if you ever upgrade the motor (but it can be done)

2-Run the stock DME with VANOS flashed out.

You mean EWS flashed out? You would need most of the other OBD2 components but the motor would run great and it would be a sweet setup.

You'll know exactly which cylinder is misfiring. You'll know if your emissions stuff isn't working 100%.

You would also have some of the annoying quirks of a factory tune on the M54, including that the exhaust cam gets completely retarded during cold start for faster warm-up, makes it sound like a truck.

3-Run stock DME, I'm pretty sure I can get the whole EWS system from the E46, The E30 is stripped all to hell and it wouldn't be too hard to just change out the ignition and even swap the cluster if need be.

Pain in the ass, easier options.

4-Run MS3 in place of the factory DME to run the Dual VANOS. This would be pricey but would give me the most tunability and would be best for if (when) I get silly and add some boost.

If you build your own MS3 you can get the cost down quite a bit. I already have a tune for it so it would be ready to go. It would be easy to change the tune for any upgrades to the motor.

Latest version is full-sequential and easily handles the VANOS and DISA.

I've been driving on MS3 for the last few months and for the most part I've completely forgotten it's there... starts and drives great, gets good mileage and I even have TRACTION CONTROL!

No MAF=some more power.

Downside is that you'll still be investing at least $700 in the ECU and you'll end up becoming an expert on every nuance of engine control. You'll be building some interface boxes. You'll get geek cred for constantly connecting a laptop to your engine. Chicks dig it.

my MS3 blog is at http://www.m54megasquirt3.blogspot.com if anyone is interested in the gritty details.

[Roysneon]

Now THAT is exactly the answer I was looking for and more. If I get the DME and all the wiring harness/OBDII parts I'll just remove the EWS, get a basic performance tune and rock the engine as stock for now.

[328ijunkie]

Stock ECU w/ EWS flashed out.
Thread:

[nando]

installing EWS from an E46 isn't that hard. BUT - you have to get a matched key, EWS module, and DME. if you don't have the key/EWS already for your ECU, you may as well go with the EWS delete. you can't (easily) synch a new/used EWS module to a used DME.

if it's just your DD/street car - I'd go with the stock ECU, maybe flash out EWS 3. If you want to learn a LOT and it's not your everyday car, MS3 could be a good option. Just beware that you're in control of EVERYTHING. It can be overwhelming. You have all the power to make it run as smooth as butter, and the same power to make it run like crap.

I think there's a reason Steve is no longer using the 413... getting the tunes was too difficult/costly (had to be flashed remotely). am I right?

[Roysneon]

I'm thinking I'm going to be able to get the DME, EWS, etc. along with the engine. It's a track car that's far from finished, though. My plan was to turbo my M50tub25 but this complete, running M54 fell into my lap for super cheap.

I guess for a streetable track car there's no reason to go with the full EWS system. I will definitely grab if I can get it from the car, though.

I'm trying hard not to sound like the typical r3v broke ass, but I'd like to avoid spending $700 on an MS3 when I really don't see me making use of it, but don't want to spend money on a flash and tune then need the MS3 tunability.

I guess the old saying goes "It's better to have it and not need it, then to need it and not have it."

[Roysneon]

Stock ECU w/ EWS flashed out.
Thread:

I sent you a pm about this, not sure if you got it, I think this is the best solution for me right now, though. Enough power once I get the car on it's wheels to shake it down and get it to the track a few times, I can MegaSquirt it later if I want more power, or just save up for an M54. I've seen them sell online for less than $4K.

[nando]

you meant S54 right?

[Roysneon]

you meant S54 right?

Yeah, that's what I meant. I have it all clear in my head, I just get jumbled up when I'm trying to say or type it all out.

I can find M54's for faaar less than $4K lol. The one I'm picking up I'm getting for $700.

[nando]

Yeah I was gonna say.. lol

also, M3s are becoming cash cars. I'd expect S54 prices to continue dropping.

[Sagaris]

you meant S54 right?

Most likely, Theres an M54B30 with trans and 110k on Milwaukee (Thats WISCONSIN you crazy PNW'ers) Craigslist right now for $600


sort of want

Edit: I was beaten by the above 2 posts