Superharging E39 (2003 530i)

[PettegrewM]

I have looked around the forums and searched, but have not seen anything directly related to discussions around supercharging a relatively late model 530i. Can the I6 handle the pressures and heat of a VFE or other supercharger (VF Engineering says yes, but I am interested in any vehicle owner who has done this, and has experience with the mod). Any help is appreciated.

[fastshivy]

I am a big fan of superchargers/turbos etc. but do not have much experience with BMW. The I6 uses a forged crank and forged pistons...all of which should handle a supercharger without much problem. What tranny do you have? This may be a weak point. If you keep the boost levels around 6 to 8PSIs and use their computer program to retard spark ....That would keep things on the mild side and should not cause problems. One of the biggest issues to deal with is detonation, but with low boost levels it should not be a problem. I am eventually going to turbocharge my 540, but am not sure if the automatic tranny will handle the torque. Good question...I would get on chevy hi performance site or google turbos to see what comes up. You will then have a better idea of what to look for and expect. I am no expert, but think you would be happy with your decision, just don't get too radical on the go fast parts!!

[CosmosBlack]

How much is the whole project gonna cost you?
I personally would sell the 530i, and use the money for the mod to upgrade to a M5.
You get better power and performance overall,
AND peace of mind that everything is working the way it's designed to.

[fastshivy]

I must apologize as the 530 uses cast pistons, not forged as stated above.The info I received was wrong and the record needs to be set straight. I am not sure about the crank either. The 530 should still handle the low pressure scenario fine.The internals on these engines are well built. Stock Chevrolet truck LS engines use cast pistons and cast cranks and live for a long time under Vortech superchargers at low boost.There are many stories of vehicles going 100K-150K miles with just average problems.All mods have some risk.

You really hit my hot button!!! I just don't think the automatic tranny in the 540 will take the torque.I do too much city driving to look at a 6spd. Anyone know if the automatics can be beefed up?

A supercharged 530 would offer a better ride than an M5, just seems like the 530 supercharged would make a nice combo.... depends on your goals. An M5 would be awesome if you have the bucks......but then you would want to supercharge that too!

Good luck on your research.....you gotta let us know if you decide to do it!

[BMWERKEN]

It sure can, we have several 3.0 M54 engines supercharged out there that operate beautifully. If you are interested in the VF kit, make sure to contact us