To Chip or Not to Chip
 

Hey everyone,

I own a 2000 S4 and I was thinking of chipping it. I have read that 2000 and 2001 S4's have issues when you chip them as some of the measurements on the turbo's and other components are smaller diameter than later models which can put excess stress on the parts (more than just chipping)

I would hate to install this and find a week later that I need a shopping list of new parts, as I melted them all on my drive into work

I was hoping on some expert opionions on the matter

Cheers,
Dave

Re: To Chip or Not to Chip
 

Not that I'm an expert (I'm sure K04 will chime in soon :) ), but here's my experience on chipping:

The "measurments" i'm guessing you're talking about are the smaller oil feed lines and issues like the f-hose and hitachi vs bosch maf and so on... Thing is, all years of the S4 are "chippable" and the year doesn't necessarily indicate what kind of / quantity of problems you're going to have with said car. The previous maintenance records and current mileage should give you an idea of that as well as your tendencies on maintaining your car.

The thing you have to understand is that first of all, when you reprogram your ecu "chip your car", your asking the engine management systems to tell your engine to make more power (basically more boost/fuel). Now, you know that more power usually means more wear and tear on the engine and drivetrain from increased loads generated, higher heat levels and so forth. That being said, no you don't have to change anything right of the bat but there are "supporting goodies" that are worth considering.

For a Stg 1 (Chip only) S4, you're only going from about 250hp to about 310hp (depends on chip manuf.) Not all chips are created equal though. Do your research.

My suggestion is this: make sure the key components are in good condition, such as but not limited to:

Various mounts (Engine, trans, diff.)
Change the spark plugs for a fresh set and make sure no coils are cracked
Replace the air filter or get a good oil-less aftermarket one
Run the new coolant sensor (blue i think, instead of green)
Vag the car to make sure all other various sensors are working (EGT's, O2's, Maf)
Pressure test the car for leaks (f-hose and TBB are common failure pts.)
And always run super gas :-P

Heeding this and letting your car warm up before raggin' on it and cooling down before turning it off should allow you a relatively trouble free life after chipping.

...Know that chipping is the first step towards addiction. It's a wonderful paranoia filled, giddiness inducing, highly rewarding and often trying road...faint of heart beware...

Re: To Chip or Not to Chip
 

This is great information. Thanks a lot . My car is quite old, and I never intend to bang the crap out of it, but it's sure nice to know you have 300+ under the hood and open it up a bit now and then.

Thanks again!

Re: To Chip or Not to Chip
 

kbonarek addressed all the highlights :)

I'd also check DV's and definitely replace if original. Both my 710A valves were failed and leaking before 45K KMs on stock 9psi boost, Audi's replacement 710B valves were no better. I would suggest go with 710N valves or more expensive aftermarket valves like APR R1.

IIRC the revised engine coolant temp sensor is green, original ECT sensor is black and prone to failure. A worthwhile replacement part along with power upgrades as flakey ECT can cause the 2.7T a variety of wierd running problems.

Re: To Chip or Not to Chip
 

Well the suggestions of kbonerk are perfect
go for them


Various mounts (Engine, trans, diff.)
Change the spark plugs for a fresh set and make sure no coils are cracked
Replace the air filter or get a good oil-less aftermarket one
Run the new coolant sensor (blue i think, instead of green)
Vag the car to make sure all other various sensors are working (EGT's, O2's, Maf)
Pressure test the car for leaks (f-hose and TBB are common failure pts.)
And always run super gas

Re: To Chip or Not to Chip
 

I installed a new and revised ECT for the 2.7T that is Green. Is the Blue ECT sensor being reffered to a newer revision than the initially revised Green one? (I can't find any info on the Blue ECT)

Re: To Chip or Not to Chip
 

No K04, you got it right, the revised ECT sensor is green. I have blue on the brain...the After Run Coolant Pump Thermal Switch (lower temp) is BLUE.

It's not my fault...I drive a nogaro. :-P