[LiquidMercury]

Hey all,

First off I'm completely and utterly new to bimmers so be kind, lol. I've purchased a JB4, catless downpipe and an intercooler upgrade for my F30.

As I'm absolutely not a DIY kinda guy, I've opted to get these parts installed from a shop. The issue I'm finding with a few (only just started emailing the shops I've seen recommended in my area from other owners) are that they're more than happy to install the DP and IC, it's the JB4 they're consistently saying they won't install. I should add, these aren't Mom n' Pop shops, rather BMW specialized shops that do aftermarket installations...so this comes off as really odd to me.

Currently trying to find out wth they won't, but have others with JB4's installed found the same circumstance when reaching out to shops for an install? Is there something about the JB4 that scares the schitt outta installation shops?

Obviously this is addressed to others like myself (read: mechanical n00bs, lol) and not the smarter 'experts' that have installed them their selves.

Thanks in advance folks!

[Mouse]

As far as why they won't....simply just ask them. The JB4 is sold as a "Not for street use" product so maybe that's the reason. But you also say they WILL install a DP. (However you didn't mention if it's catted or not, so not really sure what the issue is.) Also, are you asking them to install a used JB4 or new? Maybe they're afraid of installing a used one and then getting blamed if something bad happened or it won't work. Again, asking them for a straight answer should solve that.

As far as the install, if you can wire an aftermarket radio, your qualified to install a JB4. It's super simple, just remember to take your time if you are uneasy with this kind of job.

Or just simply find a shop/enthusiast that will install it for you. Just give the area you're in and maybe someone can point you in the right direction.

Good luck.

[LiquidMercury]

Originally Posted by Mouse

As far as why they won't....simply just ask them. The JB4 is sold as a "Not for street use" product so maybe that's the reason. But you also say they WILL install a DP. (However you didn't mention if it's catted or not, so not really sure what the issue is.) Also, are you asking them to install a used JB4 or new? Maybe they're afraid of installing a used one and then getting blamed if something bad happened or it won't work. Again, asking them for a straight answer should solve that.

As far as the install, if you can wire an aftermarket radio, your qualified to install a JB4. It's super simple, just remember to take your time if you are uneasy with this kind of job.

Or just simply find a shop/enthusiast that will install it for you. Just give the area you're in and maybe someone can point you in the right direction.

Good luck.

Sorry, it's catless. This was the first response back, "There are too many issues with the JB4 product so we do not sell or install them. If your vehicle is equipped with this when it comes in for service, there are additional charges applied to disconnect the JB4 to perform any type of diagnostics or even reset the service reminder(s). These interfere so much that we cannot communicate with the vehicle, even to perform simple resets."

Interesting.

1. It can be totally disabled from the dash before going in for servicing and 2. They sell their own tunes; so I've pretty much figured out why that place doesn't do JB4 installations. Still, money paid for installations is still money I'd have thought, but guess not. Lol, oh well.

[mbanks21]

If your car is auto the JB4 should take maybe half an hour and it's pretty idiot proof. 3-4 connections depending on PWG/EWG/FF/etc.

[LiquidMercury]

It's auto, and I may try the install myself (JB4). God help me, lmao.

[Mouse]

Shouldn't be a big deal....if you have any issues, just contact Terry at BMS or just ask us here. You can PM me if you'd like.

[LiquidMercury]

Will do, thanks! Still find it totally weird I'm not able to find any place that'll hook it up, so I'll prolly end up giving it a go myself.

[LiquidMercury]

Side question for folks with piggybacks installed: Is a charge pipe upgrade in order, or can I run my F30 fine with it being stock. Of course the dealers recommend one as it's about sales, but is it really a necessity or too much of a risk?

As already mentioned I'm swapping out the stock intercooler and putting in a catless downpipe so at this stage is it highly recommended I swap out the charge pipe too? I'm leaning towards just getting one to be safe, but damn, lol, the $$$ quickly adds up!

[jgoens]

Originally Posted by mbanks21

If your car is auto the JB4 should take maybe half an hour and it's pretty idiot proof. 3-4 connections depending on PWG/EWG/FF/etc.

If you are wiring to OBD and really take your time it will take you at least an hour especially if things under the hood are foreign to you. If there is anyone in your area try to reach out. Make sure you disconnect the battery first thing and leave the trunk open. That's my most important advice.

[Mouse]

Originally Posted by LiquidMercury

Side question for folks with piggybacks installed: Is a charge pipe upgrade in order, or can I run my F30 fine with it being stock. Of course the dealers recommend one as it's about sales, but is it really a necessity or too much of a risk?

As already mentioned I'm swapping out the stock intercooler and putting in a catless downpipe so at this stage is it highly recommended I swap out the charge pipe too? I'm leaning towards just getting one to be safe, but damn, lol, the $$$ quickly adds up!

Absolutely. You'll get people telling you that they've had the stock one on for 2+ years with no problems, but why would you chance having the plastic one break apart and even worse sucking up a piece of plastic in the process? It's very good peace of mind.

YMMV, but my plastic charge pipe exploded on the second pull of map 1. LOL I'm sure it would've gone soon but what are the odds right?

[jgoens]

Originally Posted by Mouse

Absolutely. You'll get people telling you that they've had the stock one on for 2+ years with no problems, but why would you chance having the plastic one break apart and even worse sucking up a piece of plastic in the process? It's very good peace of mind.

YMMV, but my plastic charge pipe exploded on the second pull of map 1. LOL I'm sure it would've gone soon but what are the odds right?

Definitely get a cp...once you increase boost you dramatically increase the stress on an already weak part. Check the n55 section for the stories of stock ones breaking. Gives peace of mind.

[LiquidMercury]

Thanks, I'll be putting an order in today for one. Cheers n' beers to all that's been helpful btw.

[JamRWS6]

CP depends on what vehicle you have. I have not seen a single CP failure on a B58. Seems to be common on N55s.

[LiquidMercury]

Mine's an F30 N20, but after reading other threads, it can't hurt to upgrade it so I've already placed the order today, thanks!

[badbread]

FWIW I have a DIY up on my website detailing the JB4 install, it's really easy.

http://*************/burgermotorsport...lex-fuel-help/

[uncleruckus]

Hey OP... i see you're in Vancouver, have you checked with Performance One in Richmond if they are willing to do the JB4 install ?

[LiquidMercury]

Yup tried them and CG Motorsports. No one will install the JB4 because they claim too many bugs with it after it's installed.

[AMG KLR]

Install the JB4 yourself and get them to do it. However get a chargepipe immediately, i got one from X-PH with 5% off coupon

[LiquidMercury]

Originally Posted by AMG KLR

Install the JB4 yourself and get them to do it. However get a chargepipe immediately, i got one from X-PH with 5% off coupon

CP already ordered.

[jebs2k]

i'm in van, could help you with jb4 install if still needed.

[LiquidMercury]

Originally Posted by jebs2k

i'm in van, could help you with jb4 install if still needed.

Posted on your profile wall as I don't think you have PM's enabled?

[jebs2k]

Originally Posted by LiquidMercury

Posted on your profile wall as I don't think you have PM's enabled?

pm'd