"chipped" '87 5ktqa

[Michael Pshenishny]

Most likely sounds like a zener diode and resistor mod "chip".  These
basically fool the ECU into thinking its operating with normal boost by
clamping the voltage the ECU sees to determine boost levels.  Some
people have run them without problems, others burn holes in the piston
from running lean (remember the ECU 'thinks' its running stock boost
levels).  A properly done chip will modify fuel maps and timing to
accomodate the higher boost as well as move fuel pump cutoff higher.
The stock gauge will also show the correct new boost pressures on a
proper chip.
The tell-tale sign that it is a ZD-R mod is that the gauge still only
shows 1.4 bar max, because that is the voltage the ECU is being supplied
with.
Ask the PO who the car was chipped by.  Total Audi Performance (TAP) is
generally recognized as supplying the ZD-R combo as are some others,
(SuperChips comes to mind) while SJM Autotechnik, Intended Acceleration,
and the QLCC variations would be proper chips.
I'd bet the only thing wrong with your car is the chip...

Mike Pshenishny
'87 5ktq
'87.5 CGT


John Cassidy wrote:
> The PO claimed the car was "chipped".  I tend to believe him, as this thing
> has more torque and feels faster than my stock '91 200 20V sedan, all
> though it's a little peaky.  Thing is, it only shows 1.4 bar max, which I
> understand is normal for a stock car.  Wouldn't a chipped car show more
> boost, or is something wrong with the guage?  Should I go in search of the
> oh so elusive vacuum leak?