Hello all!
So after a long stint with a company car I've come into VW forced induction bliss. I came into ownership of a colleagues 6sp manual 2009 118TSI in full knowledge of the perils that lie ahead, mostly because it was dirt cheap and I've witnessed it live happily for 85,000km on its original engine. I also don't drive to work so any down time really doesn't matter too much, normally using it to drive to the gym, surf or fetch a 6 pack.
Since buying it earlier this year I've made a point of being aware of the weaknesses while also having a little fun with it:
- Stage 1 tune (with spark plugs upgraded)
- Sports Springs
- Curb chewed 17 inch VW rims with nice rubber
- New clutch and machined flywheel
- Tint, RCD510... etc
I've left the performance product names out but I am very pleased with the results so far for a car that looks pretty unassuming.
Some observations after the tune:
- First 60 seconds after startup see ~1100RPM with relatively rough idle before settling down to ~6-700
- Deeper exhaust note despite no modifications
- No error codes, rough running, pinging (touch wood) or other concerns
- 3-5000 RPM significantly more torque
- Engine running temp unchanged at 90 at all times
Some questions (having already trawled through the forums extensively):
- When getting the tune, I was advised that the upgrade to the fuel pump wasn't necessary and wouldn't add any performance value (Despite the forum info, especially from Guy H in Brisbane). Should I be considering this as a precautionary measure and will i see any performance change (good or bad) already having had the tune?
- Are there any other reasonable part upgrades I can do along with normal servicing that would improve longevity?
- Having had a 147 GTA with an LSD I'm surprised that LSD upgrades aren't talked about more in VW forums for FWD cars. Why is that?
Anyway, just wanted to say hi and to thank you all for being such an awesome source of info and entertainment
Cheers,
Mark
So after a long stint with a company car I've come into VW forced induction bliss. I came into ownership of a colleagues 6sp manual 2009 118TSI in full knowledge of the perils that lie ahead, mostly because it was dirt cheap and I've witnessed it live happily for 85,000km on its original engine. I also don't drive to work so any down time really doesn't matter too much, normally using it to drive to the gym, surf or fetch a 6 pack.
Since buying it earlier this year I've made a point of being aware of the weaknesses while also having a little fun with it:
- Stage 1 tune (with spark plugs upgraded)
- Sports Springs
- Curb chewed 17 inch VW rims with nice rubber
- New clutch and machined flywheel
- Tint, RCD510... etc
I've left the performance product names out but I am very pleased with the results so far for a car that looks pretty unassuming.
Some observations after the tune:
- First 60 seconds after startup see ~1100RPM with relatively rough idle before settling down to ~6-700
- Deeper exhaust note despite no modifications
- No error codes, rough running, pinging (touch wood) or other concerns
- 3-5000 RPM significantly more torque
- Engine running temp unchanged at 90 at all times
Some questions (having already trawled through the forums extensively):
- When getting the tune, I was advised that the upgrade to the fuel pump wasn't necessary and wouldn't add any performance value (Despite the forum info, especially from Guy H in Brisbane). Should I be considering this as a precautionary measure and will i see any performance change (good or bad) already having had the tune?
- Are there any other reasonable part upgrades I can do along with normal servicing that would improve longevity?
- Having had a 147 GTA with an LSD I'm surprised that LSD upgrades aren't talked about more in VW forums for FWD cars. Why is that?
Anyway, just wanted to say hi and to thank you all for being such an awesome source of info and entertainment
Cheers,
Mark
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