ABY ECU chips

[luckyluke]

Hi all, i am new to this forum as i have just purchased my first S2 avant and im loving it! Ill be posting pics and specs soon but my first problem is that i have two chips for the car which i came with when i bought it but im not sure where they go. I have bought some plug connectors to solder in once ive removed the chips so that i can switch back to standard easily as im never sure about these generic chips.
If any one can help me id be very appreciative.

Thanks

[tropical S2]

Chips (Not californian!)

Hi there, and welcome!

Pretty much a new meber myself, you may want to look at

http://www.s2forum.com/forum/showthread.php?t=33383

and then take it from there!

[Smiley]

The Chips will go into the ECU which is located on the passenger side beyond the glove box (LHD). It's somewhat tricky to get it out (and in), and the chip replacement job has to be done careful! If not, the ECU may be blown for ever..

IMHO you should first verify that your new lovemachine is in a somewhat perfect shape, no boost leaks, etc before you do the job. As I expect the chips to use higher boost level, new boost leaks may occur..

[luckyluke]

I have had the ECU out and opened it up but inside there are three chips soldered in and no clue as to which two i need to change, which is the motor and which is the turbo chip?

[Smiley]

Look at

http://www.sjmautotechnik.com/trouble_shooting/20vpin.html

Aren't they of different size 512/256K?

[mark_s2]

IMHO unless you have the correct rework equipment this is a job that is best left to someone who know has. The potential to damage the board is high.

[S2central.net]

@luke - send me a PM if you want this done properly... I have a well proven generic upgrade for the ABY. Search for 'homefries' on here. Doesn't look like you've been around long. I personally wouldn't use any old 'ebay style' chipset - there are some horrendous ones out there. I do all the soldering work myself - I don't recommend that for you unless you really know what you are doing...

These ECUs are rare and expensive to replace so proceed carefully. Do you know the source of the chips you have obtained.

[luckyluke]

Which chips do u recommend? I work in formula one so have arranged for a collegue of mine in electronics to do the fitment but i want to make sure its done right and its also differcult to send my ECU away as the car is my daily driver.

[S2central.net]

I recommend mine Products from MTM, ABT & MRC are good too of course.

Tested aplenty by many on here and pushing 410-430Nm and ~280bhp. on good fuel (98RON).. Even higher power than that with airbox & exhaust upgrades. Slightly better MPG than stock (if you can drive with a light foot). Retains all factory diagnostics and safety routines. Complete software only upgrade - no mechanical adjustments required.

I have a spare ECU available - its out on a prolonged job right now but if you can wait a week or two.

[luckyluke]

Sounds good, but think it will have to wait untill after xmas, credit crunch and all that! Also what would you recomend as the next step after chips for tuning, ive looked around and the inlet and exhaust manifolds look good but are they worth the cash as far as performance goes?

[mark_s2]

If you modify the IC sockets I would advise you to use turned pins items - only marginally more expensive but worth the extra IMHO.

[Rusty]

I'll happily vouch for Paul's handiwork. 297bhp/330ftlbs on a k24 speak for themselves IMO

Mods before a chip are a damned good service and check over:-

• Fully synth oil - 5W50 for daily use - 10W60 if you're going to be on track
• New plugs if you don't know when the ones in there were changed
• Check plugs are correct tightness and in good condition if you're on a budget
• Check coilpack boots and wiring condition whilst you're there
• Check DV and replace if necessary
• Boost leak test of all hoses including vac piping
• Full check of breather system

Power mods after a chip are:-

• Free flowing exhaust, ideally 3" from the turbo back
• Modified air box or RS2 item
• New air filter, paper or K&N if you believe in them or want more noise
• Samco boost hoses if your hoses are looking tired
• Upgraded DV if you want more noise
• Larger IC

[Error404]

I'm determined to beat your 297 with my build next year Andy

you know what will do it? ..... some goooood head!!!

[luckyluke]

Well i took the plunge and had the guys at work fit my new chip holders and the chips. I know, I know, a bit risky with chips of unknown origin but figured people dont just make flippent chips for these kind of cars. Ive only driven 8 miles home from work this evening but the difference is instantly noticable. Tomorrow im going to fit a boost gauge and make sure its not over boosting and check the air fuel mixture then hopefully its game on!

[S2central.net]

Actually - some people do just make 'flippent chips' for these cars... The pop up on eBay occassionally - you could be lucky and landed something decent like MTM or ABT - but you are wise to check boost levels and AFR...