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Old Jan 10, 2010 | 06:03 PM
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AlienBlood
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BMW cam swaps aren't exactly an easy job. To begin with, as per BMW, a special tool ($1400+) is required to relieve the spring tension on the camshafts, or you run the risk of bending/breaking the cam. There is a workaround, but it requires some extra caution, and since you say you're "not exactly mechanically savy", I'd suggest waiting until everything else is done. Not only that, but a cam swap requires a different fuel/ignition strategy (i.e. software), as well.

If it's a 5-speed, you can pick up a differential from an Automatic car (3.91:1 gears instead of the 3.15:1) for MUCH better acceleration, at the expense of fuel economy on the highway. Coincidentally, I have one of these diffs in my shop right now that I can install for about $400.
You can also get more engine horsepower with a simple chip upgrade (DINAN advertises a 20+ HP increase) and performance exhaust. You will need to run 93 octane fuel with any performance chip.
Beyond that, you're looking at significant internal engine work to get any decent power increase.

Feel free to stop by my shop (in Riverview, info in my sig) if you're interested, and we can go through some options.
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Last edited by AlienBlood; Jan 10, 2010 at 06:15 PM.
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