Want to get a bigger intercooler for my r56 but I don't really want to spend 700+ dollars on one if the one on eBay is just as good, is anyone running the eBay intercooler and if so how is it?

 

I bought this one: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Huge-FRONT-mount-intercooler-FOR-BMW-MINI-cooper-S-R56-R57-New-/201389967217?hash=item2ee3c70771&vxp=mtr
It's identical (at least aesthetically) to the Forge one. I'm pretty sure the deal with them is it's sold direct from the factory Forge gets them from and they used to be sold on Aliexpress. Only difference is that it doesn't come with hose clamps or installation guides.

My car hasn't blown up yet and I'm running a tune. I haven't dyno'd it or A/B'd the new intercooler vs the stock one, admittedly. But the build quality was pretty good and it felt like a solid piece of kit.

 

First, bigger is not necessarily better. If the core density is poor and the end tank flow is poor, you're better off sticking with stock. If you really want to improve performance, and not just have a shiny thing in the front of your car, you're going to have to spend a few bucks, albeit not $700 plus.

 

yeah I guess I'll wait and get the real deal thanks for the reply

 

you can have mine for $120 shipped.


Although you should get the new Helix intercooler. It's pretty sweet.

 

I just installed a used eBay "cheapie" intercooler tonight, after having a repair for a hole done properly, as well as a thorough cleanout and pressure testing. The installation was just as outlined above. I did remove the front wheels, just to make access easier. I did this on jackstands in my garage at home, so the use of a lift is not mandated. I must say that I did feel a bit more "pull" on acceleration during my first test-drive, actually a LOT more, but it was cooler tonight, so we will see how it goes when the weather is warmer. I am not monitoring temps or pressures. I did have to use a couple of washers for spacing on the mount points, as the fit was not "perfect". I was a bit surprised at the accumulation of sludge in the original intercooler, and the hoses leading to it. About to go on a 2500 mile road-trip through the US Southwest next week, so we will see how it goes. I saved up money for the trip, so I suppose I could save up some for a better intercooler in the future. The Helix looks like a good choice, and my goal will be to acquire and install a Helix unit.