BMW M6 F12/F13/F06 Tuning Guide
BMW S63B44B Tuning Guide
The BMW S63B44B engine, found in the M5 F10 and M6 F12/F13, is a high-performance 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 that delivers impressive power and acceleration from the factory. However, for those looking to take their M5 or M6 to the next level, tuning offers significant potential to boost performance further. Whether you're aiming for moderate improvements or pushing the car to its limits, understanding the stages of tuning and the necessary hardware is key to getting the best results without compromising reliability.
If you're new to the M5 or M6, check out our dedicated pages below for your next performance product.
BMW M5 F10 tuning parts and modifications
BMW M6 F12/F13/F06 tuning parts and modifications
Stage Tuning Overview
When it comes to tuning the S63B44B engine, most enthusiasts break it down into three stages: Stage 1, Stage 2, and Stage 3. Each stage builds upon the previous one, requiring additional upgrades to support the increased power levels. Please note "stage tuning" is a method of explaining upgrades and their requirements in an easy way. Check with your chosen tuner as to their recommended parts and upgrade paths.
Stage 1 Tuning
Stage 1 is the entry-level tune, suitable for those who want noticeable improvements without extensive modifications. This level typically involves remapping the ECU to optimise the engine’s performance. The goal is to increase power without requiring major hardware changes.
- Estimated Power Gains: Around 40-70bhp, depending on the tuner and specific software.
- Hardware Requirements: No significant hardware upgrades are needed at this stage. A Stage 1 tune primarily relies on the ECU remap to optimise boost levels, fuel maps, and timing. Some additional intake and exhaust improvements may be made, but the car’s stock hardware should be sufficient to handle the extra power.
Stage 1 Benefits:
- Increased horsepower and torque.
- Improved throttle response and overall driving dynamics.
- Minimal impact on engine reliability, as stock components are generally sufficient for the increased power output.
Stage 2 Tuning
Stage 2 tuning introduces more aggressive power increases and typically requires a few hardware upgrades to support the extra output. At this level, the car can start to show significant performance gains, but it also puts additional strain on the engine components, so it’s essential to ensure everything is up to spec.
- Estimated Power Gains: Around 80-120bhp over stock.
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Hardware Requirements: At this stage, a few hardware upgrades are necessary, including:
- Upgraded Downpipes: More efficient downpipes will allow the turbos to spool faster and release exhaust gases more efficiently.
- High-Flow Air Filters: Improved intake filtration helps the engine breathe more easily and supports higher power output.
- Upgraded Chargecooler: An upgraded chargecooler helps manage intake temperatures, preventing power loss due to heat soak.
- Cat-back Exhaust: A performance exhaust system ensures a better exhaust flow, which is essential for maximising the gains from the ECU remap.
Stage 2 Benefits:
- Substantial increases in horsepower and torque.
- Noticeable improvements in acceleration, throttle response, and overall performance.
- Can be used as a daily driver while still offering a significant boost in power.
Stage 3 Tuning
Stage 3 tuning is for those seeking to take their S63B44B engine to its maximum potential. This stage involves more comprehensive hardware upgrades and is aimed at those who are serious about performance, including track use and very high horsepower targets. The modifications required at this stage will involve significant changes to the engine’s components, and the car’s overall performance can be truly extraordinary.
- Estimated Power Gains: 150bhp+ over stock, with potential to reach 800-900bhp with the right upgrades.
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Hardware Requirements:
- Larger Turbochargers: Replacing the stock turbos with larger units allows for greater air flow, which is essential for high-power builds. This can significantly increase power output.
- Upgraded Fuel System: To support the additional fuel needs of a Stage 3 setup, you’ll need larger injectors and possibly a higher-capacity fuel pump.
- Upgraded Pistons, Rods, and Crankshaft: Strengthening the internal components is crucial at this power level. Forged pistons, rods, and a forged crankshaft will allow the engine to handle the increased stress.
- Upgraded Cooling System: A high-performance radiator and oil cooler are necessary to manage the additional heat generated by the engine at higher power levels.
- Transmission Upgrades: Whilst not strictly essential, it is always worth considering upgrading your cars' drivetrain to cope with the extra torque.
Stage 3 Benefits:
- Extreme power and torque gains, suitable for serious track use or street racing.
- Unmatched acceleration and top-end performance.
- Significant engine and drivetrain modifications that can improve overall durability at high-performance levels.
Reinforcing the Engine (Forging the Engine)
For those looking to push the S63B44B engine well beyond its factory limits, it is essential to reinforce the engine. "Forging the engine" refers to the process of upgrading the internal components to ensure that the engine can handle much higher power outputs without failure.
- Forged Pistons: Forged pistons are stronger and more durable than stock pistons, which helps them withstand higher pressures and temperatures.
- Forged Connecting Rods: Upgrading to forged rods helps to reduce the risk of bending or breaking under high levels of stress.
- Upgraded Crankshaft: A forged crankshaft offers superior strength and durability, essential when running significantly higher power levels.
- Balanced Internals: Balancing the engine internals reduces vibration and helps the engine run smoother under heavy load.
Why You Need It:
- Forging the engine is critical when aiming for power levels of 800bhp or more. Stock internals simply cannot handle the increased power and stress, which can lead to catastrophic engine failure if not addressed.
- The forged components also improve the longevity of the engine under extreme conditions, making the car more suitable for track days or high-performance street driving.
Other Considerations for Tuning the S63B44B
Drivetrain Upgrades: As power increases, it’s essential to consider drivetrain upgrades to handle the additional torque and power. Upgraded clutches, limited-slip differentials, and stronger driveshafts can help transmit the power to the wheels efficiently.
Cooling: High-performance builds generate significant heat, so keeping the engine, turbochargers, and intercoolers cool is vital. Consider additional oil coolers, upgraded radiators, and possibly even a water-methanol injection system to manage temperatures at high-performance levels.
ECU Tuning and Remapping: With any stage of tuning, an ECU remap is necessary to optimise fuel delivery, ignition timing, and boost levels. At higher stages of tuning, professional tuning is crucial to ensure the engine is operating within safe parameters.
Conclusion
Tuning the BMW S63B44B engine can dramatically enhance the performance of the M5 F10 and M6 F12/F13. Whether you are looking to gain a modest power increase with a Stage 1 tune or pushing the limits with a Stage 3 build, it is important to follow the correct steps and invest in the necessary hardware to ensure reliability. Forging the engine is a crucial step for those aiming for extremely high power levels, as it allows the engine to handle the stresses of aggressive tuning. By following the correct tuning stages and ensuring all supporting components are upgraded, the S63B44B engine can provide exhilarating performance and an unforgettable driving experience.