hey guys. i am looking into getting the GIAC flashloader ECU upgrade for my local dealer. i know that this is the most bang for your buck upgrade for my car (2001 a4 1.8t). i had read on other forums that you also want to upgrade your diverter valve as well, b/c the stock one won't handle the increase in boost. any opinions on this? do i need to upgrade my DV as well? if so, what brand do you recommend? thanks!

 

I haven't tried the GIAC (lots of people like it) but I got the speedtuning stage 2 ecu tune for my car (same car as yours) and it rocks! The good thing is it was 200 instead of 500. You may want to consider this as an option.

As for the DV - I haven't done mine yet - I'm going to wait until it goes to get a new one.

 

yes, it is totally recommended because u just never know when it will go out. if you can afford it, just do the upgrade. Forge 007, APR R1, Evo Dv, Bailey Dv, they are all good. even the upgraded 710n is better then stock.

 

It was great for the first week or so then it got boring quick, bottom line is you will want more. If you really want to go this route, GIAC is a very aggressive chip compared to others. Also make sure your boosting 7 psi beforehand, if not figure out why your not making full boost before you get the chip. I got the chip just to find out that my turbo wasn't working correctly, so i spent 450 for nothing.

Also, try to find a chipped ecu in the classifieds. Thatd be your cheapest route. GL

 

thanks for the responses guys. how do i do a boost check? sorry, im kinda new at this

 

The easiest way to check if you have any boost leaks is by installing a boost gauge. This is a pretty easy, straight forward DIY installation.
There are also other methods for finding boost leak such as the tennis ball method and others.

As for the chip, my car is chipped with GIAC stage 2+ and it hasn't given me any problem. I also have the flashloader which allows me to switch between programs/octanes.

Like said before, it is not a must for you to upgrade the DV but it is recommended. The cheapest way would be using the DV that comes from TT. As for my self, I am running Forge 007 ATM but I also ran Forge 006.