[ZM2]

I wanted to start a dedicated thread to get everyone’s input on replacing the turbo/IC/charge pipes. Does replacing them actually do anything, or is it just peace of mind?

If beneficial, which are the best on the market?

As an FYI, I’ll probably go with the Dinan larger turbo soon. Thanks for the input.

[Nezil]

There are three pipes that you can / could replace:

• Turbo Inlet Pipe
• Turbo outlet to intercooler pipe, often called 'Boost' Pipe
• Intercooler to throttle body pipe, often called 'Charge' Pipe.

The Charge pipe is a weak link from a reliability perspective, and it often cracks, leaking boost, even with stock mapping.

The Boost pipe is rarely changed, because the stock pipe is well made and flexible. There weren't many aftermarket options for this either

The turbo inlet pipe is said to offer benefits, enforcing for upgraded turbos, but some say even for the stock EWG turbo as well.

[F87_LCI]

I changed all three. Heard the charge pipe was prone to cracking although I never had an issue with my 335. Wanted to try out a tune this go around with the N55 so figured it couldn't hurt to change them and was doing the IC anyway...just thought of it as preventative maintenance. Not that expensive compared to other mods.

[Bee Pee]

Originally Posted by F87_LCI

I changed all three. Heard the charge pipe was prone to cracking although I never had an issue with my 335. Wanted to try out a tune this go around with the N55 so figured it couldn't hurt to change them and was doing the IC anyway...just thought of it as preventative maintenance. Not that expensive compared to other mods.

Ditto I changed all 3 when upgrading FMIC on my EWG M135i.

ER boost and charge pipes - larger ID and better flow

Pure hi Flo inlet pipe - larger bore removes restrictions of OE pipe.

Have the same hardware to install on my m2.

[Dav3]

Wasn't the charge pipe issue a decade old issue that got fixed?

[ZM2]

Has anyone out there actually had an issue with these pipes on an M2?

[ZM2]

Originally Posted by GreatWhiteM2

Yes mate, a couple of guys have had cracks appear near the end of the charge pipe (end closest to the engine). Easily replaced under warranty but I would upgrade (as I have).

Got it. Can I get some feedback on the charge pipe brands that people like out there?

Thanks.

[twin fed]

I just did the VRSF charge pipe when I changed my intercooler (CSF) and intake (CTS)

[twin fed]

Originally Posted by GreatWhiteM2

Same as me. Charge pipe was a perfect fit.

Yeah it went in pretty smooth. When I took it out for its first shake down run, I noticed the increase in power right away. It sounded fantastic with the CTS Intake. So a coupe hard throttle drops and I hear a loud pop and then no power and CEL. So I go home and put the car back up, I thought that is was going to be the intercooler pipe on the turbo side or the charge pipe coupler connection. I slid my hand down the charge pipe and it all felt good. So back under the car I go. Originally I got the clip to close on the turbo side, but never heard a good click like I did on the charge pipe side. I grabbed the hose and it was still attached but gave it a good yank and then it finally clicked. I thought OK good. So I cleared the code and started the car back up and it still ran pretty crappy. So I double checked the charge pipe coupler and sure enough it had separated. I had tightened down the T-Clamps originally but apparently no where near enough. So once I got all that buttoned up it ran fine and I have not had an issue since, but I am a little nervous of it happening again.

[ZM2]

Looks like there are charge pipes out there from VRSF, FTP, CTS, ER, AA, aFe, and others, and everyone has an opinion on each one...

Doesn’t sound like the boost pipe is worth doing.

What about options for the turbo inlet pipe? I’d do this at the same time as the Dinan turbo upgrade. Just FTP & Pure?

Thanks for the input, guys.

[mike@x-ph.com]

If you are tuning the car, Charge Pipe and intercooler are a must.
Turbo to Intercooler not charge pipe not needed unless you are upgrading your turbo