Another ESS VT2-575 DYI Install

[HP Man]

I spent this weekend installing ESS' VT2-575 kit into my car. For any of you debating whether or not to go forced induction, I have a few random observations and opinions:

1. The ESS kit is extremely well designed and manufactured to fit with ease into the E9x's tight engine bay;

2. The install, while a bit time consuming, is very straight-forward and simple. I did it myself without any assistance (other than my 2 year old boy insisting that he help me) in approximately 15 hours and I consider myself moderately mechanically inclined;

3. I really like IND's custom finishes on the manifold. However, I like to do things myself, so I decided to tackle the job of finishing the cast aluminum manifold myself. While I achieved decent results, I wish I would have simply gotten IND to do it. For anybody else planning to finish the manifold themselves, don't do it -- it will take you more time than it is worth;

4. Roman was great at answering the few questions I had and accommodating my schedule in getting my ECU programmed;

5. The power is extremely smooth and linear -- almost electric engine like;

6. The intercooler does its job. While I do not have actual data, the manifold after the intercooler is considerably cooler to the touch than the blower and the portions of the manifold before the intercooler; and

7. The smile on my face when I mash the gas pedal is priceless!

Here are a few pictures.

[CSMRX7]

Welcome to the club. Nice to see another ESS kit in Canada!

[KiokenM3]

congrats

[lambobambo]

any chance we can hear/see some video?
Did you upgrade to a BBK also?

[mkPOTO]

very nice

[Johnny Lin]

wow, awesome.

[Ca$hOnly]

Looks like you did a great job with the finish of the manifold, nice job!

[HP Man]

Thanks everyone.

CSMRX7, how do you like your kit? I saw your thread a while back regarding your installation. Roman told me that you and I are the only two in Canada running the ESS kit.

tomvcarter, a BBK is next on my list of upgrades. Sorry, but I don't have any video, however, the slight whine of the SC is simply intoxicating.

Without DSC on, I'm going to burn up rear tires very quickly!

[CSMRX7]

I love my kit. When I am just cruising the car feels stock, then get into it an its a whole other ball game. On the road course I am holding my own with GTRs and 911 turbos now!

[King Tut]

Manifold looks good. I love seeing guys installing things themselves. What made you pick blue for the manifold?

[mikewads]

Wow! Great job on the manifold. I love the blue.

[Nate@IND]

Manifold looks amazing nice work Enjoy the new SC.

[M3EST]

My ecu is being sent to Ess.The VT2 kit is under intallation process.I hope this week the monster will start.Congrats to your custom color.

[LIKEWATER]

Looks Good !

[A-Man]

manifold looks great.. congrats..

[HP Man]

Thanks for the kind words. I used to road race motorcyles and my race bikes were painted this metallic blue -- in the sunshine the metallic elements of the paint provide a very rich colour and effect (similar to the atlantis blue BMW uses). I have really fond memories of my racing days, so when I decided to finish the manifold, I knew that I had to use this metallic blue. Plus, I think it provides a nice contrast to the white and black of the exterior.

[Prit@Euro Autowerx]

Great to see a couple of ESS kits running in Canada

[gixxer_kidd]

Originally Posted by HP Man

a BBK is next on my list of upgrades.

I think you did a great job on the paint. You should get the same color BBk. Congrats on the SC!

[M3Alpine]

man how i wish one of those boxes could just mysteriously end up outside my house ! good luck with it

[Prit@Euro Autowerx]

We are running a sale on Brembo BBK's and can offer custom paint jobs, PM me if your interested

[05SCM33]

Nicely done OP!

[SIIK2NR]

DIY....... the only way to go... big Thumbsup!