A Fun Build ..... 2003 BMW M5 DINAN'fied!

This was one of those fun projects. Our Client, Eddy A had ordered his DINAN modifications from us. He got things like the Cold Air Intake, the AFM / MAFs, and strut bars for his absolutely gorgeous LeMans Blue 2003 BMW M5. He then asked if I could help him install the parts as well as tune the car with the appropriate DINAN tune. He figured since I would be doing the tune, might as well knock it all out together at the same time.

I gladly agreed, especially since this did not involve suspension installation - ya know.... that darn rear suspension get up! 🤣🤣🤣

We set up a date - it would be a Saturday in early November. This particular installation was one that highlighted the fun and advantage of being a Concierge style operation. Eddy asked if he could observe the process and possibly learn some stuff and even chip in if needed. Eddy had already come across as another one of those uber cool car enthusiast so I was happy accommodate him with this. We M5 guys are a bit Mandalorian like...... This is The Way.

The day came and Eddy arrived with the car. I know I said it is a gorgeous car, and indeed it is. I am still in awe as I remember seeing it in person for the first. We got the car inside the shop and got started on our project for the day.

The Arrival - 2003 BMW M5 in Gorgeous LeMans Blue

It would be Cold Air Intake, AFM / MAFs and Strut Bar and then a tune to finish it off. According to DINAN, this is about a 10 hour job - just for the Cold Air Intake. Real life says ten plus hours depending on how things go and we all know tis BMW life that the best laid plans simply just get laid out!

I will you spare you some of the details of the painful and testing parts of this installation. Let's just say ten hours was a little bit of wishful thinking.

I was side tracked a bit by some of the subtle changes this late production 2003 car exhibited compared to say my 2000 MY M5, not too surprised though as BMW are know for their mid model changes.

The changes were enough to require some adjustments to the typical installation procedures. As usual, the Passenger side install was a bit of a bear. For this install, we would be adding the Heat Shields, but not the Water Deflectors. I'll be upfront to tell you that I do not run the deflectors on my own personal M5 either.

If, by the way, you did get to that point or that far as you trudged along with the DINAN instructions and you successfully mounted your Water Deflectors (It can be done), I have a medal waiting here for ya! 😎

I gotta tell ya, I LOVE the DINAN installation documents. I sometimes feel it's like stopping by Burger King for a meal based on an ad you saw. You never EVER quite get the same burger as pictured in the ads.... LOL! 😂 It's always off just enough to make you go hmmmm....

The images in the DINAN instructions are picture perfect - the SAP Pump installed, the filters and all that fit perfectly together. Not always so in real life man!!!!

With this car, due to some subtle changes from BMW, even the heat shields alone were a challenge. I tell you what, it was cool to have the Customer alongside as an observer and also at various stages, as a helper.

He got to see pretty much how the car goes together and got to learn more about his car and build confidence for future DIY work if and when needed.

It took its time, it was a long day, but we got through the install. Got it all done - Cold Air Intake and the hoses, filters and IAT Relocation.

I was delighted that the DME box screws did not crap out on us as they sometimes do. AFM / MAFs went in, and we were able to bolt it all back together.

Yes, as typical, the under engine belly cover was a tad bit tough to get in, but get it in we did. Have the car high enough and you can get it in using a sharper or more acute angle to slip it in.

Once we had all the hardware done, we took a much deserved break for some food and refreshment and took time to ponder this madness we call a passion.

Yeah.... he's part of the White Tank Crew!

After our break, we finished off the day and the job by installing the DINAN Flash Tune on the car. With the Cold Air Intake and AFM / MAFs, we were able to install a Stage 3 Tune on the car.

Making it all Legit.

I was thrilled to have a DINAN Badge on hand for Eddy as his car qualified for the 10 DINAN points needed AND I happened to have a badge on hand - so why not give it to him.

He most certainly earned it that. He not only earned the badge, but also my respect, admiration and kinship. One of the BIGGEST advantages to this gig and all this is the friendships I have had the incredible honor and privilege to develop. Eddy - thanks the opportunity to help put your baby together and thanks for sharing your day here. It was truly a pleasure. Enjoy your ride Sir!