I have just picked up a 2008 GSR. It's stock at the moment but I'm getting a borla cat back exhaust on it. From what I've read that doesn't need a tune. But I'm going to do some more mods. I'm not looking at huge performance gains (hope to get 350 - 400 bhp with stock engine and turbo) but more looking for some increase in power with better sound feedback. I had a 370z with mods that sounded awesome. Anyway, I'm going to get a bunch of bolt on's and get them put on and then a tune done. Here's a list of what I'm looking at getting. Is there anything you'd suggest I get and do a tune at the same time?

1. Downpipe (AMS)
2. Test Pipe (AMS)
3. New drop in filter (K & N)
4. Boost control solenoid (grimmspeed)
5. Cold air intake (?)
6. Blow off valve (HKS)
7. Front mount intercooler (AMS)
8. Anything else??? :-)

 

I'd skip the drop in filter and go for an intake. I'd also recommend getting hard piping if your intercooler doesn't come with it. You're going to need to switch to speed density if you want to have the HKS BOV vent to atmosphere instead of recirculating so talk to your tuner about that.

 

Ok, thanks for the suggestions.

 

the hard piping wont give you extra hp, but it will help the turbo spool a bit faster. Id also look into getting an air/fuel gauge to be on the safe side.

 

If the 08 is really 100% stock, the tune will be the best power mod you can do. The 2008 tune sucked.

Testpipe is always best bang for your buck. Of your mods, the downpipe is probably the one that will make the least amount of difference. It helps a lot more with an aftermarket turbo.

And I would ditch the HKS BOV honestly. Most people have more problems with them than benefits. Just get an intake and you will most likely have the sound you’re looking for

 

A boost leak test. Don't need a blow off valve for stock turbo.

Make sure the fuel pump relay is the latest one as well.

 

Awesome. Thanks for the replies. So I'm down to getting the following on just before a tune...

1. Test pipe
2. Downpipe (future proofing)
3. Boost control solenoid
4. Cold air Intake
5. Fuel pump relay

Is that it?

I was watching this video and he seemed to rule a lot of stuff out:

 

Don't even bother with a downpipe. It's a total pain to install, wait until you swap the turbo to do it.

 

Ok, thanks.

 

Spark Plugs, go with OEM NGK 1422's
The 4b11 kinda eats them and its always to good idea to throw in some fresh sparkies before tuning.

Ditch HKS BOV like said before.

You don't need a tune for the Cat back Exhaust. Test pipe is great, as the stock CAT is really restrictive.

 

I think you should drive the car a bit, get used to it, then decide what YOU want to do to it. You have a laundry list of 'top mods' that people put on there, but you don't have the hands on time to see what parts you want to address any shortcomings YOU find.

Enjoy the car.
Drive the car.
Learn the car.

Then decide what you want to change about the car.

Someone drove this thing for over 10 years without modifying it - doesn't that tell you something? The car is capable / fun / fast - STOCK. To measure it versus a Mustang or something and be like 'Well they have 420, I need that too!' is missing the point of this platform. This car excels at turns, twisties, boost between turns. Get used to that - get GREAT at that - then add power.

I think you should put a drop in filter on it, tops, and a Cobb accessport to give it a stage one tune, as the 08 doesn't have a great factory tune.

Then drive the car.

See what YOU want to change.

Enjoy my friend, it's a fantastic vehicle.

 

That is true!, I had mine Basically stock for 4 years, Cobb stage 1 and Tomei Ti Exhaust.
Had too stock was too quiet. And the Cobb AP to monitor a few things
The best upgrade I ever did to it was the Rear Sway bar, Whiteline 27mm. Ran it on the middle hole. Really helped the car rotate and kept the front from pushing all time.
Secomd best where front brake pads, EBC Yellows grabbed like hell. Giro magic's for DD use.

 

I enjoy modifying cars. And for this car I just want a better sound and a bit more power. It is a great car. I'm looking forward to getting it tuned. I just want to maximize that.

 

Test pipe
Drop in filter or CAI (you don't need a CAI until you get a bigger turbo by and large)

EBCS
UICP
LICP
Fuel pump
Exhaust
Tune

The blow off valve is not needed and can be a headache. That above is a great 'first set of mods' to do. Past that larger turbo then makes a downpipe worthwhile, and other bits.

I'd do the above, see how you like it, then put some Ohlin's on it for handling / an additional project.

Good luck and enjoy

 

Did you mean a fuel pump relay?