First weekend out, chassis dyno testing and then some track work.

The cockpit...

And...

Who said Bangle was an idiot?

The cockpit...

Dumb question #1, where can a DIY person get some of that phone cord type of wiring for a steering wheel mounted button. I just installed a quick release on my wheel and have a button kit (adapter for wheel and button) but no wiring. Always wondered this...

-Carlos.

It looks great! Good luck with them this year! Are you guys coming to Portland in July?

The E90 really does make a nice looking race car.

Mike

Beautious!

First weekend out, chassis dyno testing and then some track work.

dj <---------Test driver available :~) I'll be at Summit Point this weekend if you want to test this beast out.

Exposed cone filter? No heat shielding??

The paint scheme hides some of Chris Bunghole's idiocy. ;-)

Congrats! Have fun this weekend!!!

oh snappp!!

lookin good, i like the floor mounted pedal setup ;) i also think the e90 makes a better looking race car then road car

lookin good James... i wish my interior looked as clean :embarrasm

Cool, rides low like the e46 dtc cars.

Is the DBW unit still in place, I can't tell by the picture.

Also, where's the Rad? Is it low down or removed?

:buttrock

Sweet!
Good luck.
Joel

Dumb question #1, where can a DIY person get some of that phone cord type of wiring for a steering wheel mounted button. I just installed a quick release on my wheel and have a button kit (adapter for wheel and button) but no wiring. Always wondered this...

-Carlos.

Phone cord... The wiring is thin, but it is a workable solution, use heatshrink to support the wire. Way cheaper than the full custom solution.

Good luck with them this year! Are you guys coming to Portland in July?

Not on our schedule...

world-challenge.com

Exposed cone filter? No heat shielding??


Initial test setup. Full carbon intake in process. Unfortunately, being the first out means making everything ourselves...

Is the DBW unit still in place, I can't tell by the picture.

Look harder...you can tell.

Also, where's the Rad? Is it low down or removed?

We don't run one - saves weight...

Is the DBW unit still in place, I can't tell by the picture.

Look harder...you can tell.

Also, where's the Rad? Is it low down or removed?

We don't run one - saves weight...

Ah I see now, the black wire gave it away :) Definitely interested in how you like the floor mounts, i'm going that route as well, but no DBW throttle, i'm using the tilton throttle setup.

No rad, haha, fun. ;)

Are you using Chassis dyno (under varying loads i'm assuming) to verify the driveability from Sunbelts engine dyno tuning?

Also, for the guy that was interested in the spiral chord, I have a couple sources for that kind of wire. Its merely a spiralled, rubberized cable that can have 4 to 16+ wires in it. With a couple quick connectors, it comes in handy.

Are you using Chassis dyno (under varying loads i'm assuming) to verify the driveability from Sunbelts engine dyno tuning?

Really just to work on drivability tuning (completely new file). And make sure everything works properly. We are using an IPU box for all the electronics which means everything is automatic - engine and driveline cooling, etc. Lots to get right.

Yep, definitely a great idea. Plus, its always important to tune the car with full driveline load for tuning.

Did you guys see a need for tranny/diff cooling, or is it just to be safe for the most part?

Looks like AP floor mounts, they have that new "efficient" 3 pedal assembly, but its crazy $

Dumb question #1, where can a DIY person get some of that phone cord type of wiring for a steering wheel mounted button. I just installed a quick release on my wheel and have a button kit (adapter for wheel and button) but no wiring. Always wondered this...

-Carlos.

I might have left overs. How many circuits and what's the length you're looking for?

Good job, Bimmerworld!

Btw, just curious, what did you guys do to the valvetronic system? I know that that E90 320si actually came without that.

For reference that "spiral cable" is also called retractile coiled cord/cable. You can google it and pretty much get it any legnth you want, with whatever # of wires in side, and even whatever color cable.

This place has decent stuff: http://www.cablescience.com/electroniccoilcables.html

Keep things cool and they last longer. Probably not a requirement, but there is a huge difference in fluid appearance when you use a pump/fan active cooling system in a diff. Cheap insurance in the basic form for something you plunk $2k into. Trans doesn't have clutches that work so hard so it is not as much of an issue.

Valvetronic - not really racey stuff for the RPMs we are turning. Cool for the street. But we are required to lock it down for rules anyway.

New technology you can't see in the pictures...

-New 2.9 liter narrow angle V12 disguised to look like the inline 6, 790+ horsepower, 225+tq
-Agressive new weight savings program involving replacing the roll cage tubing with an elaborate system of load bearing slings and trusses made from bamboo and a special adhesive, very cutting edge JDM stuff.
-14 speed transmission designed by International Truck company.
-First race car ever to use a carbon fiber engine block, tranny housing, diff housing, and head.
-Entire body of car was done in fiberglass by the guy that does the speaker boxes on the Unique Whips show on Speed Channel.
-First race car to used recycled shoe strings for harnesses.

This car is cutting edge, weighs only 678# soaking wet and can do the Kessel run in 12 parsecs.

Keep things cool and they last longer. Probably not a requirement, but there is a huge difference in fluid appearance when you use a pump/fan active cooling system in a diff. Cheap insurance in the basic form for something you plunk $2k into. Trans doesn't have clutches that work so hard so it is not as much of an issue.



True.

I see the VTS SCCA has still has some outstanding issues, have you recieved any more recent specs? Seems they are going to be much more strict with body components and aero stuff this year.

A bunch of engine stuff like restrictor, intake port sizing, piston/rod,crankshaft, etc.

So far they have 3.91&4.33 final drives, however, do the general rules explicity say anywhere you have to use a clutch diff, or can you swap the type of differential?

Wieght at 2750 and dist at 50% ain't too bad though. Also interesting that you can remove 50lbs if you do not use dry sump.

I'm hoping Aimsport gets the OK for thier approval into SCCA WC, a couple of us really pushed Aaron and them to consider it, i'm happy they are making progress. For teams that are not in the top 10, it doesn't matter eitherway.

Not on our schedule...

world-challenge.com

:( Damn it. I was hoping it was some sort of misprint or something...

Good luck this season, I guess I will catch you guys on Speed!

Exposed cone filter? No heat shielding??


Bell Motorsports ran their Euro E36 motor that way, unless the real intake was removed for the Roundel photo shoot.

James, maybe if you run well without the radiator you can convince BMW to go to air cooled engines, you know, to try and recapture some of the Porsche old guard who can't stand the new water cooled models ... ;)

Valvetronic - not really racey stuff for the RPMs we are turning. Cool for the street. But we are required to lock it down for rules anyway.

Ah...I see. Reason I asked is because I am very intrigued with what they did to the 320si E90. It was released in conjunction to the WTCC Version. Engineers decided to remove the system for good. Just like what you said...it's not for racey stuff.


SteveJ: thanks for the cool link. The word "retracile" is too funny. Sounds like another word...I prefer "retractable". :stickoutt :D

Can i have one?

whoa lookin' great James:buttrock ...best of luck to you guys this season with those beauties!!! nice seeing you at VIR...keep up the great work bro, and for christ's sakes man could ya keep it OFF the GRASS and QUIT it with those cloulds of DIRT!!!!:D :stickoutt

SteveJ: thanks for the cool link. The word "retracile" is too funny. Sounds like another word...I prefer "retractable". :stickoutt :D

Yea I made a spelling mistake, I was running out the door before, and did not spell check. Retractile is just the category I have found it usually listed under, as its not very professional to describe it as "spiraly stretchy cord" lol :stickoutt

I actually have an 8 wire retractile cord somewhere I think, with pin connectors and all. I was going to make a radio/dash harness for a quick release, but I have no idea where that stuff is. I'll probably have to find it if i want to use it for the new project :)

Looks Awesome!!!

Is the whole team switching on the same weekend, or will you still run a mix of e46's?

Don't beat the field too badly... you don't want any rewards or adjustments ;)

GL!

Looks like all the money I spent at Bworld went towards something awesome and not toilet paper and notepads.

Looks like all the money I spent at Bworld went towards something awesome and not toilet paper and notepads.

Haha, I think some went to toilet paper ;) But thier drivers also help pay the car bills, as it is on most teams that sell seats.

I think the car will be competitive, but it has a ways to go in general for development, and I mean the car in general, not BW. Even BMW motorsport admitted it's going to take atleast some of this season to get thier car at the top of its game...so far they are doing well though, so its very promising for US E90 teams.

I think no doubt the car will be restricted after its first outting, since there's no previous rules/VTS for the car, it has to be established. Thats why a lot of the VTS has been left open in key areas, like restrictor %, etc.

Im not a big fan of the E90 but that car is very sexy!

yeah i would baby the car in qualifying and such so you dont get any weight or anything else added before the race. like the mustangs should of done a year or so ago at their daytona debut. Of course im not a professional racecar driver, so dont take my advice im on probation. Anyone wanna join my 13/13 club?

yeah i would baby the car in qualifying and such so you dont get any weight or anything else added before the race.

An SCCA Pro team Sandbagging a new car debuting...never! :rolleyes haha
Unfortunately its a team plan that many teams take in several series, oh well.

its also no fun. who wants to putt around the track all session? I know i wouldnt

WOW!!!!

Car looks awesome James, I can't wait to see it.

Nice dampers :buttrock

Adam

Car looks great guys. I hope i will see it in person some time soon.

My 14 year old came home from school Firday as I was heat gunning track worms and said he saw the Bimmerworld truck over by his school. Off I went and there it was, the E90. They have done a great job with it and yes it does have a radiator!

I declined any offers to allow me to take it for a spin!!:D

Chris

Exposed cone filter? No heat shielding??
The fully exposed kidney grills due to a custom low mounted radiator should hint at the future plans for the cars.

Cars look great James!

My 14 year old came home from school Firday as I was heat gunning track worms and said he saw the Bimmerworld truck over by his school. Off I went and there it was, the E90. They have done a great job with it and yes it does have a radiator!

I declined any offers to allow me to take it for a spin!!:D

Chris

Whats going on with your project car?

Whats going on with your project car?

One car looks not so good and the other looks pretty good. We will begin working hard in June. Chris

One car looks not so good and the other looks pretty good. We will begin working hard in June. Chris

Ah cool. I got a flood car coming in soon too :D

Nice.

Seem's like a crime - to put it on the track.
But your safe in your series - contact is rare at best.
Not sure you even need belts ;)

GOOD LUCK JAMES
She's going to look very nice in the winners circle.
The first E90!

E90's look sweet....

Nitin G. Shanbhag

Seem's like a crime - to put it on the track.
But your safe in your series - contact is rare at best.
Not sure you even need belts ;)

Have you been watching a different World Challenge series than I've been watching?

Have you been watching a different World Challenge series than I've been watching?
Kidding :lol

I think he was being a tad sarcastic Bry ;)

Any word back on the E90 dyno and track testing, hows it going?

Kidding :lol

Got ya. I thought maybe folks were starting to consider World Challenge a 13/13 series after the crash fest at the GrandAm Cup VIR race last weekend. ;)

Got ya. I thought maybe folks were starting to consider World Challenge a 13/13 series after the crash fest at the GrandAm Cup VIR race last weekend. ;)

You stole my words :D

E90 testing went great. The car ran flawlessly all day long and we got some really good data on how it responds to changes. Can't wait to get a real setup on the car to see how it will run then.

E90 testing went great. The car ran flawlessly all day long and we got some really good data on how it responds to changes. Can't wait to get a real setup on the car to see how it will run then.

Awesome!

When you say 'real setup' you mean setting it up off the data you now collected, or are there component changes in the suspension/aero that are still going on?

Got ya. I thought maybe folks were starting to consider World Challenge a 13/13 series after the crash fest at the GrandAm Cup VIR race last weekend. ;)Martinelli is still looking for that Caddie driver. I wanted to smack him myself. What a moron.

Looks like all the money I spent at Bworld went towards something awesome and not toilet paper and notepads.

LOL. If it wasn't for our customers, we couln't do any of this stuff. We work hard to give back both good service, and share a lot of the things we learn when we do work like this as payback.

No good action shots - hard to get with the camera I have.

Looks good James!

Can't wait to see how it does in a race!

Steve

LOL. If it wasn't for our customers, we couln't do any of this stuff. We work hard to give back both good service, and share a lot of the things we learn when we do work like this as payback.


So, I guess we all kind of own stock in the E90s? I'll take my dividends in seat time, thanks guys. :D

Cars look awesome. Looking forward to seeing them in person this season. Good luck!

So, I guess we all kind of own stock in the E90s? I'll take my dividends in seat time, thanks guys. :D

LOL - we can do that. You will just need to order about $100k worth of parts, then send them back with a note saying you would like a refund, but keep the profits - you have decided you would rather apply them toward seat time than parts... Can't have the cake and eat it too!

But seriously, thanks for everyone that does help out.

The cockpit...


Does anyone find the bend in the B-pillar down-tube funny? #1 for the angle from the halo, and #2 because of the bend...

... My uneducated-in-the-realm-of-rollbars brain tells me it would be better if the was a shorter-straight piece so you could run it at a greater angle from vertical. (45* angle being the most efficient load-angle)

edit: ps- the car looks beaut! I wish I had 1/50th of your budget! good luck...

Does anyone find the bend in the B-pillar down-tube funny? #1 for the angle from the halo, and #2 because of the bend...

That's not the B-pillar down tube...it's a triangulation tube between the B-pillar and the bar connecting the A/B pillars.

Why no front splitter? VTS doesn't allow it yet?

Martinelli is still looking for that Caddie driver. I wanted to smack him myself. What a moron.

No kidding!

Why no front splitter? VTS doesn't allow it yet?
Probably coming from the same carbon guy who is building the intake? Plus, in the early stages of testing, it can be nice to get the suspension dialed in on a base setting before adding aero aids on the front/rear.

Why no front splitter? VTS doesn't allow it yet?

Yeah, just not quite on yet. Will be totally in race trim this week.

Whats the status? How are they doing?

http://maxhawk.flagshiphosting.com/misc/IMG_0328.JPG
Dammit...the Audi club made him run with an extra 49lbs.

Is the front right tire cut down, or is he just locking it up?

Got any more pics?

Any word how the cars performed?

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g193/M3BimmerBilly/Audi%20Club%20%20RA%205-6-06/AUDIRA013.jpg


http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g193/M3BimmerBilly/Audi%20Club%20%20RA%205-6-06/AUDIRA014.jpg

So I guess they are only running one of the two for the next race?

Is the other E90 ready?

I'm diggin the side exhuast, did not notice it on the previous pics.

So I guess they are only running one of the two for the next race? Is the other E90 ready?

Seth said they may have two of each for Mid Ohio. Both cars looked very good on Saturday, and were running together.

The reason I said that was b/c the picture shows they are both numbered 28, so I was assuming one was not being run...but i guess they'll toss on a "1" for a driver to rent it :)

The reason I said that was b/c the picture shows they are both numbered 28, so I was assuming one was not being run...but i guess they'll toss on a "1" for a driver to rent it :)

Obviously Seth isn't going to change numbers midway through the season just because he's changing to a new car.

For all of the talk about BMW's getting bigger, it appears that the frontal area is smaller and the height is shorter on the E90. Is it the picture playing tricks on my eyes? In that part of the Road Atlanta paddock, the pavement is sloping heavily towards the camera from the bathroom building and trailer.

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g193/M3BimmerBilly/Audi%20Club%20%20RA%205-6-06/AUDIRA014.jpg

Bryan, I thought the exact same thing. It really does appear that the frontal area is considerably lower and more compact. The roof height also appears lower, but the window openings look to be the same. I'd love to see some of the wind tunnel numbers between the two cars.

Obviously Seth isn't going to change numbers midway through the season just because he's changing to a new car.

I know....thats why I said they'll add a number to the other car so someone can rent it. B/c I thought they were taking that e46 too, but they have two other e46's, so it could make sense that way too.

Bryan, I thought the exact same thing. It really does appear that the frontal area is considerably lower and more compact. The roof height also appears lower, but the window openings look to be the same. I'd love to see some of the wind tunnel numbers between the two cars.

Yeah, the windshield appears shorter on the E90, but I can't tell if it's because the roof is lower or because the hood comes higher, or a combination of the two. The hood definitely appears to be higher at the point it meets with windshielf because there's more sheet metal above the wheel opening on the fenders of the E90.

We keep our numbers and only 2 digits in most pro racing. That is Seth's new baby that we did the initial testing on.

Bryan, I thought the exact same thing. It really does appear that the frontal area is considerably lower and more compact. The roof height also appears lower, but the window openings look to be the same. I'd love to see some of the wind tunnel numbers between the two cars.

As soon as we complete all of our testing, we will publish all data publicly. :)

As soon as we complete all of our testing, we will publish all data publicly. :)
:lol :lol

Do you have a bridge you'd like to sell me as well? :D

:lol :lol

Do you have a bridge you'd like to sell me as well? :D

Nope but I do have some ocean front property to sell you in Montana.

Montana, eh? I'll have to keep that in mind when looking for my next piece of property.

How's the lumber biz Seth? From the looks of things, it must be great. 3+ years in a TC ain't cheap :)

James / Seth, I will not hold my breath on those numbers but some pics during build up would be really cool !!!!! ( those that dont give away any secrets :) )

Montana, eh? I'll have to keep that in mind when looking for my next piece of property.

How's the lumber biz Seth? From the looks of things, it must be great. 3+ years in a TC ain't cheap :)

Yeah I will do my best to hold that property just for you.

Biz is good but racing is about to get better. The E90 is going to be a great car to race. :alright

Yeah I will do my best to hold that property just for you.

Biz is good but racing is about to get better. The E90 is going to be a great car to race. :alright


Seth looks like your gonna have to get another drift going for a updated E90 sig:buttrock ...

the cars look GREAT man...best of luck to BW out there!:)

Yeah I will do my best to hold that property just for you.

Biz is good but racing is about to get better. The E90 is going to be a great car to race. :alright
Given where I'm seeing construction numbers going...

For all of the talk about BMW's getting bigger, it appears that the frontal area is smaller and the height is shorter on the E90.


They are way wider - hard to get past it in the trailer... I think it is a little shorter maybe.

Definitely better aero on the E90 than the e46.

Given where I'm seeing construction numbers going...


You mean through the roof. Just did a term paper on recent construction cost trends.

Cars look great though.