MP3 ECU just orderd.

[flat_black]

I've got a spare P5 ECU. =) My MP3 one is currently in use. Or not in use, if you want to get technical. =P Stupid stuck caliper.

The reason I say the dyno isn't conclusive is that the ECU hasn't adapted yet if you just yank out the P5 ecu and throw in the MP3 one... After 500 miles, the MP3 ECU seemed to take a jump in performance.

 

[PR5Matt]

Just installed the ECU on my 11,000 mile P5 and it is a BIG improvement in drivability and revability. It idles better and runs smoother (the idle is around 900-950 now as I set it up higher with the old ECU but around 800-850 was as high as I could go and not affect drivability with the ECU being a b****). Power-wise, I felt a little loss down low until I disconnected the VTCS, then it was MUCH better. This HAS to be done for this ECU to give you want you want. With more miles it will get even better.

I am happy. Now I am going to try the extended reach plugs for more improvement.

 

[Reitrof]

PR5Matt,

What is required to disconnect the VTCS? Are you just disabling it or removing it?

Thanks

 

[ZoomThis]

I just got my ECU today. Looking forward to installing it this weekend (if I have time). PR5Matt...how did you disable the VTCS? Need to know....thanks in advance.

 

[PR5Matt]

I just got my ECU today. Looking forward to installing it this weekend (if I have time). PR5Matt...how did you disable the VTCS? Need to know....thanks in advance.

I just unhooked the vacuum line going to the actuator for now. Don't forget to plug off the open ends!

 

[ZoomThis]

I just unhooked the vacuum line going to the actuator for now. Don't forget to plug off the open ends!

Thanks for the info......tomorrow morning I make the next upgrade to my car

 

[ZoomThis]

Well, I got installed and took it for a drive. I will admit it is not a night and day difference, but it is noticeable change. First thing, the car idles smoothly at about 800-900 RPM. First and second seem to accelerate solidly throughtout the tach (a little more on the low-mid end). Also notice better throttle response while in 5th gear.

I am sure there really isn't any whp gain, but just having the car idle smoothly...it was worth it.

 

[flat_black]

Wait 'till it breaks in. You are using 93 octane, right? If not, then the ignition timing is probably retarded to Protege5 specs, so you wouldn't feel much of a difference.

The intake made the whole setup come together, though, IMO.

 

[ZoomThis]

yes, I am running 93....needed to filled up this morning anyways (running fumes). So I am looking forward to see how feels after the break-in. Next project is to rework the extra intake mani to really reap the benifits.

 

[PR5Matt]

Hey Flat!!!

Wait 'till it breaks in. You are using 93 octane, right? If not, then the ignition timing is probably retarded to Protege5 specs, so you wouldn't feel much of a difference.

The intake made the whole setup come together, though, IMO.

flat_black, is the head gasket size? I know that the intake is not. The reason I ask is that it is not a good I dea to have the mismatch on the intake side (bigger intake manifold ports vs the head) as it will block airflow and cause turbulance.

BTW, did you know that your WRX has a VTCS type system? There are eliminators out there for it.

Her is a pic of that shifter...

 

[flat_black]

Yeah, I've heard about that on the WRX, however, that guy is staying stock, more or less. =) The intake starts as being MUCH smaller than the intake port on the head. The head ports are a tiny bit smaller than the gasket, whereas the intake ports are a good half a centimeter on either side of the the intake manifold in from the edge of the gasket. Your manifold will have the gasket still adhered, as I figure it'll give you a good working outline to go for. To get it off, probably just spray some gasket remover on nice and thickly, then scrape it off, or buff it off with a rotary tool. =)

 

[PR5Matt]

Gets better and better!

After about 200mi of my normal agressive driving (when I go to work I don't shift out of 4th until 80mph) I must say that the car is MUCH smoother, revs better, and the cold starts and drivability is awesome. This is how the car should have always felt. This is an excellent mod no matter how much HP it gives you. Just the improvement in the feel of the car (smoother) is well worth it!