Chip or No Chip!!??

[park233]

Ok, this may be in the wrong topic but i think it has more to do with the engine..Ok, So i was wondering if installing a High Performance ECU Chip in my 90 325i would be a smart and productive improvement? what would be the ricks and are they actually risky? If all's good, is there a brand or something special i should look for or are the cheap ones on ebay good? Im really just looking for the most bang for my buck..

[blefevre]

A MarkD chip is the best. If it's worth your money, that will be for you to decide. I like mine. I would say the only "risk" is that you can rev the 7,000 RPM's which will put more stress on the engine if you redline it everywhere you go.

[park233]

lol... well im really considering it.. maybe i should fix the tac first lol

[Sagaris]

Most bang for your buck would likely be replacing old sensors such as the oxygen sensor, coolant temp sensor, ignition wires, cap, rotor, plugs, coil, adjusting the valves, fixing all vacuum leaks properly and the remainder of the list of maintenance and tune-up items.

THEN comes the chip.

"but I dont want to do all that stuff, I just want to go fast!!!"

You don't throw mods at an engine that isn't in tip-top shape for the same reason you don't give steroids to a 90 year old man.

The most common M20 ECU chip names are from MarkD, Turner Motorsports (JimC), and Dinan though there are others out there. There are literally 15 billion threads on the topic including dyno charts and in-depth reviews and I urge you search for them as you will get a better understanding of what to expect.

I feel it is a worthwhile mod, certainly won't blow you away but you do feel it nudge you back in the seat harder past 3k or so.

[park233]

Good advice, Im going to m guys house Sunday and hopefully i can hit those key maintenance things.. I just got the car like 2 weeks ago and LOVE it but it would be a good idea to do things the Right way.. Thanks

[MR 325]

I have to disagree with everyone who says the MarkD chip is best. I prefer the JC chip. He's a great guy and supports the community but I'm just being honest.