OK, here are my current mods:
K&N drop-in
Hallman MBC @ 22psi
MR Diverter Valve
Helix down pipe
Helix test pipe
Greddy EVO2 cat-back (modified to full 3")
HKS 264/264 cams
Nisei LICP
Walbro 255Lph fuel pump
IX turbo
PPI ported ex manifold
SS O2 housing
320whp/310trq
Mellon Tuned

The listed mods have added 100whp to my ’03 street-only VIII. These have all been very cost effective mods. (Except maybe the IX turbo.) However, I think I'm at the end of the road as far as "inexpensive" mods are concerned. From here on out the $$$’s per HP increase quite dramatically. I’d like to add another 30whp now, so I’m soliciting advice.

With these two caveats – straight 91 octane and OEM ECU – what would be the most cost effective mods to undertake at this point? What would an eventual set-up need to be to hit 400whp on 91? Or is that even possible?

(And, yes, I did attempt to search. But, the forum will not search on "91".)

Thanks,
Jim

 

im going to assume you have a hotside on that turbo.... if so, id say you should be a hell of a lot higher in HP then you are posting...... change the cams out, go more aggressive, and then you could start spraying meth.

 

meth seems to be the most cost effective option right now for more HP.

 

Some 280's and meth will be your only option in this case. You should be close to the figures you're looking for on 91oct. Make sure that you don't cut corners while picking your meth kit.

 

+1. With those mods, you should be at least at the 340 hp mark. You must have a very conservative tune.

 

^ +1, or just bite the bullet and get a bigger turbo.

 

Jim, you were looking at getting meth a while back if I remember. Why did you choose not to get it, it is perfect for your current level of mods and your goal, especially since you only have 91 oct, it will be even more helpful.

 

Cossie cam,retune and alky

 

the above suggestions are all solid. i would advise against going upgraded turbo (except maybe 20g) because on 91 octane, the gains will not justify the costs of a large kit. meth, bigger cams, and a reputable tune.

 

Definitely solid advice; I would look to a more aggressive cam as well. Your current numbers do seem conservative.

Maybe not the most cost effective, but you could always buy a large drum of VP and blend each time you fill up.

 

Injection :-D:-D:-D

 

Better cams and meth should make a large difference on your car.

 

I do agree. Meth injection is a very cost effective mod particularly for anyone who is stuck with using 91 octane fuel.

However, I'm simply unwilling to attempt a DIY install of something with the risk potential of a meth kit. There are no import shops in my area that sell meth, or sell meth kits, or install meth kits, or service and maintain meth kits. If there was, I'd definitely be a meth user.

I guess I will either learn to be contended with the current level of power, or I'll perhaps try a shop in Phoenix.

 

I like how he states he wants added power on straight 93 octane and nearly everyone tells him to add alky...

I'm sure bigger cams could knock off 10-20whp off of your goal. Get an FMIC too. All the kids are raving about them!

 

Hi Jim,

Sorry to hijack your thread. I found myself on the same alley and couldn't see the light at the end of the tunnel, I perhaps had a couple of more mods than you. I also found myself in a sea of frustration, I want it more power but I hit a wall, I tuned the car, and retuned, but no luck, final numbers were 331wehp/364lbtq on the stock Evo 8 turbo,IC,injectors and ECU.

Undeniably your best bet is to install a methanol kit, you will benefit from huge amounts of torque and I promise you will squeeze easily another 30WHP by allowing that Evo 9 turbo to boost higher. I also estimate you will gain a good solid 30-50lb/tq.

Just remember, I gained 21whp/64lb/tq on a Mustang dyno(ALL 4 WHEELS) on my Eclipse witha tune and the alcohol kit, I then had lesser mods than you, I can't even imagine how much more WHPlbtq you could produce with your superior and healthier set up.

I told you before in private messages, I am willing to help you and show you how to install the alcohol kit. I have had 3 SMC kits and I am confident on how to install them, remember,I pioneered the trunk mounted install for the 05, after I posted the 1/2 gallon concealed tank then everyone by masses chose"magically" to duplicate my setup.


One more time, bring me your car to my house, I have the tools, the experience& knowledge to get the kit installed. If you have reservations about me then it is OK, I would understand, you can PM me and I wouldn't be dissapointed. I like to help people out . Cost zero dollars.

Carlos