Intercoolers: Air to Air vs Water to Air

[MNm3]

Everyone,

I've searched a little on the forums and I didn't turn up much (i.e. didn't go through the 800 pages that this searched turned up)

Curious as to what people's thoughts are on Air to Air intercoolers vs water to air intercoolers on E9x super charger kits.

I understand there are both types out there... I understand basic differences, but I'm more interested in real world experience.

I'm looking at an SC kit for my e90 and am not sure which way to go. The car will be tracked occasionally just to have some fun with it, but just for the occasional HPDE.

What are the pros and cons of each?

Thanks!

[MNm3]

Bump... Seriously? I'm surprised that no one has any input on this subject

[Chriskm3]

Anytime anyone started any supercharger inquiry it ends up in a battle between manufacturers. Do a search and see what you come up with.

[STi_traitor]

Google search, one hell of a drug!

http://www.enginebasics.com/Advanced...tercooler.html

[MNm3]

I've done the Internet searches and understand the basic differences. Was hoping for some real world experiences/ opinions from people on M3 post.

Yes... The super charger battles of opinions are annoying.

[MNm3]

Not asking the regular, which kit is better. I just want to start a general discussion on the different types of cooling systems.

[SflBimmer8484]

Long discussion with many opinions in here for you to check out.

http://honda-tech.com/showthread.php?t=2631682

Keep in mind some of these guys are using 5-8 gal water tanks with massive water pumps.

[Chriskm3]

Andrew.is your meth setup for cooling or additional fuel

[SflBimmer8484]

Originally Posted by Chriskm3

Andrew.is your meth setup for cooling or additional fuel

Well it does both but its mostly there for an added level of safety. You can never be to safe when running close to 600 whp. If you pulled it the afrs would still be in a safe area but we do not recommend doing this.

[Chriskm3]

Originally Posted by Andrew@ActiveAutowerke

Well it does both but its mostly there for an added level of safety. You can never be to safe when running close to 600 whp. If you pulled it the afrs would still be in a safe area but we do not recommend doing this.

My local runner said the same. It does more good than bad.

[MNm3]

As I understand it, an air to air system is better for sustained high speed track use, where the water to air may be better if you daily drive your car; traffic, stop and go, etc.

Also, the placement of the intercooler has to be much more specific for air to air??

[MNm3]

Originally Posted by MNm3

As I understand it, an air to air system is better for sustained high speed track use, where the water to air may be better if you daily drive your car; traffic, stop and go, etc.

Also, the placement of the intercooler has to be much more specific for air to air??

Getting conflicting info. I had heard air to air was best for track use...

Now this Honda thread says the opposite? Anyone care to confirm one or the other?

[SflBimmer8484]

Originally Posted by Chriskm3

My local runner said the same. It does more good than bad.

Of course I ran it in my 135 for over a year as a dependent additive. I was using a 800cc nozzle on a 3.0L compared to the 450cc nozzle we are using for the M3. The flow amount is extremely small in comparison to the size motor and hp its putting out.

The fact that it keeps you Iat's steady is just icing on the cake.