Testimonials
Performing imports
Well, to be honest I don’t think words will really explain how pleased
I am with the work that you have done on my 2000 540i. Initially I had spoken
to a few mechanics, European auto sports and couple of other locations in the
buck head district of Atlanta. I was advised that my cats needed to be replaced
and after thorough research I ran across a couple of locals who had done business
with you guys before. From what they told me you guys @ performing imports are
the gods of the BMW!!!!! Well I have to agree!! I called and talked with Sal,
and he insured me that I was at the right place. I am truly surprised at the
outcome of my vehicle after leaving the shop! Guess you can call me 1 of the
many lunatics on the road speeding up and down the freeway! After talking to
Sal he told me that I would not believe the difference in the car after the Extended
Life Maintenance and he was absolutely correct. And that there was NOTHING wrong
with my cats! In simple terms, Amazing! Acceleration to 100, gear transition,
no more noise, due to a broken drive shaft. The car exceeds my expectation by
far. I have never seen a group of people who truly take as much pride into a
vehicle as Performing Imports! In my days of cars I have dumped a pretty penny
into performance parts. Coming from a coupe producing more that 600 to the wheel
in a v6 is not a cheap price to pay to get that type of output, but I have to
say that with the work that was completed, I love this car even more. I want
to thank you for such wonderful service and more than ever your ability to back
your word. Remember what we spoke about Sal, when I said to you have to pay to
play! Well, let’s just say I want to play and you’re going to be
the premier of every episode that I have with my 5. Dinan, here we come! The
goal Sal is to stay below 15k at least until the middle of next year. You have
blown my mind already, if you guys keep this up, I will have to fill for a divorce,
because I know now I love this car more that my wife! Thanks again. YOU GUYS
ARE THE BEST I HAVE EVER SEEN, and this is coming from a black guy!!!!! Lol
Clay
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Hi Ron, wanted to touch
base now that I have had the 545 back for a few days.
Considering the only thing done was a major maintainence
that had never been done like this before (49,000
miles) I am pretty blown away. You could hear it
in the engine before I drove off (less muted) and
feel it as I left your shop. The best word I can
come up with is "lively". Now it is a fun
car to drive again. The problem is that it is so
intoxicating that I know I will want the cold air
intake and stage 2 engine mods. next time thru. My
sons 325ci is next, at 58,000 miles I am sure it
has never been serviced the way you guys do it. Frankly
the piece of mind makes it worth getting taken care
of. My $2500 extended warranty I was considering
is going into performance upgrades instead, Thanks
Ron and Sal, you guys are pros!
Bruce
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Dinan 335i ECU Upgrade
Ron:
Just wanted to drop you a quick note to tell you
how much I am enjoying my 2008 335i sedan with the
Dinan ECU Upgrade. In definitely performs as promised,
with little change from the pre-modified civility
during normal driving. But, when you punch the accelerator,
its hard to believe you are driving the same car.
The 335i was fast before, but the Dinan mod makes
it so much quicker when you need it. Having driven
it a few hundred miles since the ECU reflash, I can
also verify that there is no difference in fuel economy,
even though I've been taking advantage of the extra
power a little more than usual! ... and it only took
about half an hour to make the transformation, which
is even more unbelievable.
Norm
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Ron,
Just writing to thank you and your team for your
transformation of my 2006 E60 M5. While my M5 was
quite a step up from my previous vehicles, I couldn't
resist the available Dinan upgrades. When you told
me that I would be driving a totally different car
you weren't kidding; the car is clearly more responsive,
with an improvement in power throughout the rev range
and in the low-end torque that is an Achilles' heel
for the E60 M5. I am noticing much more wheelspin
and expect to need new rear tires sooner than I anticipated--a
small price to pay for the performance experience.
Not only do I enjoy the added power from the free-flow
exhaust, throttle bodies, and stage 2 engine software,
but I also appreciate the improved exhaust note,
which is sporty yet not obnoxious. A German friend
of mine who drives a CL65 AMG thinks my M5 now has
better accelleration and power than his, and he loves
the sound of the exhaust. I highly recommend anyone
with an E60 M5 to consider Dinan as their sole aftermarket
tuner and Performing Imports as their installer.
Expect a call from me when the high flow air mass
meters are available.
I also want to extent a word of thanks to Sal for
his superior professionalism and availability to
answer all of my questions. I also want to thank
Evan L. for recommending you.
Rick
Atlanta, GA
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Ron,
It will come as no surprise to you that every single
day I am enjoying the results of your work on my
330I. The peace of mind that the 30K mile maintenance
brought me--not to mention the silky-smooth feel
of the engine and transmission--is only a piece of
it. While I am already starting to take it for granted,
the Stage 2 software and cold air intake have really
made highway on ramps fun! And everything above about
4,000 RPMs is just an awesome experience. I know
I've barely started to scratch the surface of what
you and Dinan can do to make the most out of an already
awesome car. Thank you for your honest and straightforward
approach to doing business and making customers happy
Ron. No more dealership maintenance for me--I'll
see you in a couple thousand miles for my next oil
change.
Kirk
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Ron & Team,
Its hard to know where to begin – I first meet
you in 2003 after I bought a used 2000 E39 Model
M5 - I had a dealer strip a drain plug and forget
to reattach a cooling fan, but other than that I
was satisfied with the dealers…
You maintained my M5 and most importantly, in December
of 2004 / January of 2005 you rebuilt the motor after
my block was cracked (I drove through a puddle that
was very deep and sucked water into the motor). As
part of the rebuild, you talked me into stepping
up to the S1 Dinan Package, a lightened flywheel
and shorter 3.45 gears. I was nervous as I had previously
owned a super-charged Mustang GT that never ran well
and I was wary of modifying a car that was incredible
in its stock format.
After breaking the motor in, and after over 2.5 years
of driving, I’m happy to admit that the only
thing I’ve had to do with the car is change
the oil. This car rocks – Its sad to say, but
it made my stock M5 look like a 540! After the first
year of driving, I added the header package (and
hopefully next year I will add the throttle bodies
and velocity stacks) and the car continues to be
a joy to drive (whether it’s driving slow in
the city or fast on the highway). Additionally, from
the factory the stock motor burned 1 liter of oil
every 1,500 miles – now the car does not burn
any oil.
I can’t thank you enough for taking care of
my car and providing honest advice (don’t repaint
the car unless you have to / have the dealer replace
the cats (they were under warranty and I had problems
with them given the incident I had in 2005)) on multiple
occasions. Please let me know if you would like to
me to talk with anyone who is considering modifying
their M5 (or any other BMW for that matter).
I look forward to seeing you soon and adding the
velocity stacks and throttle bodies next February
(maybe this year if I can convince the wife).
Take care,
Bill
C. William Beebe, CFA
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Ron:
Thanks for restoring my BWM to it’s performing
capabilities. Now I remember why I bought a 540!
Its a pleasure to drive again.
Bill
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ron,
thank you for the great job you have done on my bmw 645 coupe... it is now a
dinan6 car!
this is my 3rd bmw car that was modified by you and your stuff and i simply could'nt
be happier!
the 645's performance is now truly amazing. it is more responsive, agile and
awe strucks many of the porches and mbs i now pass so effortlessly...
but more then the car'supgraded performance , it has been your professional approach
,attention to details ,vast knowledge of bmws,coupled with your friendly and
straight- forward style ,that makes me return back to you for all of my dinan
upgrades.
all my very best to you and your family.
your friend,
oded zyssman
norcorss, ga.
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Sent: June 25, 2007
Hi, my name is Kevin and you guys performed a extended
life service on my 01'X5 last week and I must say
you did a excellent job. The engine idles smooth
and acceleration is great. I was actually considering
trading in the X5 but after driving it after your
service you have definitely extended the life me
and the old X will be spending together.
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Sent: April 24, 2007
Subject: Quality and Integrity
Dear Steve:
I wanted to write to express my appreciation for
the way you and your company have stood behind your
installation of a Stage 3 package on my 2000 E-39,
M5. The car has been problematic as you know, but
your handling of the various issues has been outstanding.
I think you learn more about a company when there
are problems than when everything goes well. You
have convinced me through your desire to make things
right that the Dinan name stands for quality and
integrity.
The other reason for writing this letter is to express
how much respect I have for Ron Trochelmann at Performing
Imports. Ron is the best and most knowledgeable person
who has ever worked on any of my cars. He is a true
professional, and I am certain that is why you have
approved Performing Imports to be the shop to install
Stage 3 packages in the Southeast.
Steve, thank you so very much for standing behind
your work and making what would have really been
a nightmare into a more pleasant experience.
Sincerely,
Evan Lindsay
Vice Chairman
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Sent: April 24, 2007
Subject:
Passport SRX vs. Valentine 1 testimonial
Ron and staff,
When I first came to Performing Imports, I was quite
happy with the performance of my Valentine 1 radar
detector. Its industry-leading ratings and unique
functionality had served me very well for years,
and I had never received a traffic ticket. I had
what I thought was a very neat hardwiredsetup in
my car, and I hadn't a care in the world that I would
ever get nabbed.
I am a very recent Atlanta transplant, having come
here from northern Virginia. In Virginia, cops use
radar almost exclusively; lidar (laser speed sensing)
is a very rare phenomenon. As I discovered from some
new cop friends in Stone Mountain, nearly every department
in Georgia gravitates towards lidar instead of radar.
In fact, within the first couple of weeks that I
lived here, I was in Oakwood, GA and received a ticket
based on a lidar signal that my Valentine 1 did not
detect. Obviously something had to
be changed, and it was not going to be my driving
habits.
Ron suggested the Passport SRX system. I was immediately
turned off to the system due to its sky-high cost.
However, it offers sky-high performance on both radar
and lidar bands, and the installation of the system
in the car is not only unobtrusive, but looks like
original equipment after Ron is through
with it.
I have had the Passport SRX system in my car for
1,600 miles of mixed highway and city driving. I
have kept my Valentine 1 in its customary place to
compare the two detectors. As a lidar instrument,
the SRX blows away the Valentine system, although
that is not a surprise. The surprise came in the
radar performance.
The Valentine 1 has two excellent radar antennae
that provide directional alerts on four bands of
radar.
The biggest criticism of its system typically is
that it is over-eager to tell the driver of the presence
of radar, so grocery stores and gas stations appear
to be police to the Valentine. This is the case even
with the advanced-logic systems enabled on the Valentine.
The Escort SRX also gives false alarms. However,
it gives notably fewer of them than the Valentine
does. It also has more obvious ways of signalling
that there is a problem than the
Valentine, especially if the driver likes to use
his stereo.
There are only two advantages of the Valentine over
the SRX system. Firstly, the Valentine has a facility
for detecting that the local radiation from the oscillators
of inferior detectors are in fact other detectors
rather than police Ka radar. While the Valentine
has determined this and started flashing "Junk," the
SRX system continues to alert the signal until it
is out of range. Secondly, the SRX radar antenna
is supposed to be mounted low on the front bumper
of the vehicle. This is not an optimal location for
quick detection, and so the Valentine would typically
alert between half a second to a second earlier than
the Escort when crowning a hill.
This second advantage could be easily made equal
by installing the radar antenna above the rearview
mirror in the headliner rather than in the front
bumper.
I find the Escort SRX to be entirely satisfactory
in every way, and worth every penny that I paid for
it.
The satisfaction I have gotten so far from seeing
officers stare perplexedly at their lidar guns as
I scream by is priceless. My Valentine 1 is officially
retired.
Nathaniel Hannan
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Sent: April 24th, 2007
Subject:
testimonial for supercharger
Ron and staff,
About seven months ago, I bought my E39 540i. It
had 130,000 miles on it and had been fairly well
maintained. Since then, the Performing Imports crew
has modified the car into a Dinan 5 with new suspension
work, a Dinan free-flowing cat-back exhaust, and
software. While I was very impressed with the 540's
greater torque and horsepower numbers compared to
my E36 M3, I knew somewhere down deep that I would
eventually want to go forced induction--and sooner
rather than later.
After a lot of thought and budget-calculating, I
settled my mind on it. The numbers are 415 horsepower
and 400 ft-lbs of torque at 6psi. That is running
on 91 octane California gas and with the stock exhaust
system. Given that I always run on 93 octane and
have a free-flowing exhaust, I would imagine that
my
numbers are now a tad higher than that. For comparison's
sake, the numbers for a stock E39 M5 are
394 hp and 369 ft-lbs of torque.
Before, I drove a highway beast. Drop it into 3rd
gear at 55 mph, and I practically ruled the road.
Now, I drive a highway monster. Huge gobs of power
are available in every gear. Changing gears when
I'm really going for it means that the car takes
a HUGE lunge forward when the clutch engages. The
exhaust sounded great before. Now it sounds deeper,
bassier, meaner at low RPM, and at high RPM, it practically
sings. I haven't taken it to a track or dynoed it
yet, but I have every confidence that I'll be quite
satisfied with the results when I do.
What is most impressive to me is the smoothness
of the results. The E39 540, despite its huge amounts
of stock torque, accelerates more smoothly than any
other car I'd owned due to the rail-flat torque curve.
The supercharged version has a much steeper torque
curve...but it is equally flat. It presses me firmly
back into my seat when I give it the beans, no question.
If it was the ultimate driving machine before, I
can't even think of adjectives to describe it now.
Needless to say, I'm on cloud nine.
It's all thanks to you and the guys, Ron. Keep up
the good work.
Nathaniel Hannan
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Sent: April 24, 2007
Subject: Work and Modifications Preformed on My 2003
M3
Dear Ron,
This letter is long overdue but after the recent
work you performed on the car I just had to put my
thoughts into writing.
First of all, every time you guys touch this car
it performs better and better (and this is after
70,000 miles). A couple of years ago I was exploring
improving the performance of an already incredible
automobile. I found your business through the Dinan
website and you convincingly talked me into purchasing
the Dinan package that included the cold air intake,
exhaust, strut bar, suspension and software. The
work turned out fabulous and the car (I thought)
was at another level performance wise. Shortly after
that you performed the 30,000 mile service, of which
I can only say to anyone that if you want your car
to perform at peak levels you need to service it
properly (and that doesn’t mean
the manufacturers service intervals). The work was
top notch.
I recently brought the car in for another 30,000
mile service and thanks to your thorough attentiveness
discovered a damaged/leaking rear seal (from a clutch
replacement handled poorly by the dealer). You were
able to handle the replacement of a new seal through
the extended warranty, which was an added bonus.
I also (thanks to your excellent negotiating skills)
added the Dinan throttle bodies and software upgrades.
I have been driving the car now for a little over
a week and it is at a level of performance I can’t
begin to describe. The shifting through the SMG is
flawless and much superior to the “stock”.
The car just plain performs at a level far superior
to when I bought it 4 years ago.
All I can do is thank you for all the great advice
you have provided, the attentive and superior service
with a quality that is second to none.
Sincerely,
Bob Skorupski
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Sent: April 24, 2007
Subject:
Doug Tierney X5
Ron and Staff,
The Exhaust is obnoxious, but way too much fun to
roost!! Nascar here I come! My wife is not happy,
suspects something is broke!!!! Ha ha. Every guy
who hears it goes nuts! An amazing sound.
The day-to-day drive-ability is better than the day
I bought it. Gas mileage is excellent also. Not sure
I feel a noticeable gain in acceleration, but I suspect
the improved transmission makes some of that deceiving.
It actual seems to lag at lower rpms, not revving
as aggressively as before. Will continue driving
and getting used to the silky transmission - wow.
The previous shifts were abrupt, and brutal during
a stop. The shifts during normal acceleration are
seemless. Almost seems to hesitate a second longer
than before during an instant press to the gas pedal
and downshift, might be worth some review after more
driving. The power at 4k and above is solid as expected.
Would love to compare to another X5 4.6 or 4.8. I
could previously run dead-even with the ’04
and ’05 4.8 on two occasions (with onlythe
cold air and chip). Will try to test drive a newer
one in Gwinnett or elsewhere soon. Otherwise, I’ll
be hunting a victim on the street.
Let me know if I should drop by. I’d be happy
to leave it with you to drive, comment, tweak, etc.
Your team performed perfectly and were a pleasure
to work with. I will definitely recommend your facility
and see you for all future maintenance.
Doug Tierney
Best Net Solutions, LLC
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Sent: April 24, 2007
Subject: Thank you
Ron,
Just a note of thanks for all the great work you
did to bring my BMW back to better than factory running
condition. The situation with the front end shimmy
was driving me crazy and almost forced me to trade
the car!! Not to mention my concern with the car
turning 100k miles. I was reluctant at first to drive
all the way to Atlanta for service, but believe me
the piece of mind was well worth it. The trip home
after you
performed the long term maintenance was pure joy,
the car runs better than when I picked it up from
the dealer years ago. I do want to get the software
upgrade program for the transmission and we'll talk
about it the next time I bring the car in, if not
sooner. Thanks for the great customer service!!!
John M. Howell
The Boeing Company
Macon, Georgia
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Ron,
Now that I've had my car back for almost a month,
I just wanted to drop you a line to say how impressed
I am with the Dinan modifications you installed in
my 2005 330Ci ZHP convertible. The software, throttle
body, and high flow intake system have made a real
difference. I especially notice the change when passing "slower" drivers
on the busy Atlanta freeways. It was pleasure working
with your folks, too. They are all very professional
and courteous. I'll be sure to give you a call when
it's time for the next round of modifications. I
just need to convince the wife first...
Thanks again,
Bart Morgan
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Sent: Friday, January 27, 2006 10:40 AM
Subject: Thank you!
Dear Ron:
I wanted to thank you for the excellent work and
customer service you provided with the installation
of the VF-Engineering Supercharger kit. I know you
had never installed this particular kit and had reservations
about it. I very much appreciate your willingness
to humor me by agreeing to install it. I hope that
VF-Engineering incorporates your suggestions into
future generations of their kit. I am also very happy
to find someone as highly qualified as you to work
on my '57 190sl!!
Thank you again and I look forward to working with
you in the future for
all my BMW and Mercedes service needs.
Cody Laird, III
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Sent: Thursday, October 12, 2006 11:13 AM
Subject: testimonial
Dear Ron,
You recently performed a major 30,000 mile service
on my 1999 540i/6. You are a new mechanic to me.
When I moved to Atlanta from DC a couple of months
ago, finding a new mechanic was very high on my priority
list. I interviewed six guys for the job. You were
clearly the most knowledgeable and customer-friendly
of the six, so I decided to give you a try.
I was initially sceptical when you told me that
the first service you did was going to cost a minimum
of $1200, given that I didn't think there was anything
wrong with my car and you were just changing fluids,
filters, and plugs. Then you did the service! I've
driven nearly two thousand miles since picking my
car up at your shop last week. I have noticed a huge
difference in the way the clutch operates. The steering
is also mildly more predictable, and the brake pedal
is a good deal less mushy. My gas mileage on the
highway has improved from 27.8 to 30.4.
I think the results speak for themselves. Clearly
there were some things that needed to be done. Looks
like you did them pretty well. I'll be back.
Nathaniel Hannan
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Sent: Monday, September 11, 2006 6:58 PM
Subject: My testimonial
When my 540i Sport went off the factory warrantee
I brought it in to Performing Imports. I wanted the
same Life Extension Service that had transformed
my 740i Sport by seeming to take 30,000 miles off
the odometer. The dealership also couldn’t
find a worsening and annoying irregular idle problem.
What a difference!!! It feels like, idles like, sounds
like and definitely goes like a whole different animal.
The Dinan engine and transmission software have also
made a difference. I am very, very pleased with Ron
and Aarons work, honesty and commitment to excellence.
I’m looking forward to making my 540 a Dinan
5 and having even more fun.
Thanks again!!
Rick Neal
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Sent: Tuesday, October 17, 2006 10:19 AM
Subject: BMW 540i
Dear Ron,
Thanks for the great work you did recently on my
2003 BMW 540i. I had the long term maintenance at
just over 40,000 miles, and the car runs better than
it did when it was new. I appreciate you taking the
play out of the clutch, which makes the transmission
just perfect for Atlanta driving. Thanks also for
the education. Like many of the other people who
have written testimonials, I had been religiously
servicing my car at the BMW dealership, and was not
particularly happy to know that the recommended service
plan would not maximize the life of the car. All’s
well that ends well; now I know, and will be a faithful
customer. I’m looking forward to the install
of the Dinan CAI and stage II software sometime in
the future.
Best regards,
John Baldwin
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Sent: Wednesday, November 15, 2006 12:26 PM
Subject: Bill Ross recent visit
Dear Guys and girls:
Well, my first encounter with your organization has
been a fun and rewarding experience.
Now that I have discovered your place and what you
do, I feel very lucky to have made contact.
From the bays, through the technicians, and front
office you are first class. You all seem to care
about your customers with a real sense of pride in
your business. Very refreshing
The recent upgrade of my motor chip and transmission
change has really now taken effect and I find my
BMW 330cic ready to run better, smoother, and much
quicker in the 2m and 5m range. Course having the
limiter off is an added bonus.
More fun than I can stand right now.
Best wishes,
Bill Ross
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From: Mechelle Isler
Subject: Report Back on Car since work done at PI
Hey Ron,
Just wanted to confirm what you already know - my
car's performance since leaving your shop is PHENOMENAL.
What a difference a day at Performing Imports made
for the drive - I was a fool before; I am a straight
idiot now. Not really, but the car's take off is
sooo much better; not the hesitation I was feeling
before.
Thank you very, very much,
Mechelle Isler
2000 528
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RE: M5
Bob Livingston
Gregory Electric
Lexington, South Carolina
Ronald:
I am very sorry I have not replied. I wanted to
find some time and describe how much I enjoy the
results of your work. Business and military duty
have pulled at me from all directions and you were
the easiest person to put off. Now for my impressions:
First off my impression of your operation: You have
the most professional automotive organization that
I have seen. You do what you say you will do and
on time. You deliver much more that expected. Your
knowledge of BMW's easily exceeds that of most BMW
dealers and even the factory people. The quality
of installation of the Dinan kit and the detector
was outstanding. I cannot compliment your group enough.
Second my impression of my M5. The ride home from
Atlanta was a gas. I used to think a regular M5 was
a thrill to drive until I drove my transformed M5.
The transformed M5 is to a regular M5 is to a 528.
That is saying a lot given the reviews of the stock
M5. The car is a rocket and is limited more by traction
than by power. I have had to learn to drive it all
over again and it has been a blast. The look and
sound impresses people but the performance is unreal.
All of this and a fuel mileage of 16mpg around town
and 22mpg on the road. Not too far off the original
mileage. I had a chance a month ago to drive an old
64 Chevrolet with a race engine. Even though it was
old, it was supposed to be the epitome of raw power
and speed. We had a good time but when we compared
its performance to my modified M5, the M5 was so
much more in power and speed that I was embarrassed
for the owner of the Chevrolet especially since he
is a close friend of mine. Handling was never an
issue, as the M5 was known to be superior but pure
power and speed at all levels was a shock to everyone.
The neat thing about my modified M5 is that it is
well behaved enough to use every day but it will
out run and out handle anything on the road except
for a pure racecar or an impractical exotic sports
car. It will even give the racecar and the exotic
sports car a run for their money. The handling is
as unreal as the power. I have had a standard M5
and my modified M5 on a skid pad, and again there
is no comparison. Needless to say, I am more than
pleased with the performance of my M5. I plan to
keep it even after the new M5 comes out. If I should
ever get a new M5, I will certainly want you to do
your magic again.
Thank you,
Bob Livingston
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Nickolas N. Leach
Atlanta, GA
Dear Ron,
After only a week driving my 2003 M3 with the Dinan "S2" upgrades,
the most important thing I can tell you is thank
you for a whole new driving experience. Of course,
I'm impressed with the specifics -- the quick and
amazingly linear throttle response, the tighter handling
and reduced understeer, and the much throatier ("tinny" just
never grew on me) exhaust note. All of these things
are exactly what I had hoped for when we discussed
the modifications before installation. But what I
couldn't fully comprehend beforehand was the feeling
I'd get when all of those individual improvements
were put together. The sense that I've gotten a lot
closer to the full potential of my M3 is just awesome
and I couldn't be more pleased with the results of
your work.
Yours truly,
Nick
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To: Ronald Trochelman and Staff at Performing Imports
From: Sean P. Costello
You were absolutely right. The upgrades make this
a different car. It was great to begin with, but
the cold air intake, throttle body, exhaust and software
have turned what already was a terrific four-door "executive
express" into a rocket with a pitch perfect
exhaust note. The acceleration at any speed is immediate.
The shift points are just right. As for handling,
I frankly didn't believe the front strut tower brace
would make much of a difference except in hard driving.
I was wrong to doubt you. The brace has totally changed
the steering dynamic. The whole car feels tighter
in the corners, even those taken at a civilized speed.
I will be back soon for the full maintenance, and
within a few months, new tires (Michelins) and perhaps
a suspension upgrade.
You and your staff were a pleasure to deal with.
Thanks for knocking off the shipping charge without
even my having to ask.
One thing, though-- By my calculation, using the
latest Dinan Deck Lid Badge chart (page 8 of the
price/app guide online), I have 12 points, 2 more
than needed to get a deck lid badge. I was wrong
about the strut tower brace so maybe I'm wrong here,
but, if I am, please tell me where: Engine software
(2 points) + transmission software (1 point) + cold
air intake (2 points) + high flow throttle body (2
points) + free flow exhaust (3 points) + front strut
tower brace (2 points). That adds up to 12, right?
Maybe Dinan requires more than 12 now. Please give
me a call when you have a chance re this.
Again, thanks for the great work, courtesy and honesty.
Sean Costello
Atlanta, GA
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To: Ronald Trochelmann
From: Michael McInerney
Dear Ron and Chris,
Arriving for my first scheduled appointment on the
back of a tow truck, courtesy of a BMW Service Department's
radiator "repair", added enormous stress
to the beginning of our relationship. Ron's statement, "Michael,
everything will be all right!" was prophetic.
Let's start backwards. The ride home in my 2000
740i was sensational. We (I sat and watched) woke
up the beast, which dwarfed the performance the day
I bought her. A little Boxster made a bad decision
to cut in front of me and for the next 4 miles could
see nothing but kidney grilles in his rearview mirror,
and then got a very distant view of my backside.
The numerous Dinan upgrades/changes makes a significant
difference. I put my hand on the good book and say, "Whoa
Baby!" I am driving a new car for chump change
compared to buying a new car.
I have religiously had my car serviced by BMW dealerships.
After spending the day with Chris and seeing what
a real service entails I will not be returning to
a BMW dealership for service again. I was angry at
the dealership for the money spent and the lack of
protection provided to a significant asset. I was
a little peeved at myself for not knowing better.
The difference is I learned and will change, BMW
will continue to service expensive cars the same
way. As a consumer I wanted to believe Oil lasts
for 15,000 miles, and Transmission fluids are "Lifetime".
Fairy tales can come true, just not to you (me)!
Thanks for everything ! I'll see you in a few weeks
with my wife's car.
Sincerely,
Michael McInerney
Hartwell, Ga.
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To: Ronald Trochelmann
From: Andrew Shin
Hi Ron,
Thanks again for the excellent installation of the
Dinan S package and Escort SRX on my '00 M5.
The first weekend after the install, I had the opportunity
to take advantage of the performance upgrade driving
down to Fl. I was only able to take the car up to
120mph, but the sound of the Dinan CAI and exhaust
is absolutely incredible. Once I hit Fl, the Escort
SRX lit up like a Christmas tree. I love the custom
install of the detector....all my friends thought
it was standard on the M5.
Thanks again for the honest advice and professional
service by your staff. Next upgrade is the differential
and I'm sure you'll be doing the full S2 package
on my car soon.
Best regards,
Andrew
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Memo To: Ron Trochelemann, Performing Imports, Incorporated
From: Jim Firebaugh, Software Quality Assurance Lead,
Core Labs
Subject: Dinan Engine Upgrades on 1998 M3 Convertible
Dear Ron,
Thanks so much for the great work. The Dinan upgrades
are fantastic! The increase in power is exhilarating,
totally a pleasure. It is like driving a totally
different car. Such an improvement. I cant stop smiling.
After almost outrunning the F-22 on take-off last
week, the F-22 propulsion guys may have gotten a
little jealous. They may be calling you soon to see
what you can do for applying Dinan to the F-22 Engines.
Also, let me take the time to thank you and your
staff for the candid, reliable, technical advice
you all freely give out on proper troubleshooting,
maintenance, and care of my vehicle. The information
is invaluable, coming from such a knowledgeable and
reliable source. It is comforting to drive away from
your facility with confidence received from your
care and experience.
Thank you for enhancing the experience in owning
and operating a BMW.
Sincerely,
Jim Firebaugh
Core Labs SQA Lead Engineer
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From: Egan, Thomas
To: Ronald Trochelmann
Subject: 740 Dinan S2 upgrades
Hi Ron,
It has been two weeks since I picked up my 1998
740IL from your shop and I have been meaning to send
you a note to tell you how pleased I am with the
Dinan S2 package that you installed. I have had this
car since it was new and I always loved the car but
I also craved more power and better handling..........well
I got it.
I have noticed the following:
The car is MUCH quicker to 60 and beyond than before.
I have probably cut a full second off my 0-60 time.
I can even break loose those big P275-40R18s before
the traction control kicks in.
Responsiveness on the highway is incredible. Once
you get this big sedan rolling there are not many
cars that can run with it!
The throttle response is smoother and the transmission
shifts quicker and smoother.
The handling is awesome...I think the 740 can now
give my Porsche Boxster S a run for it's money in
the tight curves.
I did give up a small amount of ride quality with
the suspension package and 18 inch wheels however
I more than made up for it in the fun factor.
The biggest thrill I have had so far is going fender
to fender with a 2003 Mercedes S55 out of the GA400
tollgates before we both backed off at over 100MPH...we
are supposed to be mature responsible adults after
all!
I also wanted to thank you for the personalized
service I got from you and your team. It is great
to work with a small shop who has folks who really
care about these cars and really care whether their
clients are happy or not. You personalized service
and interest in getting my car right is something
that I have never gotten from a BMW dealer in my
11 years of owning 740s.
My experience at Performing Imports was everything
that you said it would be. You are a man of your
word and I appreciate your honesty and integrity
in a day when these qualities are hard to find !
Thanks Ron and the team at Performing Imports!
Tom
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From: Brian Ferguson
To: Ronald Trochelmann
Subject: My 330CI
Ron,
Several weeks ago you did some great work on my
2001 330 ci. I wanted to let you know how it all
worked out.
The cold air filter, larger throttle body, stage
3 chip software and new exhaust system made a huge
change in the acceleration and the response. The
car pushes through 5000 rpm with incredible ease
on every gear shift. It's hard for me to gage how
much quicker it is, but it feels like a big change.
But the real joy is in the new suspension. The stage
two suspension plus the front engine strut makes
it the most stable and fun ride I've ever had. I
haven't really found the limits of it yet - I'm still
getting used to it. It really is a different car,
and I've fallen in love with my B'mer all over again.
Thanks for the great job.
Brian Ferguson
Johnson City, Tennessee
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From: Michael Holmes
To: Ronald Trochelmann
Subject: my 2000 528I
Hi Ron,
Thanks a bunch – after spending all that money
on Dinan products, I then had to spend MORE on a
Valentine 1 radar detector coz the dang thing goes
too fast!!!
Seriously, I can’t quite comprehend the difference
your work made to my 2000 528i. It was a sweet ride
to start with, but I’d heard about Dinan and
was keen to add whatever I could. So, you threw on
the free flow exhaust and chipped the engine and
transmission. Sweet!!
Ah, but there’s always more. I was away for
a few weeks and had a friend bring her in for the
cold air intake and engine strut. Ohmigod. I could
not BELIEVE the transformation! The car’s a
rocket, the shift points are perfect, the exhaust
sounds like a V-8’s etc etc etc.
This car is magnificent. Great work guys. Great
work.
Cheers,
Michael Holmes
CNN International
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From: Neil D. Browning, D.M.D.
To: Ronald Trochelmann
Subject: Recent service
Dear Ron,
Just wanted to let you know that you guys did an
incredible job on my '99 M3. I had the long term
maintenance, Dinan CAI and stage II software installed.
Let me tell you, the car is a new machine. It is
really, really quick and it pulls like crazy. I can't
believe how good the car feels now. I'll definitely
be back pretty soon for some more Dinan horsepower!
Thanks for doing such a great job and for your professional
service.
Sincerely,
Neil D. Browning D.M.D.
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From: ERIK TOIVONEN
To: Ronald Trochelmann
Subject: The Enhancements to my 540
Ron,
Wanted to let you know the work you did to "Dinanize" my
540 has met my expectations. Not sure if any one
thing is more noticeable than another but as the
package, the engine software, the transmission software,
the cold air intake, and the exhaust not only makes
the car quicker and faster but it makes it sound
better (a touch more "throaty"). The two
most noticeable differences are, 1) the acceleration
while running in sport mode (it is great) and, 2)
the difference in the downshifting when slowing.
Thanks again to Performing Imports for the expert
advice and expert work - I am fully satisfied and
everyone that asks knows exactly who did the work
and where you are located.
Thanks,
Erik Toivonen
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Hey Ron,
Just wanted to add to your list of testimonials
and reiterate how much of a difference the Dinan
engine chip, transmission chip, and throttle body
makes to my 93 525i. The power is amazing and addictive.
When I left your shop, I did not want to go home.
I just wanted to keep driving or should I say, "blowing
past everyone" every chance I got. When you
told me to "redline" it for a while to
get it acclamated, I thought you were crazy because
I had never gotten anywhere near redline. It would
get to about 3500 rpm's before it shifted, but now,
I put it to the floor and it hits around 5500 rpm's
redlining through first gear, kicks into second and
redlines through that gear before rocking to third.
By this time, I'm at 80 mph! Just UNBELIEVABLE!
If you had told me that this would be the result,
I would have never believed it until experiencing
it for myself. Thanks again. I can't wait until the
spring kit comes in to round out the points for the
prestigious "Dinan 5" badge.
Once again, another satisfied customer.
Wm. Darin Russell
Duluth, Ga
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Hey Ron and Christian
Just wanted to get back to you on the work you did
to Dinanize my M3 last week.
Wow!!
When my law partner and I left your shop, I gave
him the keys to my car while I followed him in his
911. I could not keep up at low revs and could not
reel him in even once I got the Porsche wound up!
Anyway, that was enough foreplay. When I drove my
car home, I could not believe how smooth the engine
is, the pull at any point on the powerband, and the
precision of the handling.
Your work has re-kindled my love affair with my
M3.
My compliments and thanks.
Dan Zegura
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Dear Ron and Christian,
We just wanted to thank you for your excellent service
and expertise that you have provided us on our recent
visit with you. We have always performed the "scheduled
maintenance" at our local dealership and felt
that we maintained our BMW's well. You have truly
enlightened us! After our "Performing Imports
Scheduled Maintenance" and the addition of the
Dinan S package to our 1999 540i sport, you have
transformed our BMW into a high-performance luxury
sedan.
We can't wait to bring our 2000 323ci for it's "transformation".
It is certainly worth the three and 1/2 hour drive
for the quality service that you provide!
We also wanted to thank you for the extra services
that we didn't expect: arranging for our rental car,
and "working in" our 8-hour service to
save us another trip back to Atlanta. You are truly
committed to customer service!
Sincerely,
John and Andrea Lazaro
Lexington, SC
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Hi Ron,
Brilliant! It was just as you and Christian had
predicted. The new Michelin Pilot Sports have put
the car back on track and the full tune up has made
it go! From being a tired, 69k year (miles) old,
it is now a young zoomer. It is much perkier, it
will wheel spin even with computer control in the
wet, and will bounce the back wheels in the dry.
The torque curve is more interesting: Smooth up to
3k, a kick from 3 to 4k and then a further kick!
That 4k kick was not there before. Interesting.
It still rolls like an Irish drunk on a Saturday
night, however. I can say Irish 'cos I am one myself,
Irish that is. Seriously, I can't wait to get the
special suspension.
Question: Would it be more economical for me to
get the anti-sway bars, shocks and springs replaced
all at once, or does sit matter if I get them replaced
piecemeal? I am thinking of getting the anti-sway
bars replaced soon. What does the Dinan website mean
by labor units in terms of costs? $$ per unit of
labor? If so how much are yours?
All in all, I have decided to keep the car and hope
it goes for at least another 100k miles. I even cleaned
it thoroughly Saturday: leather, vinyls, wood, carpets
etc. Looks and acts like new again.
Many thanks to you all.
Phil Kennedy
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Dear Ron,
I just wanted to take a moment and say thank you
for your excellent service and advice. A few months
back you installed a Dinan air intake and software
upgrade on my 1999 323i. There was a noticeable
improvement in both driveability, and gas mileage.
Well the gas savings didn't kick in until after
the first month of having fun with the new found
power.
Recently I had the chance to drive a 2003 325 for
a day, and I have to say I honestly like my car better.
I feel I have noticeably better performance over
stock in my car.
Just wanted to give you some feedback and say thank
you.
Kind regards,
Kenneth T. Letsch, Esq.
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Good Monday Morning Ron,
Sorry it's taken me two weeks to respond. I've been
busy at work and with travel it was a week before
I really had the opportunity to "drive" the
X5. But in any event it's a positive response….It
is awesome. I had to get back into my 540 for a short
drive to appreciate the improvement / difference.
I love the "growl" of the CAI system. I
am extremely pleased with the quality and precision
in which Performing Imports did the work. Everything
was installed as discussed in a timely professional
manner. No question I'll be back ! As a mater of
fact two OEM items I did want to discuss with you.
The Blue tooth communications kit and the stainless
running boards. Do you have access to these ? And
if so an approximate cost ? I can provide the Part
Numbers if you need them.
Have a good day Ron.
Best Regards,
Larry
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Ron,
Just a note to say thanks again for the continuing
good service on my BMW 740iL. It is nice to know
that I have people like you and your technicians
who take as good care of my car as they do of their
own. And I am very appreciative of your returning
my car in a freshly washed condition since it sat
out in the pollen while I went out of town for a
few days when you were servicing it.
Tell your folks thanks again for the great service.
I hope I can send some business your way. I know
they will be well taken care of.
Bill Via
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From: Steve Olson
To: Ron Trochelmann
Subject:Thank you!
Dear Ron & Christain,
I just wanted to send you a thank you note on the
great work you did on my 97 BMW 528i. I was concerned
about some work that another shop did and you checked
their work with no problem. In the little time I've
had owning my car, Performing Imports is the place
to go for service and advice. You guys really know
BMW's. I'm going to always recommend you to my friends
and family. Thanks again for the great work! See
you in 3 months for next oil change.
Steve D. Olson
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From: Philip S. Guy Jr.
To: Ron Trochelmann
Subject: Dinan performance
Ron,
I just wanted to email you, and thank you for all
of your help with the Dinan products you sold and
installed for me. After the full body throttle, cold
air intake, stage 3 engine software and exhaust my
330Ci feels like a completely different car. I am
very impressed with the performance increase of my
car and I owe it all to you. If it wasnt for you
I would have purchased an exhaust system that would
of made my BMW worth nothing. Thanks again for all
your help and if any new products come out for my
330Ci please email me.
Sincerely,
Philip S. Guy Jr.
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Performing Imports, Inc
1240 Alpharetta Street, Suite A-3
Roswell, GA 30075
Attn: Ron Trochelmann
Ron,
I wanted to take the time to drop you a note thanking
you for the work you recently performed on my BMW
740I. Your advice and expertise was greatly appreciated
in helping me decide on the appropriate modifications
to my first BMW. I've had the pleasure of owning
other high-end sports cars and I've had positive
experiences with some repair shops, but I've never
had the pleasure and confidence of both at the the
same time. The quality of your installation and the
quality of the Dinan products were first rate. Your
assessment of what I could expect once the modifications
were made was right on the money. As you promised,
the modifications really brought my 740I to life.
It's essentially a different car! The Dinan modifications
(performance software for engine and transmission,
cold air intake, high flow airflow meter and free
flow exhaust) really make the engine scream. The
acceleration is better than I imagined and I'm looking
forward to receiving and displaying by Dinan 7 badge.
I would definitely recommend these modifications
to other BMW owners, as I would also recommend your
services to perform the modifications. I can't imagine
anyone going to a large impersonal dealer when they
could get your expertise and professionalism with
one-on-one advice for the same or less money.
Thanks again,
Van Green
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Performing Imports, Inc
1240 Alpharetta Street, Suite A-3 Roswell, GA 30075
Attn: Ron Trochelmann
Ron,
I wanted to take the time to drop you a note thanking
you for the work which you recently performed on
my 2000 BMW M Roadster. Your advice and expertise
was greatly appreciated in helping me decide on the
appropriate modifications to my beloved roadster.
The quality of your installation and the quality
of the Dinan products were first rate. Your assessment
of what I could expect once the modifications were
made was right on the money. As you promised, the
modifications really brought the roadster to life.
It's essentially a different car! The engine modifications
(cold air intake, mass airflow meter, throttle body,
stage 4 EMS, and exhaust) really make the engine
scream. Throttle response is awesome. The stage 2
suspension makes the car feel incredibly balanced
in the turns. I would definitely recommend these
modifications to other M Roadster owners, as I would
also recommend your services to perform the modifications.
Thanks again,
Michael Johnson
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MARK&MICHELE CALDWELL
Woodstock, GA 30189
Mr. Ron Trochelmann
Performing Imports
1240 Alpharetta St.
Roswell, GA 30075-3702
RE: 1998 Dinan 7 (75OiL)
1999 Dinan M Roadster
Ron,
It's been roughly a month now since you completed
the Dinan work on both of our BMW'S. What a difference!
Your knowledge and professionalism are greatly appreciated.
When you spend so much hard-earned money on a vehicle,
you want to make sure it gets the best care-I couldn't
be happier with you and Performing Imports.
I would be happy to speak with any of your perspective
clients, and let them know what a change we've seen
in the performance of our vehicles In the meantime
I wish you the absolute best.
Respectfully,
Mark Caldwell
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Mr. Ron Trocheimann
Performing Imports
1240 Alpharetta Street
Roswell, Georgia 30075
Dear Ron:
I wanted to send you a note to let you know that
I love what you did to my 325 convertible. The Dinan
Stage 2 suspension and front shock tower brace that
you installed has completely changed my driving experience.
The steering is much more crisp and I can comfortably
carry much higher speeds throughout the turn. This
is all that I hoped for when I selected the Dinan
system. What was a total surprise is that the ride
quality and comfort greatly improved as well.
Thank you,
Ed Daihl
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Subi: Another Satisfied BMW Junkie!
From: Tom Kurtz
To: info@performingimports.com
Ron, can't thank you enough for transforming my
2001 33OCi, from an already fine car, to and "M
like" rocket!
With your perfect installation of the Dinan software,
cold air intake, free flow exhaust coupled with the
front strut brace, awwwwwesome!
Believe me when more Dinan goodies become available
I'll be back to the Trochelmann laboratory!
See you at the next oil change maestro!
Better get that radar detector like you suggested.
Tom Kurtz
Atlanta, GA
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ODED ZYSSMAN
Norcross, GA 30092
Performing Imports
1240 Alpharetta Street
Roswell, GA 30075
Dear Ron,
At times like ours, where customer service, professionalism
and ethics sound like foreign terms, you embody these
terms fully.
The work that you have performed on '01 BMW 740I
has transformed it from a great stock car to a great
street driving machine.
We used Dinan software and parts exclusively, and
the results are just terrific. The car is more responsive,
fun to drive and is now a true "ultimate driving
machine"
It was you, who in my opinion made the difference.
Your attention to detail, your vast knowledge of
cars and reliability have made my work experience
with you such a delight.
I honestly believe that Mr. Dinan should consider
you the true and sole representative of his mark
here in the Atlanta area. I just can't imagine any
of the two Dinan dealers taking care of their customers
in the same friendly and courteous manner you treat
yours.
Sincerely,
Oded Zyssman
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Ron,
Thanks for bringing my '98 528i back from the dead.
Before I brought her into you it had only been serviced
by the dealer (allegedly) and was very sluggish.
A major service and a Dinan engine software upgrade
made all the difference! When I first touched the
gas the tires squealed, traction control kicked in,
and I was on my way.
UDAMAN!
Bob Kurtz
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Ron,
I wanted to drop you a note and tell you how pleased
I am with the Dinan gear you installed on my 2000
540i. Not only is the performance increase spectacular,
the overall mileage I get has gone up too! Especially
on long trips! I look forward to adding the necessary
components in the future to get the Dinan5 symbol!
You and Christian are the bomb! Keep up the great
work at Performing Imports!
Regards,
Todd McNeal
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Ron and Christian,
Just wanted to drop you a note and tell you how
pleased I am to have found Performing Imports. Its
always refreshing to find people who know so much
about BMWs, and are willing to spend the time and
share their knowledge. Though, it means nothing if
the quality of workmanship is lacking. That being
said, Christians attention to detail, Ron's thoughtful
walk-through and the overall knowledge shown by both
is second to none (I watched, literally, and learned
the whole time while my Dinan products we installed).
Keep up the great work!
JR Cottingham
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Ron,
Nice face-lift on the web site. Anyway, thanks again
for keeping my 1997 540i running better than it ever
has. As you know, I just had the full service tune-up
at 80,000 miles and the car feels like the day I
bought it. Sometimes people might question whether
it’s really worth it to spend the money for
preventative maintenance. Of course it is, but what
is amazing is the noticeable difference in the cars
performance before and after the tune up. It’s
like the difference between a 100 MHz Pentium II
computer running Windows XP vs a new Pentium 4 2.2
GHz running Windows XP. That smile on my face every
time I hit the accelerator is worth the money alone.
Sincerely,
Chris Lins
Jenny Pruitt & Associates, Realtors
North Fulton Office
3875 Mansell Road, Suite 150
Alpharetta, GA 30022
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