Newb, need advice

[Mazdaspeed_2003]

Alright guys, well I picked up a Mazdaspeed Protege for 5k, it has 99k miles on it and it's laser blue. I haven't done anything to it, and on top of that it's winter time. I've had some maintenance done to it just because its running high in mileage and etc. Anyways I have about 2000$ of money to spend on it and I don't know where to start. Any suggestions?

 

[tweety2300]

First thing is timing belt

Ssafc
Fmic
Exhaust
Intake
Kldet swap
Mfactory diff

Or a beater better suited for daily

 

[KrayzieFox]

I would definitely suggest you direct some of that money towards proper maintenance before starting to mod. A timing belt change is a good place to start, they should be replaced around 100K miles, but the obvious fluids and filters shouldn't be overlooked either. Replacing the vacuum lines with higher quality silicone ones is also a good idea, as vacuum leaks tend to haunt these engines and cause random sporadic issues. Replacing or at least cleaning the EGR valve would also be a good idea, especially since you live in the rust belt.

Also, try posting some pics for us. Include the engine bay and an interior shot, and we can probably give you better advice.

 

[Mazdaspeed_2003]

alright, well i already replaced the timing belt, i replaced the egr valve, airflow meter, and some other things. Maintenance wise I think I'm fine. i had my mechanic run everything to maintain it well and I'm confident that he did a good job. I'll try posting a picture soon

 

[KrayzieFox]

Well in that case, start modding away!

The suggestions tweety gave are a pretty spot on starting point (except the KL-DET swap lol). I would recommend you keep tabs on the FS section, lots of great parts come up for sale so you can save yourself a lot of money by buying from other members

 

[im2bad4ya]

I'd suggest a boost gauge and wideband O2 sensor first. Before doing any type of mods you're gonna want those gauges for trouble shooting purposes (it's not like the ECU throws codes for turbo related problems, those gauges are your friends!). Then I'd get a CAI if you don't already have one. Get polyurethane exhaust hangers whether or not you want to upgrade your exhaust or keep that stock. If you get an FMIC and relocate the MAF to the cold pipe, then you can hold off on the SSAFC towards other parts and goodies.

 

[DiscreetSpeed]

^ agree with the boost gauge and a wideband to be first. Then i would suggest a method of tuning it.. afc or whatever you choose. With a nice tune i bet youll enjoy the car more in its stock state. After those go ahead and mod away. Basics mods to start intake, exhaust, fmic, motor mounts, shifter.

 

[Mazdaspeed_2003]

Where exactly is the FS section? Im new to the forum so im kind of lost on where to look...

 

[KrayzieFox]

http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?360-Protege-P5-MSP-amp-MP3-For-Sale