My custom DIY a2a intercooler (pics)

epix

Typhoon
Decided to go with an a2a setup during my engine build so I went with something as cheap yet functional as I could..

Ended up using an ebay IC core, a 3" pipe kit, several couplers and 90* silicone hoses and plenty of t-bolts.

In all I have near $500 or less into the entire thing

let me know what ya think :)

beginning:
PICT0002_003.jpg

piping:
PICT0002_004.jpg


PICT0005_004.jpg


PICT0009-1.jpg


PICT0005-1.jpg

In place
PICT0013-1.jpg


PICT0003-1.jpg

Finished!
PICT0019-1.jpg


Under the blade of death I mounted a transmission cooler with SPAL electric fan.

update on build info:
I used this kit and didn't use all of the pipes so you could get something similar:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/e...em=230021640976

Piping;ended up using:
2x Straight
1x 75*
2x 90* pipe
some cutting was required, but all was just done on a bandsaw, nothing too hard.

Silicone:
2x 90* 3"
4x Coupler 3"
1x 4"-3" reducer (TB to IC pipe)
1x 3"-2" reducer (Turbo to IC pipe)

Clamps: ALL T-Bolt
1x 4"
1x 2"
12x 3" (couple more if you want them for the air intake on the turbo)
 
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live1053rulz

Nor Cal SyTy
Re: My custom DIY a2a intercooler (pics)

Ooooh, purdy. You didn't have to do all that much cutting of that front support piece, did you?
 

Black Knight

I Glow Therefore I am
Re: My custom DIY a2a intercooler (pics)

live1053rulz said:
You didn't have to do all that much cutting of that front support piece, did you?

No i'm sure he thought it would be fun to just cut up the core support for the hell of it :rotf:
 

live1053rulz

Nor Cal SyTy
Re: My custom DIY a2a intercooler (pics)

Haha, I just find it interesting that he didn't have to cut all that much. When looking at Brandens, it kinda seems like more would need to be taken out. but I guess there is a substantial amount taken out.
 

Typhoonracer

Old Guard GURU
Re: My custom DIY a2a intercooler (pics)

That thing is twice the size of the stock replacing A2A..

Give us some links and part # and stuff!!!!!
 

Deanzsyclone

New member
Re: My custom DIY a2a intercooler (pics)

also from the IC core to the plenum I would probably wrap that pipe to reduce any heat soak.
 

QUICK STORM

B.A.M.F. BMW Tech
Re: My custom DIY a2a intercooler (pics)

i can tell you epix's project inspired me to do this to mine. i bought a intercooler with amazing numbers. they record a 100* temp drop accross core. you will see my project pics up very soon.
 

Deanzsyclone

New member
Re: My custom DIY a2a intercooler (pics)

QUICK STORM said:
i can tell you epix's project inspired me to do this to mine. i bought a intercooler with amazing numbers. they record a 100* temp drop accross core. you will see my project pics up very soon.

uhm... are you saying a 100 deg drop? being that I run at or around 100 degrees I'm thinking below freezing may be a bit....uhhm unrealistic? did you mean % or something else?
 

It's just a six

Super Member
Re: My custom DIY a2a intercooler (pics)

Looks nice :tup:
Did the tubes have rolled beaded lips on them or are they straight tubes?
Definately get some type of wrap on the pipes as not to pick up extra heat.Like what Dean said.
But looks sharp!
 

Black Knight

I Glow Therefore I am
Re: My custom DIY a2a intercooler (pics)

deanzsyclone said:
uhm... are you saying a 100 deg drop? being that I run at or around 100 degrees I'm thinking below freezing may be a bit....uhhm unrealistic? did you mean % or something else?

I think, and I could be way off here, he means they say 100* drop in temp from the air entering the I/C to the air exiting. So say air going in is 175*, then air coming out would be 75* ish. Which I could see, but then again I wonder if Dr. Pepper boy there even knows what he's talking about :lol:
 

gjp

another post whore
Re: My custom DIY a2a intercooler (pics)

The turbo heats up the air. Not sure on the temp drop on my A2A (rpm) but the pipe from the turbo is hot and the one leaving is cold. By 100*?? No, but its a big difference. Soon as it hits the alky the pipe is very cold.
 

ZMann

vertically challenged
Re: My custom DIY a2a intercooler (pics)

Make me one? :) Post some temps will you get the chance!
 
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