I know these types of threads are plentiful and usually aimless, I’ll do my best to keep this short and to the point.

Bought my IX about a year ago, I’ve done maintenance and reliability work for the most part since, nothing power related. The car has 115k, its an MR that has an Injen intake and HKS catback exhaust as well as a more aggressive clutch (not sure, ACT I think) but otherwise is stock. It’s my daily.

I enjoy driving it but I can’t fight wanting a little more out of it. If you’ve modified your car and could do it all over again, what would you stay away from or what would you do again without blinking?

I’m not after an arbitrary number, just looking to hear about positive experiences you’ve had modifying your Evo that made it even more fun. Thanks for any comments, suggestions, or advice you can impart.

 

What I’ve done: shifter console bushings, shifter cable bushings, trans flush, accessory belt and tensioner. Timing belt, water pump and FMS are next soon.

What I’m considering: a tune of some sort, will need to find a good shop in the Bay Area. Suspension is tired too so I’m looking into Bilstein B6s and swift springs.

 

Dont be in a hurry to do tunes until you know your power goals and budget as it costs alot for tunes.

 

Full bolt ons with stock 9 turbo is a fun car.

 

LICP, Injectors, Pump and E85.

That will be plenty of fun, and doesn't hurt the wallet too hard.

Made 405whp/385wtq and giggled the whole time.

 

E85 is tempting, though it seems it’s not in wide supply in my area. I could be wrong, I should probably put more time into figuring that out.

 

I think there is probably more E-85 available in the bay area then anywhere else in California.

 

Tom at TSComptuned does a great remote tune.

 

If I were to do it over again I would do Blistens / works springs, an ACD flash full bolt on's, an MHI FP red or BBK-full and E85. ID1300 injectors are good for around 500whp and would drive nice. Presuming the maintenance and engine are in good condition.

It would be simple and alot of fun. Sppol like stock, sound good and have plenty of power for a street car.

 

Really appreciate the comments thus far. I’m leaning towards doing suspension first, bilstein and swifts most likely but I’ll look into the Works product too.

Forgive my ignorance, but can you elaborate on the advantages of an ACD flash?

 

I would tune for e85, the best bang for your buck, the 4g63 loves it.

 

It improves handling by adjusting when/how the ACD operates. Its a night/day difference IMO. It improves turn in and you can also power oversteer if needed.

https://www.evolutionm.net/forums/ev...acd-flash.html

 

That definitely has made the short list, thanks for the info.

Guess it’s time to pull the ACD pump and rebuild it, I’ve got the christmas tree lights situation right now.

 

Restack the LSD plate, it is stacked incorrectly from factory
Get suspension component checked out and replace accordingly