Howdy from Texas,

I am really getting the bug for performance mods, and I have no idea where to start. I am new to working on cars, other than changing the oil/filter, replacing brake pads and turning the rotors. Until now I thought there were no performance mods for the 12v engine, so I've just been content and played around with the idea of selling my car and buying a 1.8t. But this forum has opened my eyes to the possibilities. The problem is, I don't know where to start, and what I'd be able to do on my own, and who is currently selling the parts needed to make these mods. What do you experienced guys suggest? Where should I start? I am on a budget, as I don't make as much as when I bought the car. But I really love my car and I'd just like it to go a little faster, with slightly better handling. As far as handling goes I've got the idea that a neuspeed sway bar might be the place to start. As far as the engine mods, I have no idea where to start, or what is going to be the best thing to do for the car first. Thanks for any help you can give me.

Charley

The first place to click on is the Abnormally Aspirated logo at the top right of your screen.

As far as mods that are sold on his site. I would start with the velocity stack and bored out MAF housing. After that, get the Stage 3 throttle body and stage 3 silicone hose kit. Mance (owner of said company, screenname UrS4), has also started offering gun bored cams and lightened lifters.

He sells many things, not listed on his website. (electric fan kit, snub mounts, etc.) If you wish to learn more about it, search this forum for UrS4.

For the budget minded, Mance has been doing a intake manifold port and pollish follow along how-to. If you scroll down and click on one of Mr. D's posts, he has a link in his signature to it and other things of interest.

I am truly a newbie, so sorry if this question sounds stupid.

Charley

I'm sure you can get greater improvements by upgrading your wheels and tires and your springs and shocks.

Over the years, abnormally aspirated has had different versions of bored out maf housings. Stage 3 is the most recent if I recall correctly.

<ul><li><a href="http://www.abnormallyaspirated.com/">http://www.abnormallyaspirated.com/</a</li></ul>

OK, so maybe some ET35 17s, neuspeed/bilstein shocks and eibach springs? Any recommendations on tires? Price is an obstacle for me.

Charley

Thanks!

<center><img src="http://www.tirerack.com/images/tires/kumho/ku_712.jpg"></center><p>

Size 225/45/17. They are Summer tires, though. Not sure where you live in Texas if that would be a problem.

They did great at the Auto-X and are supposed to do well in the rain, too, although I haven't driven in the rain, yet.

they held up really well at the glen when I used them last week... They didnt' even get TOO oily on me... just a lil.

The Stage 3 throttle body is no longer offered since the XTB is better AND cheaper. I would also recommend the AA snub mount be among the first round of mods.

Me of all people should know that, as I have an Sxtb!

I just had to replace 2 225/18/40 for $460 Cdn!

What's an XTB? X Throttle Body? Is it still through Abnormally Aspirated? Is the increase in the vibrations so much that i would need to add an aftermarket snub mount?

Thanks
Charley

No increases in vibration. The snub mount is not corrective for new problems, it facilitates a better transmission of power to the wheels by stiffening up the drivetrain slack.

so, here's the other inevitable question.. has anyone had these mods tested on a dyno... The information seems to be here and there in the post archives, but i still haven't seen a post that fully explains everything powerwise... Maybe i just need to dig deeper..

you need to search the archives. I remember the first time I asked that question! HP isn't a very indicator of power. There has been some pretty good explanations written, so do a little research. I will tell you that with the AA mods, it feels to be around 15-20 hp.

gains.

OK, you're right... A more fair question is, how have your 0-60 times improved, 1/4 mile?

Charley

Never bothered to measure that. I go by the "seat of the pants" scale. I would say it's not bad either. ;-)

Excellent.. Alright... well I guess I'll have to find out for myself.. ;-)