OVERVIEW
The aFe Power BladeRunner cold-side intercooler tube replaces the restrictive plastic factory charge pipe on the N55 turbo BMW with a 3" mandrel-bent aluminum tube that outflows the stock piece by 16%. The smooth transition mandrel bends reduce turbulence, which increases horsepower and torque while lowering exhaust gas temperatures.
The tube retains the OE-style throttle body quick connect, machined from 6061-T6 billet aluminum, so it connects exactly like the factory pipe and works with the OE intercooler. A laser-cut aluminum aFe Power logo plate is welded on for an aggressive look.
The tube is powder-coated wrinkle black, which insulates it from engine heat and protects against corrosion. A heavy-duty 5-ply reinforced silicone elbow coupling and premium stainless-steel clamps give a leak-free seal, and all necessary hardware is included for a hassle-free installation.
SPECS
- Outflows the factory intercooler tube by 16%
- Tube: 3" cold-side mandrel-bent aluminum
- Finish: wrinkle-black powder coat for heat and corrosion resistance
- Throttle body connection: OE-style quick connect machined from 6061-T6 billet aluminum
- Coupling: 5-ply reinforced silicone elbow
- Premium stainless-steel clamps
- Works with the OE intercooler
- Welded-on laser-cut aluminum aFe Power logo plate
- Not CARB exempt
PARTS INCLUDED
- Cold-side intercooler tube — 1
- Coupling — 1
- Clamps — 2
- O-ring — 1
- Screws — 2
TECH RESOURCES
Additional Parts Required
- None. aFe Power specifies no additional hardware for this charge pipe — it bolts to the OE intercooler and throttle body and includes all necessary hardware.
- Installer supplies basic hand tools: metric sockets and wrenches, a nut driver for the hose clamps and a trim tool for the engine cover and underbody panel clips.
Installation
Notes
- Note: This system is not CARB exempt at this time and is not legal for sale in California or use on vehicles registered with the California Department of Motor Vehicles.
- Years and chassis above follow aFe Power's official installation instructions (2011–2013 335i E90/E92/E93 N55), which run later than the 2011–2012 range in the product title. The 135i (E82/E88) referenced in the title is not on aFe's official application list for this number — confirm fitment with Speed Logic before ordering for a 1 Series.
PART NUMBER
- 46-20249-B — BladeRunner cold-side intercooler tube, wrinkle black
VEHICLE APPLICATIONS
| Make / Model | Chassis | Engine | Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| BMW 335i | E90 / E92 / E93 | N55 3.0L Turbo I6 | 2011–2013 |