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      09-01-2013, 11:57 PM   #1
///Miniz racer
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Has anyone tracked with a steptronic?

Has anyone tracked with the steptronic auto?
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      09-02-2013, 09:32 AM   #2
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Not me but I've seen plenty of e9x on track with steptronic and its fine. It's not the best platform for a dedicated track car but I see no issue with the occasional driver school.
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      09-03-2013, 05:44 PM   #3
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Quote:
Originally Posted by 3002 Tii View Post
Not me but I've seen plenty of e9x on track with steptronic and its fine. It's not the best platform for a dedicated track car but I see no issue with the occasional driver school.
Ha Thanks, looking around to see if I can find a 2.5l with smg, but so far its only been steptronic
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      09-03-2013, 07:05 PM   #4
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Originally Posted by ///Miniz racer View Post
Ha Thanks, looking around to see if I can find a 2.5l with smg, but so far its only been steptronic
I would take the reliability of a step over 1st gen smg anyday. Keep in mind some clubs (ironically CCA) won't allow a convertible on track. PCA and NASA are ok with it though.
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      09-03-2013, 11:12 PM   #5
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The biggest problem with steptronic is the heat that the automatic/torque converter generates. Since the transmission oil cooler share a core with the radiator, you'll likely see water temp anywhere between 10-20ºF higher than you would in an SMG or manual.

Luckily, the M54/N52 are quite reliable in terms of heat management. But I have seen various E9X 328i go into limp mode in high ambient temp situations at tracks with a lot of low speed turns. If you do end up with a steptronic equipped vehicle, I'd invest in a transmission oil cooler just in case.

Otherwise, they are just as reliable, if not for the torque converter and the planetary gearing having a mind of their own.
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      05-01-2016, 04:58 PM   #6
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Just posted a new thread with the same question before I found this one.

I would think the torque converter would lock up at higher speeds in sport mode to mitigate heat. Anybody know if the steptronic will hold a gear at max revs or upshift automatically while in manual sport mode?
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