VAG-Tools: MK4 1.8T Tuning Guide: Stage 0

+ Stage 0: Free / Budget Modding

+ Looking forward to modding your dub but don't have the $$$ ? Don't worry, there are a few things you can do to get a little more out of your car. Most of the following mods can be done yourself, a repair manual (i.e Bentley) would be a good reference tool.

• Smoothing out the airbox: Free

Description:	DIY Links
The stock airbox has a rather restrictive path for the air traveling through. This is due to the many "notches" inside of the airbox. This mod involves "smoothing" out the inside of the box to increase flow. + Optional: Replace stock air filter with aftermarket (i.e K&N)	http://forums.vwvortex.com/zerothread?id=2282483

• Vent the stock intercooler: ~$10

Description:	DIY Links
The stock intercooler is prone to heat soak especially during warm weather. This heat soak dramatically decreases intercooler efficiency due to higher than ambient air temperatures. To battle heatsoak, you may "vent" the hot air traveling through the IC area to the passenger side fender.	http://forums.vwvortex.com/zerothread?id=2874120 http://forums.vwvortex.com/zerothread?id=182282 http://forums.vwvortex.com/zerothread?id=391235

• Diode Mod: ~$5

Description:	DIY Links
Want to increase the boost of your stock 1.8t? It is generally recommended to reflash your ECU, however, if you are going to use a boost controller, you must perform the diode mod. The diode(s) "tricks" the ECU into thinking it is only making xx PSI instead of seeing what the turbo is actually making. This will prevent the ECU from putting the car into Limp Mode (restricted boost).	http://s90139951.onlinehome.us/vw/diodemod.htm http://forums.vwvortex.com/zerothread?id=1484504

• Replace stock dogmount bushings: ~$5

Description:	DIY Links
The stock rubber bushings inside of the dogmount mounts are very soft. Although this equals a very smooth ride, wheel-hop is common when accelerating. This mod involves replacing the stock rubber bushings with heavy duty bushings. + Note: May increase cabin vibrations	http://forums.vwvortex.com/zerothread?id=3079642

• Cranked Wastegate: Free

Description:	DIY Links
A wastegate is a valve that diverts exhaust gases away from the turbine. The primary function of the wastegate is to stabilize boost pressure to protect the engine and the turbocharger. A flapper valve is connected to a rod that will cause it to open as you build boost. This mod involves "cranking" the rod away from the actuator so you will have higher boost spikes / quicker spool.	http://forums.vwvortex.com/zerothread?id=3008564 http://forums.vwvortex.com/zerothread?id=2901711

• Continue on to Stage 1