Some basic questions...

[SCoRP]

Sup guys. This is my 2nd post, but I have already done a lot of reading and searching on here. I am the new (and proud) owner of a 99 GSX and I'm just trying to learn some of the basics of upgrading/tuning them. My other car is an 89 5.0 Mustang that I've had for 5 years and done a good bit of modding and racing with, so I do understand the ideas here, I just want to know more about the differences and new terminology with my new car.

First of all, since I already have a modded car for racing, I only want to do a few basic mods with my GSX. Basically I want to improve the response and open up the breathing a little bit (air filter, etc), as well as do some electronic tuning to make sure the engine is running as smoothly as possible (mainly for fuel efficiency and engine longevity).

I already did some research into the breathing issue and went ahead and ordered a DEJON CIP-2gSy intake pipe and the appropriate K&N air filter. Was this the right intake pipe? (ie, will it work well?) I ordered the one that "comes with all the hoses" if that makes any difference. Is is a pain in the arse to install or is it just a few bolts and screws like on most other cars? (ie, does the turbo cause any complications?) Anything else I should know about this mod?

Also, as far as the electronic tuning goes, I've read a lot on here about SAFC's and AFR's, but I'm still a little hazy as to what warrants the need for an AFR on these cars and how exactly the SAFC is connected (logistically) and what exactly can be done with it (does it both monitor and allow for editing of ECU values or is it just for editing?) Also, is this a mod that is mainly for the turbo dsm's or the NA dsm's?

Finally, as far as the whole NA/Turbo thing goes, it seems like a lot of posts here are for one or the other (obviously) but its not always clear to me which one. What are the types of mods that are only for Turbo's and vice versa and also what mods are good for both?

I know this is a lot of questions but it seems like most ppl here will be happy to answer them for me. I'm lookin forward to learning a lot here!

Thanks!

 

[Pitman99505]

The intake pipe you ordered was the right one. Since you are still running the stock t25, i hope that you got the intake with the 2 3/4" inlet. Install is not hard at all. Just make sure that you recirculate your BOV, so that your car will not bog, sputter or stall out.

Also, as far as the electronic tuning goes, I've read a lot on here about SAFC's and AFR's, but I'm still a little hazy as to what warrants the need for an AFR on these cars and how exactly the SAFC is connected (logistically) and what exactly can be done with it (does it both monitor and allow for editing of ECU values or is it just for editing?) Also, is this a mod that is mainly for the turbo dsm's or the NA dsm's?

AFR i am not sure what you are referring to, if you mean an AFPR (aftermarket fuel pressure regulator) you do not need one of those until you get a 255lph fuel pump, and that is if you decide you want to get into some heavy modding. Yes the SAFC will allow you to edit fuel trims off of your ECU so that you can get the right Air/Fuel mixture, but for monitoring your engine, you should defiantly get a pocketlogger. Since you have a 95+ vehicle your is OBDII. Basically it uses a Palm pilot and a sync cable that hooks to your obd port underneath the drivers dash. It will allow you to monitor your timing, fuel trims, o2 readings, since you have a 2g you will not be able to directly read knock. You will also be able to read and clear CEL's. Here take a look at this thread:
http://www.dsmtuner.com/forums/showthread.php?t=196001&highlight=2g+pocketlogger

For tuning purposes though you would be better off getting a wideband kit. It is very accurate and allows for more accurate tuning. If you have questions regarding parts, this site has an awesome parts catalog that is broken down into generations then parts. it is very helpful:
http://www.dsmtuners.com/parts/default.php

I would not so much be worried about tuning just yet, start with the basics and work your way up. A pocketlogger is always handy though no matter what stage you are at because it will allow you to see what is going on.

http://www.dsmtuners.com/tuning-guide/2gturbo/
this is a great guide for modding and gives you an idea of what steps to take in order to achieve your goals.

Hope all of this helps some, if i forgot anything i am sure someone else will help
Good Luck

 

[SCoRP]

Thanks pitman. Yeah, I did order the one with the 2 3/4" inlet. What do I need to do to recirculate the BOV? Do I just make sure that all the tubes/etc that are connected to the stock intake pipe are connected in the right place on the new one?

And yeah, I did mean AFPR. I was just wondering if that was needed to do even the basic tuning, but I guess that's only when you start adding a lot more fuel, so I'll hold off on that.

I'll read those links you gave me and decide which tuning tools I will want to use. I'd like to have as much control as possible, but also don't want a real difficult install for this either. Anyone have any more suggestions for the tuning tools?

Also, one other (new) question. What type of oil should I be using with the turbo? The Mitsubishi manual says (basically) to use 5W-30 on NA cars and 10W-30 on the turbo's. That's fine, and I understand why, but what about synthetics and blends? My motor has 58k on it and seems to be taken care of well (previous owner drove it like a grandma). Is it still within the period where I can ween it off natural and switch to full synthetic? If so, what synthetic weight should I be using?

Thanks!

 

[Pitman99505]

On the intake there is an appendage that sticks out at about 11 o'clock, it has a hose that is connected to the BOV. You will see the same appendage on the hard intake you just bought. it is very obvious. You have the turbo side, the air filter side, then there is the appendage that sticks out. Here you go I attached a picture for you.

 

[SCoRP]

Thanks for the pics Pitman. Looks like it will be piece of cake. I see you also have an aftermarket BOV and some intercooler tubing. Is the intercooler tubing just as easy or do you have to get to some hard-to-reach spots to install it? Would there be any point to doing that to a basically stock car (other than for aesthetic reasons)? Also, when is a BOV necessary? Is 1 or 2 more psi going to hurt the stock one?

Thanks again.

 

[Pitman99505]

...that is not my car sorry, just the first picture i found. No doing your UICP and LICP would be little further down the road after opening your exhaust. It is in the Stage 1 part of the upgrade guide. Follow it, it is a great guide. It is not a hard install. Just a little bit of your time. When ever you get a chance check out the tech guide . It will be very beneficial to you once you want to start doing things yourself to save yourself some money and have even more pride in your car.
Your stock BOV will not hold much more boost than stock levels. It is made of plastic so it will leak after about 12 psi. In this area you have several options.
1.) 1G BOV: i would highly reccomend this route. You could probably get one for $40 or less. ebay, on here, there are many places to get one. It will also allow you to recirculate. It will hold boost to about 17 psi. I do not see you exceeding that for a little while.
2.) Aftermarket BOV: If you have the money and want something a little more flashy, greddy type s or type rs....both have recirculation kits and so does the hks ssq.
Really it is your decision, but yes another BOV is absolutely necessary if you are planning on turning up the boost.