The Official "What Should I Spend Money On?" Thread [Merged 10-6]

[eclipseism]

Was wondering with the stuff i have already can i run a 16g turbo decent with 1100 bucks?

 

[PFXGSX]

Yes you should be able to. SBR has a full 2g kit with an Evo III 16G manifold, install kit and gaskets for a grand, turbochargers.com has the same thing for 700 bucks. If you don't get injectors and something to tune with keep your boost below 16 psi and u should be fine

SBR
http://www.slowboyracing.com/more.php?id=4939&

Turbochargers.com
http://www.turbochargers.com/store/product_info.php?cPath=23_48&products_id=186

 

[Jeff822]

http://www.extremepsi.com/store/customer/product.php?productid=16346&cat=269&page=1&veh=2G DSM

This is a good buy if you have some extra cash left so you can turn up the boost a little bit and actually feel what the turbo's got.

 

[TheRealist]

yes...........

 

[v8killar]

get a logger. it'll help.

 

[VicBoost]

http://www.extremepsi.com/store/customer/product.php?productid=16346&cat=269&page=1&veh=2G DSM

This is a good buy if you have some extra cash left so you can turn up the boost a little bit and actually feel what the turbo's got.

Wow thats a great find and a hell of a deal.... definately will buy when i get the 16g in

 

[TheRealist]

you can tune your car with an safc?

 

[guitarhero14]

you can tune your car with an safc?

That would be the whole point of the product. It is a fuel controller.

 

[eclipseism]

Ok guys i need expertise help here, im simi new to this stuff and will be needing help from experiance dsm'rs. I Would like to run a 16g, my goal is no more than 300 hp. What stuff would i need and be Sufficiant enough to run a 16g with no proplems and not hurting my car.

Mods Currently Have:
Full Dejon Hardpipe system to stock intercooler
1g Bov
Injen Intake
Hallman Pro MBC
Autometer Cobalt Boost Gauge.

Mods ill need is what ill apriciate guys. thanks! and please explain in detail what it means, like a Logger have no idea what that does or is, safc whats that do how does it work? just need some experiance dsm'rs to help me reach my goal and have a faster car.

All i want is a fast, Fun, Street Car, with a little juice and Cojones to it . Im not looking for all out performance and dont want to boost no more than 18psi. just a fun street car is my point.

I Have the funds just need to know what i need.

 

[SinaiTSi]

http://www.dsmtuners.com/sub.php?page=2gtupgrades

I assume you haven't read that yet. That will provide you with any information you need on how to reach your 300 hp goal, which is do-able with a 16g. Read through that link and then post some questions you may have after you see what you'll need to reach 300.

Your typical logger is usually a plam that lets you hook up to your car to give you data about how your car is running, knock being the most important thing to keep an eye on because it's what can destroy your engine. A SAFC is just one of the ways for you to tune the car through controlling the fuel. You'll need it once you get bigger injectors.

 

[Boost Demon]

Here is what I'd do, but this is only one take on what you could do :
Go here for your turbo(Evo III something turbo here ), manifold, and install kit:
http://www.turbochargers.com/store/...d=186&osCsid=429a2437e5982bbe34dd6db0e9be24d8

Go here for your fuel pump, fuel injectors, and S-AFCII (probably want to get the 680cc injector option):
http://www.extremepsi.com/store/customer/product.php?productid=16346&cat=458&page=1

So far your at about $1,274 (not counting shipping or install or the extra for the bigger injectors)

If you need an exhaust my buddy had no problem with the E-Bay Tsudo exhaust, like this one:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Tsud...2QQihZ013QQcategoryZ33630QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

est.$1,576

How about a FMIC and sell your hard pipes?:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/DSM-...6QQihZ015QQcategoryZ33742QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

est. $1,868.50
I would look at a Megan Racing down pipe With the rest or I would by a PDA off of E-Bay and go to pocketlogger.com and get the cables and software for tuning:
http://www.pocketlogger.com/?pid=plobdii
If you don't get the tuning stuff, then I would go to Home Depot or Lowes and make a boost leak tester, then prepare to start saving up for the logging software and stuff next along with a clutch/clutch fork&pivot ball/stainless steel clutch line/Pensoil Synchromesh/(optional: light weight Fidanza flywheel or something similar) because your stock clutch will probably not be to happy. Start tuning from 15psi and work your way up once you get the logging software (after a boost leak test has been done). With all that you should probably be able to get around 18psi safely or up to or past 20psi depending on your ability to tune and what injectors you have.

 

[Baton]

Here is what I'd do, but this is only one take on what you could do :
Go here for your turbo(Evo III something turbo here ), manifold, and install kit:
http://www.turbochargers.com/store/...d=186&osCsid=429a2437e5982bbe34dd6db0e9be24d8

Go here for your fuel pump, fuel injectors, and S-AFCII (probably want to get the 680cc injector option):
http://www.extremepsi.com/store/customer/product.php?productid=16346&cat=458&page=1

So far your at about $1,274 (not counting shipping or install or the extra for the bigger injectors)

If you need an exhaust my buddy had no problem with the E-Bay Tsudo exhaust, like this one:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Tsud...2QQihZ013QQcategoryZ33630QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

est.$1,576

How about a FMIC and sell your hard pipes?:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/DSM-...6QQihZ015QQcategoryZ33742QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

est. $1,868.50
I would look at a Megan Racing down pipe With the rest or I would by a PDA off of E-Bay and go to pocketlogger.com and get the cables and software for tuning:
http://www.pocketlogger.com/?pid=plobdii
If you don't get the tuning stuff, then I would go to Home Depot or Lowes and make a boost leak tester, then prepare to start saving up for the logging software and stuff next along with a clutch/clutch fork&pivot ball/stainless steel clutch line/Pensoil Synchromesh/(optional: light weight Fidanza flywheel or something similar) because your stock clutch will probably not be to happy. Start tuning from 15psi and work your way up once you get the logging software (after a boost leak test has been done). With all that you should probably be able to get around 18psi safely or up to or past 20psi depending on your ability to tune and what injectors you have.

He still needs an Adjustable Fuel Pressure Regulator with that Walbro 255 fuel pump.

Read through the upgrade path[http://www.dsmtuners.com/sub.php?page=2gtupgrades] as already suggested. Do some research on what parts are within your budget and maybe try to find some used in the classifieds. There's no cheap way to get 300hp unless you dont mind the car breaking frequently. But that's just my opinion.

 

[Splitpi]

Here's what I would buy... am buying ... slowly:

Fuel:
FPR + 255 Walbro Combo .... $275.00
http://www.importevolution.com/product_info.php?cPath=91&products_id=2373
100 psi Fuel Pressure Gauge .... $19.99
http://www.importevolution.com/product_info.php?products_id=3623

Injectors:
FIC 650cc ... $275.00
http://www.importevolution.com/product_info.php?cPath=24_39_118_173&products_id=111

Turbo:
MHI Evo 3 16G w/ installation kit and Manifold ... $699.00
http://www.turbochargers.com/store/product_info.php?cPath=23_48&products_id=186

Intercooler:
Dejon Tools, New 2G FMIC kit for 16G w/ 1G BOV flange .... $475
http://dsm.dejonpowerhouse.com/
Sell old IC hardpipes ... ~ -$150

Exhaust:
Dejon Tools, 3" Exhaust EXH-2gC ... $279.00
http://dsm.dejonpowerhouse.com/
Megan Downpipe w/Cat Eliminator ... $100.95 (can be found for $75 or less from time to time)
Check Ebay

Engine Management:
SAFC... $299.00
http://www.importevolution.com/product_info.php?cPath=27_76&products_id=57
Pocket Logger ... $125
http://www.pocketlogger.com/index.php?pid=pldsm


Total: $2397.94

I would recommend though that you consider a new clutch, and LSD and possibly a lightened flywheel.

Clutch + Flywheel = $566.98
http://www.importevolution.com/product_info.php?cPath=91&products_id=2605
SBR LSD = $188.99
http://www.slowboyracing.com/more.php?id=1241&

Grand Total: $3028.91

*** Note: This doesn't include shipping and handling or costs to modify/install the parts and incidentials that you need to get aswell. Also if you call shops they "MAY" be willing to haggle on either prices or shipping or both depending on how much you spend with them... its worth a shot. I just did quick searches, so you may be able to find prices cheaper elsewhere.

-----------------------------------------

Edit: Here's the order I would purchase if money is an issue and you wanted to phase it:

Phase 1:
FPR + 255 Walbro Combo .... $275.00
100 psi Fuel Pressure Gauge .... $19.99
FIC 650cc ... $275.00
SAFC... $299.00
Pocket Logger ... $125
Dejon Tools, 3" Exhaust EXH-2gC ... $279.00
Megan Downpipe w/Cat Eliminator ... $100.95
--- Total: $1373.94

Phase 2:
MHI Evo 3 16G w/ installation kit and Manifold ... $699.00
Dejon Tools, New 2G FMIC kit for 16G w/ 1G BOV flange .... $475
Sell old IC hardpipes ... ~ -$150
Clutch + Flywheel .... $566.98
SBR LSD = $188.99
---- Total: $1779.97

 

[Boost Demon]

Check the Extremepsi link again, you can choose the fuel pump you want . Lots of good ways to go about doing things though.

 

[VicBoost]

Edit: Here's the order I would purchase if money is an issue and you wanted to phase it:

Phase 1:
FPR + 255 Walbro Combo .... $275.00
100 psi Fuel Pressure Gauge .... $19.99
FIC 650cc ... $275.00
SAFC... $299.00
Pocket Logger ... $125
Dejon Tools, 3" Exhaust EXH-2gC ... $279.00
Megan Downpipe w/Cat Eliminator ... $100.95
--- Total: $1373.94

Phase 2:
MHI Evo 3 16G w/ installation kit and Manifold ... $699.00
Dejon Tools, New 2G FMIC kit for 16G w/ 1G BOV flange .... $475
Sell old IC hardpipes ... ~ -$150
Clutch + Flywheel .... $566.98
SBR LSD = $188.99
---- Total: $1779.97

Is it okay to do fuel upgrades before you even put the bigger turbo like wouldn't the car spray to much fuel then it already needs? If not that good advice.

 

[Splitpi]

Is it okay to do fuel upgrades before you even put the bigger turbo like wouldn't the car spray to much fuel then it already needs? If not that good advice.

Its ok on the sole event that he gets a means to control that fuel along with the fuel increases. The FPR to control the Walbro 255. The SAFC to control the Injectors. A logger to tune the SAFC. Plus, with the setup he can fine tune the current turbo and setup to get the most out of the car without endangering the motor before he moves on to phase 2 which is actually replacing the turbo and its supporting mods.

Ideally though he should spend the extra money and get DSMLink to fully control the fuel AND the ignition which the SAFC can't do as well of a job or as easly as. You figure ~$250 for the 95 Eprom ECU + ~$560 for DSMLink = $810. SAFC + Logger = $424.00. So the choice is up to the buyer on which route to go. Personally though, I choose DSMLink and will be getting the setup in a few weeks.

 

[mygsx2120]

i agree, i would definately look into dsmlink. i bought an safc and decided to go with link before i even installed the safc. For $600 it is definately a bargain. i read that version 3 was coming out soon, and they are adding all kinds of cool stuff. sorry i don't have more details about it, short term memory loss. but once i did my homework, i found many members say it was their best investment/mod. but if you decide to go with the safc II, i still have mine brand new in the box. it's black $200.00 plus shipping

 

[exiletalon]

I suggest finding several items used, you can find the majority of parts used- on this very site, Exhausts dont go bad, and fuel system items can be had cheaper used- with the money you save- GO DSMLINK!!!!- dont go SAFC, spend the $400~ then later on spend the $600 for the DSMlink, its almost an insignifant loss at that point!
you can also sell items, such as 2G exh man. T-25, SMIC, EXHAUST ( I would keep it, its hard to find one- and nearly garuntees a passed emmisions)- and there are other things that can be sold- plus you can go 300 on a 190, and rewire it later.- but DSMlink is the single best thing I did, and if you wanted more, you wont have to change your setup at all unless your going for more than 380WHP!!!!

 

[exiletalon]

splitpi, sorry to steal the forum, but I really like how you painted your front bumper, that is really sick lookin'

 

[Splitpi]

splitpi, sorry to steal the forum, but I really like how you painted your front bumper, that is really sick lookin'

Thanks, but I cannot claim that I thought of the idea. I copied another member of this forum who did it first. Now I'm just debating when I do get a FMIC should I go with a black color or the shinney metal... I'm leaning towards black. After the "paint a FMIC" thread, I feel I can get away with a VERY lite coat of paint on the front side of the FMIC. Also, I want to get a black chin lip for the car. I think that will really make the front complete and stand out.

http://www.dsmtuner.com/forums/showthread.php?t=225953&highlight=paint+front+black

 

[ttsrq]

All the "I have an extra $XXXX, what should I buy" threads will be merged here.

Ok so ive been doing some research and im currently deciding on what mods that I should get. I have a 1991 talon tsi awd with ABS and A/C. I want to be in the 300-350awhp range in a daily driver, running about 20-25psi on 94 octane. So heres a list of things that I think I need please feel free to add things even simply things such as a gasket or fan or anything like that!

2.5" turbo back exhaust(ive got already)
MBC(got already)
intake(got already
act 2600(got already)
act xact flywheel(got already)
EVO 3 Big 16g
255lph fp (or will 190 suffice)
Apexi Safc2
650cc injectors(or will 550 suffice)
extremepsi race fmic
j-pipe
slim line fans(do i need them? 1 or 2?)

thanks alot!

 

[blackbyrd]

Hey man, I'll give you my 3 cents. (and that's right, I said 3)

2.5" turbo back exhaust(ive got already), okay
MBC(got already), good
intake(got already, good, but what kind? I'd recommend hacking your mas, or replacing with 2g mas, then cutting open the box, and building a sheat metal heat shield box around the filter.
act 2600(got already), good
act xact flywheel(got already), right
EVO 3 Big 16g, Cool, make sure you port it, get a 34mm flapper
255lph fp (or will 190 suffice), 190 will suffice, if you go 255 you'll need an AFPR
Apexi Safc2, I would spend the extra 200, and get a DSMLink, it will actually let you tune your car.
650cc injectors(or will 550 suffice) 660 injectors to max out a EVO III and stay at a low duty cycle
extremepsi race fmic, a small FMIC will do good for the EVO, ebay style
j-pipe,? sure. get a 2g throttle body elbow why your at it, or just port/grind yours
slim line fans(do i need them? 1 or 2?) no your stock fans should flow just as good as any slimline.

more food for thought:
a 2g or EVO III(will require mod to downpipe) 02 Housing
a 2g/EVO III,SBR, or ebay Tubular exhaust manifold
Sheet metal intake/short runner, on ebay, if you want

Cant think of anything else off the top of my head, except
First if you just got this car you want to do a complete tune up/timing. Make sure everything is in working order/fix that first.
Second, With all that your goign to want some suspension mods.
Either lowering springs
shocks
swaybars
strut bars.

 

[ttsrq]

The intake is just hacked with the box taken off so its just the filter exposed screwed onto the maf, the lower honey comb is removed. I dont want dsm link because I can get the injectors,pump and safc2 for 500 and I dont want to get DSMlink cause im in canada and theres no place around here that sockets ecu's and the down time would be sooo bad. I said the jpipe because I need it to bolt up to the turbo and fmic cause its an big16g. I was also told that you need slim line fins in order to keep the A/C..I also did a complete tune up...replaced all fluids filters, changed the timing belt balance shaft belts and all of the other belts... rebuilt the entire transmission..

 

[1gjosh]

get the real deal exhuast manifold. no ebay garbage. my buddy had the ebay pacesetter manifold and it cracked within 400 miles.

 

[1gjosh]

by "real deal" i mean evo3 ported, 2g ported, or SBR.