Where do i start?

**1point8** · 04-03-2008 03:10 PM

So i have a stock 2003 a4 1.8t tiptronic and its in need of more power. I would like to eventually build up atleast a k04 but will probably go BT. I dont have the money to do everything at once so where should i start? I am thinking of starting with an exhaust/test pipe then moving on to an FMIC and eventually a k04/BT setup and tune. If exhaust is a good starting place then what are some nice exhaust systems people are running?

**NiveK1970** · 04-03-2008 03:15 PM

exhaust isn't going to get you anything in terms of power, chip and injectors is going to get you the best bang for your buck, and it's going to be cheaper than most exhausts

**1point8** · 04-03-2008 03:20 PM

Yea i know that a chip and injectors is the fastest and easiest way to more power but if i go chip first, Then get a turbo upgrade i will have to get a new chip. Im not looking for the most ammount of power the fastest im looking for how to build up a nice BT over a few months.

**mnkyA4** · 04-03-2008 10:48 PM

i would say go with a FMIC first then a exhaust. With the FMIC you will gain back some power that is lost during heat soak. I'm planning of purchasing the apikol upgraded SMIC as I'm only going K04.

**NiveK1970** · 04-04-2008 06:43 AM

why do people typcally only go FMIC why not the dual SMIC, perhaps put a nice small electric fan on both to make the heat soak a tad better for stop and go driving and extra hot days

**akaEsCo01** · 04-04-2008 06:48 AM

Exhaust, intercooler, then clutch. Those will be the three biggest things before you actually have to get a turbo setup and some software. Other things you will want to get and just have on the side or even put on are DV, test pipe, and a TIP

**pondside36** · 04-04-2008 06:58 AM

You are going to get varied responses here since every one has there own method or reasons as they move towards the BT... I am in the same process, I went intake(I know not necessary but I like it), DV, Exhaust, new set of coils (lots of miles on them), and now I'm saving for GIAC FX. I spoke with my shop and the savings for holding out for a complete KO4-15 set up is minimal since you already have the base software and injectors. The exhaust I went with is AWE cat back, and it is awesome, tons of good comments from friends and strangers, not as raspy as the video on AWE... good luck

**05A$SE** · 04-04-2008 04:47 PM

Re: Where do i start?
Exhaust, intercooler, then clutch.

Thought tiptronics are autos with the little side thing for shift up and down? does that have a clutch?