View Full Version : Optimax/SUL & Chipping Query
After reading another thread about the APR chip, and the option of adding a program to run better on 98RON, I am prompted to ask this:
If we get the standard APR package (475+VAT), which is just the new remapped chip, no cruise, 98RON program etc, then will using 98RON fuel, such as Optimax, be a waste of time? If thats the case, why is using Optimax on a standard car beneficial?
We always use Optimax, and would like to benefit from the extra power this should create, on top of what a chip will do too. I am thinking that the best bet would be Jabbasport chip, mapped to the car when it is running Optimax, as it always does.
Any comments?
Robertio
14-09-2002, 19:17
Assuming your engine uses a knock sensor (most modern cars do, so I imagine this will be the case) then running SUL or Optimax should improve things as it will advance the timing until the onset of detonation. I can't see any reason why an after market chip would be programmed to ignore the knock sensor and only run a standard map as things could go horribly wrong if you were to get a really bad batch of petrol. Check with the chipping company you are planning on using, only they will know for sure.
A map set specifically for SUL or Optimax should produce a bit more power than a map for NUL which just uses the knock sensor to advance things, however, as with any mod you are eating into the engines safety margin. If you do go for such a map ensure you always carry some octane booster in the car with you, especially if you are going to remote parts where there is no guarantee that SUL/Optimax will be readily available.
Disclaimer bit- I have no knowledge of VAG engines
My advice - go for APR with cruise mod. This gives you the option to swap between standard and chipped programs (plus cruise control as a bonus!)
I went for the standard plus 98 octane (optimax) program, as I always use optimax. this ensures that I get max performance from the car when in chipped mode, but if optimax not available you simply switch to standard program.
Also, I find that driving around town etc. is better in standard mode as the car responds a bit smoother and doesn't make you want to charge off at every green light!
All in all, I think APR was a very good choice, as the multi-prog option and cruise make a great combination.
Lozza.
Pete_slim
17-09-2002, 13:22
Originally posted by lozza
My advice - go for APR with cruise mod. This gives you the option to swap between standard and chipped programs (plus cruise control as a bonus!)
I went for the standard plus 98 octane (optimax) program, as I always use optimax. this ensures that I get max performance from the car when in chipped mode, but if optimax not available you simply switch to standard program.
Lozza,
Sorry to seem thick but does this mean that you have the following programs:
(1)std 180 bhp (does exactly what it say on the tin).
(2)chipped to 210BHP (running SUL)
(3)chipped to 210BHP (running 98RON)
+ cruise control
Is this correct? As I am seriously considering the above option with APR myself.
cheers
I totally agree. Having the switched system gives you the best of all worlds, plus cruise control as a bonus. I do have the luxury of both 95 and 98 programs but the 95 program hardly gets used.
Pete, the APR system can be loaded with up to 4 programs. I have:
1)Standard
2)95RON Performance
3)98RON Performance
4)Valet Mode :D
The cruise control buttons double up as program selection buttons.
Pete_slim
17-09-2002, 13:41
I think you may end up replying to my previous message before I complete this but here goes:
In the interest of research pending a possible future modification to my car. I have yet Another question...
How do you actually know which program you are running?. I know there's the obvious method of nailing it and you'll know, but say you have multiple programs (like the 3 above in my previous query) maybe even more than this..
How do you tell the difference between (2) and (3) given the scenario that you cant find an Optimax pump?.
What i want to know is : Is there a visual indication on the dash, or is there an audible beep for a corresponding program?.
The reason this comes is because not only do I have little or no knowledge of the exact workings of setting the cruise control, but I also do not have a trip computer which would actually facilitate such a device (i presume).
A picture of the cruise control stork would be magic at this time.
Once again apologies for seeming thick, but valid questions none the less. As I don't want to end up paying for programs that i'm not likely to use.
cheers
Pete_slim
17-09-2002, 13:42
Originally posted by Pete_slim
I think you may end up replying to my previous message before I complete this but here goes:
I knew somebody would... Have to type more quickly.
Pete,
I believe the engine management light will flash a particular sequence of flashes to indicate what program you have selected on the cruise control.
I too fancy the APR chip, I like the idea of swapping between programs.
Gaff
Pete_slim
17-09-2002, 16:21
Originally posted by Getgaff
I believe the engine management light will flash a particular sequence of flashes to indicate what program you have selected on the cruise control.
That makes sense.. Now just to convince the other half that the whole thing makes perfect sense.
Would probably opt for the STD setting and 98RON performance & cruise control.
Not sure of Valet mode, Have looked on APR website for more info, but not seen much about what it does, (any help on this ?)
Any Idea of how much extra this may put the insurance up? Just got insured with Greenlight... (cheers guys on here for the info & direction, best quote and able to modify/track day too if I wanted).
would it be a case of extra 30bhp is an increase of 16% in power over std. therefore the insurance will reflect this??
I Hope not cos it makes things a little harder to finance...
Always best to ask your insurance company BEFORE you get the work done. Some don't mind and only increase the premium marginally while others dislike it and whack it up!
You can then decide whether to chip AND whether the inform your insurance company. However I would STRONGLY recommend you tell your insurance company of any mods. If the worst happens and you run someone down, be assured the loss adjusters will be all over your car. As Zboyd has mentioned in the past, if you're worried about your warranty or insurance, DON'T DO IT!
Gaff
Sorry guys but you just have to remember which program you last set.
Selecting a program is done by holding in the cruise set button while the ignition is on or the engine is idling. After 5 seconds the engine management light starts to flash once per second. If you release the button now then stock mode is selected. If you continue to hold the button after another 5 seconds the light flashes twice a second. If you release now the next program is selected. If you have more programs then the cycle continues with three flashes, then four.
If you interested:
IF you have the EMCS program installed:
Hold "SET" for 5 seconds and the EM light flashes @ 1 flash per second indicating std program.
Keep holding "SET" and the EM light flashes twice per second, indicating your second program (for me 95ron)
again, keeping "SET" depressed it will flash 3 times a second indicating your 3rd program (for me valet)
Valet mode cuts turbo boost and limits the car to 4K Revs, very funny indeed, and handy too.
Other options such as FCE and TBA and lockout work off holding "RESUME"
Its all very easy once u get used to it, also get cruise too.
Got a quote meself pete off greenlight, with all my mods declared (and theres a few) ive got a quote of £1170 including £500 stereo and limited track cover (23yo 5yr ncb manc post code)
Pete_slim
17-09-2002, 17:02
Cheers fella's.. Sounds promising.... Valet mode mmmmmmm. (very good for running in something new).
You must get used to the difference between a light flashing three and four times a second. Seems a very crude yet effective method of selection.
Would obviously give insurance a call before undertaking such a venture. Have recently found that i have been stung by an insurance broker, (paid for 3 years insurance but second year the car insurance policy was actually in my girlfriends name, I paid for it too)...
Had company cars/vans vehicles before so only have own NCB of 2years. Have paid greenlight the extra for this oversight, but hope to continue keeping license totally clean to reduce premium even further.
Saul:
Manc postcode.... I lived there various places for 7 years go on it cant be M14 or M20 (student-ville)... Also lived in Swinton for my sins. (Can't get my missus away from Abdul's kebab house in fallowfield). It's a long round trip for a take-away.
Pete
South Manchester, just past northenden (not wanting to give too much away over the net ;) its got a bad rep for car crime
abduls eh, leave the missus in there and go next door to Pandoras Box ;)
good bar on the end of that row called Karma, greatest pub quiz machine in there, spot the difference on the nekked woman :D
you do get used to changing programs, if you ever take it out of performance :P
next time we have a NW meet (should be soon) see if you can pop over Zboyd and I both have the EMCS system and would be happy to give u a demo.
Pete_slim
17-09-2002, 17:30
Used to answer the Phone with "FALLOWFIELD SEX 'N' SAUNA"...
A frind of mine gave himself a real scrubbiing after a night out ending up there. Don't want to do too many details as this is a family show.
Left fallowfield/withington/didsbury area about 3years ago, moved to swinton (worked for ntl, or cable & wireless first). Before finally being lured over the border for a few extra carrots.
Have sent mark (ZBOYD) a few e-mails and have suggested that I come over to put a face the name (AVATAR's excluded).
Know the sort of area you're talking. Have a few friends still in manchester, worked at the UMBRO youth footy festival which is a yearly thing over near you.
Let me know when the NW meet is.. I'll see what I can do.
cheers for the info. Have already sent off to APR (previous to this thread for some advice). Will be heading towards warrington to check out Awesome gti before I finally decide on what to do.
Pete,never rang Pandoras, wouldnt know how they answer the phone :P
Awesome are top lads, really know their cheese, and a bit about cars too (groan)
Doing the best thing mind, checking out the supplier first to make sure you're happy with it.
Will keep u posted on a NW Meet