It's interesting how different mythologies seem to share a lot in common. From creation stories, to hybrid human/animal deities with multiple appendages, to gods from outer space, our favorite might be tales of a "wise old man". Traditionally perched under a tree or atop a mountain, and blessed with limitless patience and the skill to offer advice in adage, one could only find this peaceful master after years of searching and exhausting all alternatives. Pay attention to that last part. Because, as Eric Hsu might just be the tuning world's "wise man" with all the answers, his patience has quick limits, he only gives advice in unfiltered plain speak, and if you're foolish enough to call him "old" . . . you might find yourself battling an eight-armed Bruce Lee
Automotive Confusion
I recently picked up a '97 Mitsubishi GS-T Spyder. The previous owner installed a 16G turbo on it, along with a full front-mount intercooler, Injen intake and a GReddy blow-off valve (BOV). I've read somewhere that this engine setup needs a wastegate to work properly, but since it's replaced with a BOV will it be OK? I'm getting multiple ECU codes being thrown from previous work done. One of them is for the wastegate solenoid and another one for the fuel pressure solenoid due to the previous owner taking it off to "clean up" the engine bay. Should I replace the fuel pressure solenoid and wastegate so I can actually pass NY's state inspection, and how can I get rid of these error codes?
-Tripp
Via importtuner.com
Wastegates and blow-off valves are two completely different things. There's a modern invention called the Internet. Use it, and go to a site called Google.com. As for the solenoids, you should probably reconnect them electronically if you want the check-engine lights to go off. As for trying to pass your state's inspection, I'm morally bound to tell you that it's illegal, but if the inspection guy's an idiot, you might be able to get away with it.
Budget-Building
I'm currently a Junior in high school, driving an '03 Jetta 1.8T (I know it's a girl's car, but at least it's a five-speed). I worked my sophomore year to buy a cold air intake, light-weight underdrive pulleys, and a three-inch turbo back exhaust. A Jetta wasn't my first choice but I wasn't going to complain about a free set of wheels. Next year I'm going off to college and my parents are going to sell the car, and since they technically own it, I won't be getting any of the money. I want to start saving for a car to buy when I'm in college, preferably something quick. I was wondering if you knew of any diamonds in the rough that are quick and fairly cheap. I don't give a rat's ass about style or creature comforts. I have a $4K budget, and am considering the following: a turbo DSM, S13 or S14 240SX (I'd prefer an SR20DET over KA24DE), Honda Civic (B16A or B18C swap), H22A Prelude, or an Integra Type-R. I'm open to all suggestions.
-Will
Via importtuner.com
Cheap, bang-for-the-buck horsepower = first-generation Eclipse. All other cars with your $4k budget are a waste of time.
Hybrid Legacy
I drive a '93 Subaru Legacy coupe that I want to put a bigger engine into and tuner it out. The only problem I have is I can't quite figure out which engine will slide right into my car. I've thought about putting another Subaru boxer in, it but I don't know what year or size would be best. I am a rookie and about to start going to school to become a certified mechanic. Can you give me some advice and maybe a couple websites I can visit to get problem-solving tips for future work on my Subie?
-Legacy lover
Via importtuner.com
". . . tuner it out." Holy shit, is that what it's evolved into? Anyhow, your best bet is to go for an EJ22T turbo engine found in a '91-'94 Legacy. Find one at a junkyard and buy the engine, harness, ECU, turbo, etc., and swap it all in. As for help on the web, try www.iwsti.com and www.nasioc.com. A friendly tip: don't use "tuner it out" with those guys. . .