Over the last several months we have developed a new concept in intercooling for BMW applications, and decided to apply it to our R56 MINI. The Helix Stepped Intercooler design has a bigger frontal ambient face combined with thicker-than-stock core that seals off to the radiator fan/shroud. The cast end tanks have factory mounting points and factory charge pipe angles. Installation will involve removal of the R56's front air dam, then removal of stock intercooler. Next secure the new intercooler, and remount the front air dam. No cutting, drilling or other modifications needed. It's a clean fit. No ECU flags or error codes...just cooler intake air.
The core of the Helix Stepped Intercooler has increased fin density and will flow 250 horsepower with only a 0.5PSI pressure drop. That translates to cooler intake temperatures with a slight reduction in pressure.
Below are two graphs showing you the results from the data logging of our stock R56, then with only the Helix Stepped Intercooler installed. We think you will be impressed with the performance improvements!
Both graphs compare intake manifold temperatures between the stock intercooler (dang stock piece looks like a small toaster oven!) versus the Helix Stepped Intercooler (jumbo air-cooling surface area!). The first graph shows the intake air temperature changes as we performed a 3rd gear roll-on at wide-open-throttle. The second graph shows the intake air temperature changes as we performed a 4th gear roll-on at wide-open-throttle.
With this intercooler, under high-performance driving your R56 will be less prone to heat-soak, leading to increased performance and sustained power. The Helix Stepped Intercooler will be a perfect upgrade especially combined with a GIAC reflash.
Fits the following MINI models:
R55 2008-up Clubman S
R56 2007-up Hatchback Cooper S
R57 2009-up Convertible Cooper S
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