Good first steps like dsmtuners suggests?

[kalilay]

im new to dsm's and performance cars generally, but am interested in learning and have a 1990 laser rs (fwd turbo as im sure most of you know)...any how ive been looking at a lot of stuff on this site and am curious if anyhow has actually followed this step for step and how they like what they have afterwards...basically everything is stock except for a cobalt autometer boost gauge which was graciously given to me....thanks for the help!

http://dsmtuners.com/sub.php?page=1gtstage1power

 

[drivemusicnow]

I don't personally know of anyone that has followed that word for word, but everyone who knows what they are talking about can look at that and see how each and every "Step" is crucial to a good car. However, some steps may be out of order, depending on your current car.

Of course, the FIRST step is always going to be taking care of basic maintenence. I'm not sure how much you have saved up for this project, but I would spend a decent chunk o change on the basics, which I consider:

Check/replace all vacuum lines
Replace all fluids (oil, coolant, gearbox oil/ATF, diff gear lube)
Check the timing belt, and if there is any question how old it is, or about it's condition, replace it.
Boost leak test
Compression test
Leak down test

This will ensure that you have the best platform to start from, as well as giving you a good idea of how strong the engine is. After you've done those things, I would suggest going through the guide step by step. The only thing that sticks out to me as something that, depending on your car, you might not need would be:
Step 7, the manifold... Some peoples stock 1g manifolds are fine, Some aren't.

GOALS:
This is key. Some of those things on the list, such as fuel pumps, exhaust, and intercooler piping can be limiting factors if you decide to go "bigger/faster" later. You need to decide ahead of time what kind of power range you're going to be looking for, and build for that. No matter what, I would include some type of logging software, and some ability to tune the car.

Also, there are some things that seem to be missing from that guide such as, if you go with a fuel pump that is larger than the walbro 190LPH, it will require an Adjustable fuel pressure regulater.

In the end, I would post about modifications you're about to do if you're going through with this by yourself (as apposed to with friends that have already been there). This will draw out pointers and tips on how to do the modification, as well as if you're forgetting anything that goes along with it. Don't rely on this forum as the only source of information. Read the VFaq, the tech articles, and shop manual on any system you are modifying.

 

[twocanewayne]

Like he said do ALL the basic stuff FIRST, or youll wish you did when the timing belt goes. then figure out your goals.