[s-cars] VMAP question for Feico or Steve

[Steve Eiche]

Dave,
I assume that the Steve that you are referring to is me. 

As to benefits of the VMAP, this is how I see it.  First off, for the 
same price or less than the NLA Bosch sensors, you get a precision, 
direct replacement for the stock 2.5 bar (Bosch 0 273 003 210) or 3.0 
bar (Bosch 0 273 003 211) sensor in one package.  Second, the sensor is 
adjustable in .1 bar increments from a stock 2.5 bar to an insane 4.0 
bar range, with selectable emulation of Bosch or ideal sensors.  While 
in 95%+ of the cases people will not utilize the full capabilities 
possible with this sensor it is nice to have it.  Third, for the 5% that 
do take maximum advantage, it offers features that are not possible with 
any other product.  This includes features like, first gear boost 
reduction (to save those narrow geared early 01E transmissions), 
selectable boost levels (In one case this is used on an S2 rally car for 
use with race and pump gas for transitions, varying altitudes, etc.), 
and more.  Fourth, as an Electronics Engineer, I appreciate and respect 
the engineering that Feico put into producing the VMAP.  His attention 
to detail in making it a precise automotive instrument is very 
impressive. This makes me trust it more than a modified Bosch sensor or 
even a stock Bosch sensor.  This is important to me.  Feico has put real 
craftsmanship and pride into the design and production of the VMAP, like 
going to the trouble of putting a microprocessor in the sensor to 
precisely mimic the Bosch and ideal sensors. This type of attention to 
detail is rare. IMO, he has every right to defend his product from 
anyone who tries to cut it down. 

So, back to your question.  Why would _you_ want a VMAP when you likely 
will never see it or know exactly what it is doing?  Three reasons as I 
see it.  First, for a comparable cost to the Bosch sensor, why not?  
Second you can "upgrade" software or tweak boost levels without changing 
the pressure transducer.  Third, if it dies, like the two 3 bar Bosch 
sensors that I have sitting here, I am betting Feico will take care of 
you.  Do you get a warranty with an expensive NLA Bosch sensor?  Ask the 
two guys who bought VMAPs when their 3 bar Bosch sensors failed.  Do 
note that I am NOT saying that the Bosch sensors are bad, or fail 
often.  EVERY complex electronic component can fail, including a VMAP. 

In the end, whether you get a Bosch sensor with your ECU upgrade or a 
VMAP, from Ned, Mihnea, Bob, me or whomover, what really matters in the 
end is that you are satisfied with service that you received, the 
performance of your car, and the value for the money you spent.

Steve



Is the VMAP of any benefit if one is not going to upgrade the turbo,
i.e. just a Stage I (50 hp type) mod?  I like the idea of the VMAP but
can't tell if there is any benefit without a bigger turbo.  On the other
hand, is it like Ned's Stage III + (with the 3.0 bar (NLA) transducer)
in that you can push things a little harder than 50 hp?

Dave F.