High mileage and FI mix? or no?

[slowguy]

I have been researching the forums for a while now and I think I've finally decided on a charger. I almost bought a new AA kit (for 3200 brand new) but maybe it's better to go with ASA since that's what everyone swears by.

As for my question; My car is a 2000 328i with about 80000 miles. First, is this too many miles to slap a charger on? The car was driven easy and almost all highway miles. I plan to never resell the car, I will drive it until it won't run any longer. BTW, the car will be still used as mostly a highway driver, the only time the charger will be put to use is on the weekends when I go out and tool around with my brother.

Second Question; If you think it's safe to charge my car should I consider mods to make the engine more capable, like different heads/gasket, lower the ratio?

Finally; is rennsport the only place to buy an asa kit? I live near chicago and would like someone very qualified to install it.

[Alan L.]

I have been researching the forums for a while now and I think I've finally decided on a charger. I almost bought a new AA kit (for 3200 brand new) but maybe it's better to go with ASA since that's what everyone swears by.

As for my question; My car is a 2000 328i with about 80000 miles. First, is this too many miles to slap a charger on? The car was driven easy and almost all highway miles. I plan to never resell the car, I will drive it until it won't run any longer. BTW, the car will be still used as mostly a highway driver, the only time the charger will be put to use is on the weekends when I go out and tool around with my brother.

Second Question; If you think it's safe to charge my car should I consider mods to make the engine more capable, like different heads/gasket, lower the ratio?

Finally; is rennsport the only place to buy an asa kit? I live near chicago and would like someone very qualified to install it.

ASA is the way to go. I can't recommend the kit enough. It’s amazing on my car. 80K isn't considered high at all for a Bmw. I heard these engines can last well over 150k as long as you do your routine maintenance. I've seen dynos of E46's with 100K miles and they motor still pulls as strong as new. I would perform a full tune up on the car during the SC install. New AC belt (ASA comes with a new accessory belt), water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, spark plugs, belt tensioner, tranny/motor/coolant fluid change and change the gas filter. I only have 42K on my car and I recently performed the same maintenance. Not because I needed to but only because I want my car to be in tip top shape with the new power. I would check out www.pelicanparts.com for all the parts mentioned. Alot cheaper than your average dealer. If you like working on your car like I do, won't cost you much for labor. Most is DIY.

As for lowering your compression etc.... It’s not needed unless you’re planning on building an all out HP monster with custom engine management (required). Not recommended for a day to day street car imo. Your 328 already has forged internals and is more than adaquate for such moderate boost.

Rennsport is the place for ASA if you want awesome customer service and the best price. I'm in NY and they've gone out of their way for me many times. :thumbup:

Alan

[slowguy]

Thanks for the info. That pelican site is awsome! I can't believe how much useful information there is on there. I wish I would have known about it earlier. BTW, I'm going to complete the maintenance you suggest simply because I do not know the maintenance habit of the previous owner....I bought my car used. Thanks again.