Re: Engine Chip

[Bob Sutterfield <Bob@xxxxxx>]

Phil Dupont asked:
 > Can someone tell me where the upgrade chips (dinan, conforti)
 > are installed?

My E30's engine computer lives above the trim panel that forms the roof of 
the glove box.  My upgrade required that I remove an integrated circuit 
chip from its socket, and replace it.

I understand that more recent engines (1996+?) can receive their software 
via the "Shark Injector", a hand-held unit that plugs into the same round 
connector under the hood as the diagnostic system and the service interval 
light reset tool.

 > Is it an easy plug and play set up? or an involved, let the mechanic
 > do it process?

If you've ever handled your computer's guts, you won't find a chip change 
to be very difficult.  It's roughly the same level of complexity as adding 
more memory to your PC.  Taking proper static precautions, this job should 
be about an hour.  If you're uncomfortable with the thought of adding a 
component to your desktop computer, ask the kid next door (the one who does 
your computer upgrades for you) to do this one for you too.  Offer to take 
him on the post-upgrade test drive, and he won't be able to resist :-)

If your car is new enough to use the Shark Injector, you won't touch any 
electronics and there's no disassembly required.  It's no more complex than 
checking the oil on your dipstick.

- --
Bob Sutterfield
'87 E30 325iS with Conforti chip
BMWCCA #169277 Rocky Mountain Chapter

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