Re: TAP vs IA, anyone have experience with Both?

[Gil Ceniceros <gil@west.net>]

Jeffrey J. Goggin wrote:
> they also weren't willing to discuss their mods in any detail

Here's $.02 worth on this subject,

I spoke to Ned at IA several times on the phone prior to having him
modify my ECU. He did seem to be busy, but was willing to explain the
performance improvement offered and how it was achieved (in general
terms).

He explained that the modification would re-program and advance the
ignition timing, replace the wastegate spring to reduce the time for
boost pressure build up and increase the maximum boost pressure limit,
while retaining the over speed and over boost protection functions of
the engine control system.

This was promised to improve throttle response and power output by an
impressive margin. The only disadvantage being that premium fuel is
required to avoid pre-ignition at full boost. Ned assured me that the
increased power would not cause drivetrain or engine wear problems, as
the Audi is way under stressed in stock form.

I would not expect him to share any detailed information as to which
components are replaced or re-programmed, since he had to figure it out,
and that's what he gets paid for.

Ned has a good reputation with Qlist members which certainly earned some
of my confidence prior to parting with $$$ for the work. 

The IA ECU mod. made a great improvement in performance for my car.
Under 2500 rpm there isn't much difference, but once the boost builds up
at around 3000 it really takes off and pulls strong right to the red
line. I can't accurately quantify the change, but the car is lots more
fun to drive now and MUCH FASTER!! Passing traffic or climbing hills in
3rd gear is quite entertaining. Even in 5th gear (3000rpm=78mph),
acceleration is impressive. Fuel consumption is 25-28 mpg on the
highway, about the same as before. I enjoy it, and feel that the mod. is
a good value.

I won't risk getting in trouble for running at very high speeds on
public roads in Ca. Just curious, does anyone know what is the top speed
of a 10v TQ Wagon before and after the basic IA mod?

Gil Ceniceros