Improving Airflow to Engine Bay

[LondonTom]

Hi Chaps,

I've recently converted my car to run an M52 and have completed two track days so far. The engine temperature does creep up towards the end of each session (circa 15-20 minutes), so have been keen to see how best to get more air flowing into the engine bay.

Any tips on what has worked for others would be appreciated.

Thanks

Tom

[JungleGus]

Maybe try a lower temp thermostat? I have a similar issue but not keen to cut holes anywhere! DanThe probably has some good advice...

[Demlotcrew]

Additional air flow is not such a good idea. You need better cooling capacity, If not already, fit an oil cooler.

[LondonTom]

Cheers Chaps - Gus I'm planning to do that - current is 88 degrees, however was from a motor factors so will try a genuine one this time.

Demlot, aside from an oil cooler, any recommendations on a radiator - I'm running an OE 328i unit with an electric fan.

Thanks.

[Motorhole]

Having similar issues, though last couple of trackdays it hasn't been too bad. I'm using a larger S50 aluminium rad but I don't think it's particularly well sealed against the front panel. Closing up all those gaps would help. As Demlot says though, oil cooler is a good move. I'm putting one on the M52B30 I'm putting together and will address all the other various cooling inefficiences when it comes time to drop that in

[rix313]

One question I will ask is are you still running the front radiator cowling? An efficient water system will keep oil temps in check too. Refitting mine to my race car along with a larger core aluminium radiator brought oil temps down by almost 10degreesC in race conditions. You'd be amazed what difference properly channeled air will make.

On the upside if you do decide to fit an oil cooler Mocal not produce a lid for the filter housing which makes things much easier.

[e30cbe]

Hi Chaps,

I've recently converted my car to run an M52 and have completed two track days so far. The engine temperature does creep up towards the end of each session (circa 15-20 minutes), so have been keen to see how best to get more air flowing into the engine bay.

Any tips on what has worked for others would be appreciated.

Thanks

Tom

Bonnet vents will help if you dont mind changing the aesthetics . I have noticed that the m30 conversion we did filled up the engine bay so much that the heat had nowhere to go.

[SlipnGripRoss]

I have M52 swap with no cooling issues. I run M3 ally rad and electric fan.

Unless you have a high spec car then 15-20mins should be your max on track sessions. Bearing in mind that most sprint races are only 10 laps or so anyway.


If you are running a cone filter it could be useful lto remove a light on track to get cold air into the induction itself but sound like you just need a better Radiator.