Full Throttle
I noticed how the Blitz Throttle Controller doesn't add any power, just helps give better throttle response by altering the throttle signal in drive-by-wire vehicles. How does this thing work and is it even worth the $400+ price tag?
-Daniel Kirby,
Via importtuner.com
Any external throttle controller that is manually spliced into throttle control wires in your engine harness is a complete piece of shit. Don't touch it with a 10 foot pole. Splicing subjects the wires to potential breaks and electrical noise. You are not only playing with your life, but you're endangering anybody else who steps foot into your car. You didn't say what kind of car you have, but I assume it's a Subaru. If that's the case, have an experienced tuner use Ecutek software to tune the ECU and throttle to have snappier response. Or if you have a bigger budget, step into the Cosworth EC Pro ECU, which is a complete standalone and gives you three complete ECU calibrations to choose from.
4AG Power
I was thinking about swapping my car's engine for something more powerful, and was wondering what 4AGE motor has the most potential for all-motor power. I was thinking of going the bored-and-stroked approach. Any help or advice is much appreciated.
P.S. I've been reading the Question IT articles since it started and I must say, it's better than other magazines' reader communication. Some magazine responders are total dicks and give sarcasm instead of advice and help, but you seem to balance it out nicely.
-Keith,
Via Importtuner.com
I thought I was a sarcastic dick. Well, I'm glad I could give informative responses you enjoyed. You failed to mention what car you were planning on swapping the 4AG into, so I'm not sure what kind of space, mounting, or drivetrain configuration you have to work with, but I'll try not to be a dick since you're a loyal reader of Question IT. The 4AGE is not my favorite engine. It is heavy (for its capable output), outdated, and never made shit for power when compared to other engines from its day. The Mazda 13B, Toyota 3SGE/5SFE, Honda F20C and Nissan SR20DE/KA24DE all come to mind for superior output, displacement, and similar fitment. Don't let Initial D fool you. I'm all about classic engines from the '80s and '90s (I own 13B, 7MGT, and RB26DETT powered cars), but the 4AG never did it for me. Sorry.