TMIC! need help deciding on which one

[H3br3w_Ham3r]

Looking to get an upgraded TMIC in the near future..... please tell me all you know about each option.

SU TMIC:
Fitment problems and I do not know the core size

ETS 3.25:
Best option

ETS 3.5:
Works with cars with upgraded motor mounts. Mine is upgraded but only a street bushing so idk if thats enough. Also is the larger volume better?

 

[derspi]

Seems to me there are a LOT of people having problems with their SU TMIC so I don't even know why you even bother to consider it unless you're a glutton for punishment.

For peace of mind, just get an ETS 3.25" and be done, never having to worry about fitment issues.

 

[Remspeed3]

ETS 3.25 like he^ said.....although you are running more boost with a k04..the 3.5 wouldn't hurt either if your willing to listen to it bang alittle bit.

 

[Circle9]

I had several issues with my SU TMIC, but I hear it was revised and the problems solved, not totally sure though.

 

[ericrapp]

I was able to adjust the ETS 3.5. with some shims once i found the rubbing points. I also had just a Corksport MM insert at that time. worked fine. if you are going for maximum flow it is the one to have. But you can stll heat soak her in the staging lanes. so if you are going to drag you should go Front mount. But i love my big honkin' ETS!

 

[LovinMyMS3]

SU mount to start and now a TRZ 90 in the rear and I never had a problem with the 3.5.

 

[H3br3w_Ham3r]

I was able to adjust the ETS 3.5. with some shims once i found the rubbing points. I also had just a Corksport MM insert at that time. worked fine. if you are going for maximum flow it is the one to have. But you can stll heat soak her in the staging lanes. so if you are going to drag you should go Front mount. But i love my big honkin' ETS!

I don't drag much but I do auto cross so staging lanes are much much shorter. I'm just worried the SU street bushing isn't enough for the 3.5 so I was hoping for some input.

 

[coyfish]

SU TMIC fitment issue is resolved. I drove over and picked mine up last saturday. Fits flawlessly.

Unless you go bigger turbo there is no need for a core as big as 3.5.

 

[H3br3w_Ham3r]

SU TMIC fitment issue is resolved. I drove over and picked mine up last saturday. Fits flawlessly.

Unless you go bigger turbo there is no need for a core as big as 3.5.

That's what I figured about the core size.

 

[LovinMyMS3]

Unless you go bigger turbo there is no need for a core as big as 3.5.

Based on what?

 

[coyfish]

Someone researched this on the forums with dyno / data. Had a 3.5 and a 3.25 and the end verdict was no point in getting the larger core unless you upgrade the turbo. Bigger isn't always better. I have read that in other places too.

Honestly both the SU and ETS are solid products. SU looks a bit nicer and with the new version fits slightly better than the ETS (have seen them both side by side). So you really can't go wrong either way. I wouldn't stress yourself out too much.

 

[MSP300]

have you considered getting FMIC????????????

 

[8.5MS3]

wheres the L/A option? (its still technically a top mount)

 

[ericrapp]

3.25 vs 3.5

That's what I figured about the core size.

I will also agree about this particular unit. The 3.5 was designed for a larger or more Extreme turbo. haha. larger end tanks and the ability to handle a LOT of boost. So for the stock, or even super stocked K4 the 3.25 is plenty. But do bear in mind that the 3.5 has more cooling surface with taller fins although you may not need that feature. I think that the ets makes a great product ( after working out a couple mounting bugs early on. ) Anything larger with a bit more flow than stock will help, that thing is just too small imo. May i mention absolutely and positively get a heavier gauge boost tubes!
My stockers got super soft from heat and would distort. it was ugly and caused fluctuating boost. They are garbage even at 18lbs. and while you are in there install tclamps for security. good luck! and happy boosting

 

[speedtwee]

i went fmic

 

[ericrapp]

i do not like to admit it but it is the best way to go.I prefered stealth initially but i am probably well past that.haha

 

[uoftguy]

I want to get a TMIC soon too. Will likely end up with an ETS, 3.25". The SU version 2 looks more solid in the tab construction but it also cost a little bit more.

Damn, I wish some one would start a GB!

 

[MSP300]

IMO i dont see the point of buying TMIC if you gonna spend 500 or 600 bux on the TMIC might as well add another 300-400 bux and buy a FMIC which is gonna give you more performance and better cooling

 

[coyfish]

IMO i dont see the point of buying TMIC if you gonna spend 500 or 600 bux on the TMIC might as well add another 300-400 bux and buy a FMIC which is gonna give you more performance and better cooling

Better cooling ?? I don't think it makes a difference on stock turbo. Both will perform the same when cool. The TMIC cools VERY fast and rarely heat soaks even in the florida heat. I have sat for 3 minutes in 90+ and gotten out to feel the IC. Still cool to place my hand on.

The FMIC is obviously the best option but the main issue is the install. For people holding on to warranty its just not worth the time. Only advantage I see for a FMIC is track applications . . . Even then you can add a spray kit to your TMIC for the same performance with faster spool up.

 

[uoftguy]

My mods are mild, and I want easy installation and uninstall in case of warranty issues. I want to stick with a stock tune instead of having to go to AP or SB which I've heard you have to do with an FMIC (true?).

Anyway, TMIC just seems like a better fit for my goals.

Agreed though, FMIC is better for performance from what I read. Wish it came from the factory with an FMIC.