Hi Kev,
just got back from the first test drive. But before I review the performance, the fitting. Took me 1 hr 50 mins, but took my time, read instructions and was careful. usual Drama getting engine cover off, especially since mine is now split and araldited together!! The Turbo inlet hose wasn't too bad, I have a pair of slip joint pliers which were fine for gripping the hose clamp and squeezing it open, only problem was dropped them twice and burnt my wrist on the turbo retrieving them from the depths of the engine. Everything esle wnet as per the instructions. i did not have any silicone spray to help lubricate the hoses going onto the metal pipes, the do grip like limpets and lubrciation is vital, so I used WD40 which seemed fine (hope it doesn't kill the Maf). Otherwise everything went smoothly as per instructions. Top tip to rotate the aluminium pipe on the rhs of the engine to do up the bolt. The g60 filter doesn't half cram in behind the ns headlight, not a lot of room in there.
Once the ITG was on, I uploaded my stage 2 BF and went for a play. Weather is lashing with rain here in cotsolds so ideal for max turbo boost nice dense cold air, 10degC and roads empty (midnight for my test drive). The car with the ITG and stage 2 map has sooo much more power and pick up and torque than before, feels v fast, no fuel cut (yet) just lots of fast pick up linear power. The needle fly's round the dial. In normal driving you don't hear the ITG from inside, but when you press the load pedal firmly you get a gentle whoosing and slight whistle. Best way to describe it is to purse your lips gently and gently suck in, this is the sound you hear inside the car (with a faint high whistle added on max air draw). Not instrusive at all. i have a std DV fitted so no air dumping sound (which is good for me as I like the stock sound). The power is a big difference, I took it easy after I span the front wheels going into 5th at 70 on a slight incline, the roads are very wet but still suprised me with the amount of torque. Anyway time for bed now, will post further impressions 2moro as driving to london and back (200miles) so will get a good feel for it on fast xcountry and motorway driving. But so far, very very pleased. Final mod in a couple of weeks when I will be fitting the HPFP I have bought , I will get before and after dyno's done then, but at the moment spot on mod. (I also have a full miltek TBE on the car)
