Is Alpha N Tune OR CSL Conversion better? + How to install CSL MAP conversion BMW E46 M3 S54
Channel: Fatboys Garage
Date: 2020-08-19

For more Information Go to FBGmotorwerks.com
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

Airbox Choices

CSL airbox kit Gloss- Manual Transmission
https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=wjLDNk1cnDk&mid=43304&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ecstuning.com%2Fb-turner-motorsport-parts%2Feuro-csl-intake%2F003313tms01kt3%2F

CSL airbox kit Gloss- SMG transmission- Includes SMG reservoir and brackets to mount it.
https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=wjLDNk1cnDk&mid=43304&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ecstuning.com%2Fb-turner-motorsport-parts%2Feuro-csl-intake%2F003313tms01kt%2F

CSL airbox kit- Matte - Manual transmission
https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=wjLDNk1cnDk&mid=43304&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ecstuning.com%2Fb-turner-motorsport-parts%2Feuro-csl-intake%2F003313tms01kt5%2F

CSL airbox kit Matte- SMG transmission
https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=wjLDNk1cnDk&mid=43304&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ecstuning.com%2Fb-turner-motorsport-parts%2Feuro-csl-intake%2F003313tms01kt2%2F
Extra needed parts

CSL dipstick- optional- can just modify stock dipstick
https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=wjLDNk1cnDk&mid=43304&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ecstuning.com%2Fb-genuine-european-bmw-parts%2Fcsl-oil-dipstick%2F11437834784%7Egeb%2F

CSL dipstick tube( option used only with CSL dipstick
https://click.linksynergy.com/deeplink?id=wjLDNk1cnDk&mid=43304&murl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ecstuning.com%2Fb-genuine-european-bmw-parts%2Fcsl-dipstick-tube%2F11437833653%7Eoeb%2F

ECU tuning Options

CSL Map conversion-  here are links from the tuner we used for our car.  Kassel Performance when you order, let them know you saw their products on Fatboy’s Garage!

CSL MSS54HP ECU conversion and tuning
https://www.kasselperformance.com/product/mss54-mss54hp-full-csl-hardwarefirmware-conversion/

Map sensor+ wiring kit
https://www.kasselperformance.com/product/bmw-e46-m3-s54-csl-map-sensor-conversion-kit/

If you decide that the CSL conversion is not best for your application, then you can go Alpha N- Epic motorsports is one of the most highly recommended Tuners in the business! Watch the video and read below to learn more to make the best choice for you!

The CSL airbox deletes the OEM MAF sensor which is used to make adjustments to engine operation based on different variables affecting oxygen flow.  Therefore the ECU must be changed to either run without the MAF or utilize the CSL MAP sensor which was used on the OEM CSL.  Which do you do?  Theres two options.

The first being the ALPHA N tune which is very popular and widely used the second being to perform a full CSL Conversion.  Lets go over what each one is and the benefits and drawbacks of each option

 Alpha N- tune
pros: May offer superior performance in optimal conditions and custom tune, simple installation only requires a flash of the ECU no other modifications necessary
Cons:  ECU sticks to one tune, and therefore cannot factor in variables such as weather and make adjustments, engine will will run poorly if oxygen flow and conditions aren’t optimal due to no variable adjustments by ECU.  A custom alpha N tune can be very pricey

Recommended Tuner: epic motorsports

The other which we chose is to perform the full CSL MAP conversion
PROS: Close to OEM drivability because the ECU has ability to calculate real time engine flow via the MAP sensor and then make adjustments for variable conditions based on the actual oxygen flow, no custom tune necessary although this is an option with your tuner based on other modifications
CONS: Requires conversion of your ECU to the CSL ECU configuration.  MUST have the MSS54HP ECU. additional wiring and installation of the CSL MAP sensor to the ECU. Requires the CSL air rail or a suitable Air rail modification to the stock air rail for the CSL MAP sensor

Recommended Tuner:  Kassel performance