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On a Budget?
If you're looking to get the most out of your DSM on a budget, here's a short list of what you can do:
1. Free Mods - listed in Stage 1.
2. K&N Filter ($40).
3. Intake Pipe ($29 - Phantom Roadworks).
4. Boost Gauge (VDO, SPI, or Autometer - $45-$60).
5. Manual Boost Controller ($60 - Joe P style).
6. Aluminized Cat-back Exhaust ($240-$350 - Turbotrix, Phantom Roadworks, AHP)
so far: $450...
still got money left?
7. Straight Pipe (replaces cat converter - $35 - AHP, Phantom Roadworks)
8. Aluminized Downpipe ($130 - Phantom Roadworks)
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Tuning Guide : 2G Turbo DSM
The 2G turbo DSM owners have it good. The aftermarket for these cars is enormous compared to the 1G cars.
The near-bullet proof 4G63 motor is almost exactly the same as the previous generation, yet base
horsepower is upped to 210hp from the factory. A reliable 400whp can be squeezed out of the stock
internals with mere bolt-on upgrades - not bad for a 4 cylinder. DO NOT start modding your car without doing the necessary maintenance first.
The first thing you need to do is a complete tune up. Replace all worn belts, including the timing belt and balance shaft belt. If the timing belt/balance shaft belt haven't been replaced within the last 60k miles, or you're not sure when they were last changed - change them now. If they break, you'll be paying for a rebuilt cylinder head (not cheap). You'll also want to change out all filters, fluids, worn hoses, spark plugs/wires, worn/leaking gaskets, check the compression, do a leak-down test, check your ignition timing, etc. Basically, do all of the checks that your repair manual tells you to do - you do have a repair manual already, don't you? If not, pick one up now before moving forward with any modifications.
Once you've gotten all of the necessary maintenance out of the way, you can start with the modifications! We've broken it down into two simple stages to help you achieve your goals gradually. These formulas are used by the top DSM tuning shops/racers in the industry. Before you start shopping for big turbos and tubular headers, read our article on the common mistakes and misconceptions by newbie DSMers, and read the staged upgrade paths below. A couple things to keep in mind when you start modding:
There is no "best" part when it comes to modding. They usually all perform well.
Find out the emissions requirements in your area before choosing parts.
Plan your goals and budget before buying any parts. No plan = more money later.
Be realistic with those goals and plans. What will your car be used for?
Do your research before you buy parts - make sure the parts you buy will work together well.
Usable power under the curve is important, not just big overall horsepower numbers.
Work within your budget.
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Upgrade Paths |
Stage 0: Free Mods
For the cheap bastards who can't afford the bolt-ons and just want a little more "umph".
Read the list of mods...
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Stage 1: 275-300hp
Ready to get your hands dirty? The first steps to making power with the 95-99 turbocharged DSM is to turn up the boost and open up the air intake and exhaust restrictions, as well as swap out that tiny turbo for something with some bite. A typical Stage 1 setup will cost around $3500 for parts - exact cost can vary greatly, especially
if you're able to find deals on used parts. Of course, if you decide you only want the top-of-the-line,
you could spend significantly more. As always, determine your budget first and find the areas where you can
save money. A Stage 1 setup will raise power output on a DSM to about 300hp.
A 2G
Stage 1 setup will cost more than a 1G Stage 1 setup due to the need for a turbo upgrade. The 2G cars
come with a smaller factory turbo than the 90-94 cars, and will need to be replaced with a larger unit to create the
power needed for Stage 1 performance.
Mid 13's or possibly high 12 second 1/4 mile times are possible at the track using 100+ octane fuel and assuming the car is in good working order. Of course, your driving skills should be above average. We suggest you find a local track and practice as much as you can.
Read the list of parts needed...
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Stage 2: 350-400hp
A Stage 2 setup differs from Stage 1 in a few ways. For example, you will need to upgrade your
intercooler, which means the Upper Intercooler Pipe upgrade in Stage 1 will likely not be
necessary. Also, you'll be more focused on fuel tuning than bolting on parts at this stage. Your ability to tune your car is critical to reach the 400hp mark. Stage 2 will likely cost about $5000 for parts alone, assuming that you haven't performed
any of the Stage 1 modifications. Of course, you may be able to save money by finding used parts.
A Stage 2 setup will raise power output on a 2G car to nearly 400hp.
That can equal mid 12's or possibly high 11 second 1/4 mile times at the track depending on how well the car is tuned and driver skill level.
Read the list of parts needed...
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