MSP Upgrading

Elementality

Member
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2003.5 Mazdaspeed Protege
I've had my MSP for a good 6 months now and I've figured that it's about time that I looked into upgrading the performance. Forgive me if I ask any dumb questions but I'm still learning and hoping to get on the same level as most of you. My MSP is currently all stock and I'd like to upgrade my turbo to anywhere from 12 to 18 psi, depending on price of course. I know I would also like to get a front-mount intercooler and I'm sure that I will have to replace my cams but other than that I'm at a loss for words. So my question to all you pros and vets out there is what have you done to your MSP? What would you recommend for a Daily Driven MSP? I know there are other threads about this and I have read some of them but any input would be greatly appreciated!
 
Your right on finding a front mount. Look at the thread about ebay kits, great place to start. Cams I doubt you will need ever unless you go for some crazy build (I still haven't gotten that far). But with 12-18 psi start looking for rods/pistons as stock are super weak and like to run away, anything over stock boost. Look in to Split second as an fuel controller, they show up sometimes in the FS section. To get 15 psi you would need about $1500 for parts if your a smart shopper, plus labor to make sure the rods/pistons go in right. Good luck, this car is really fun while you have it running...
 
yeah def dont up the boost until you take the motor out and get it built. or buy you another block get it built and keep your car running. i got one cheap!!
def want to front mount it asap cause the stock cooler gets heat soaked pretty bad.
 
I think the max output of the stock turbo is around 15 psi, but I think most of us wouldn't suggest going over 10 psi unless you upgrade to forged internals (stock is 6-7 psi). With the proper supporting mods (see Jaleik's link) you could probably get away with 10-12 psi without built internals, but even that's a gamble and could cause your engine to pop. The bottom line is if you want more power out of this car, it's not as simple as turning up the boost (they're no DSM), you have to upgrade everything as a package otherwise things WILL break.
 
Thanks guys! All of this really did help. And as far as a budget goes, I don't really have one because I'll be making roughly $300 a week with my summer job so I'll just be eyeing things as I go. Thanks again for the help!
 
Thanks guys! All of this really did help. And as far as a budget goes, I don't really have one because I'll be making roughly $300 a week with my summer job so I'll just be eyeing things as I go. Thanks again for the help!

no offense but you better start saving if thats your income unless thats just play money. Just keep in mind. You get what you pay for with these cars.
 
None taken. But yes, most of it is play money.
Most of that $300 is "play money"? Thats discouraging. I run 11-12lb. most of the time on stock internals- No problem here. Though, I'm currently in the middle of rebuilding one of my motors (yes, one of my motors- it's good to have extras) because I spun a main bearing due to oil starvation. Once the new engine goes in, another is getting forged because it will only be so long before the car eats another engine.
 
If you make $300 a week, you should save every dime you can. If you break your LSD, transmission or motor, do you have any idea how long it is going to take you to recover? Cars break, s*** happens.

Take care of your car, but save your money for emergencies. Also, get decent insurance.
 
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