Opinions on an APR ecu offer I got

[TheRedGlacier]

Hey guys, my buddy found somebody who has a flashed APR ECU. Now obviously.. I want to install it. However, I have 204k miles on the engine block. I had the valve cover off last weekend to replace the VCG, and the top of the engine was very clean, like no sludge or garbage built up. The guy wants $190 plus like $12 shipping for it. It has the manual, with stock, stage 1 (91), stage 2 (93), and valet. What are your opinions on this? I'm unsure if the turbo is the original. Basically, what do I need to do before I buy this ECU, if I do. Manual trans AWM ecu, same as my car.

I was going to spend $300 and buy a project 1994 Celica, do a GT Four replica and go big turbo there.. I want to do the tune, but the B5 is my daily, and I can't afford huge repairs in excess of a couple hundred bucks.

[CoyneJ]

The tune will probably only effect life of your turbo if you do all your maintnance. Test pipe , upgraded diverter valve, boost guage, silicone turbo inlet hose are recommended for stage 2

[Seerlah]

It will also effect those old brittle vacuum lines and probably a few check valves. Upgraded dv is a must. Choice is really up to you, but car is a slug to begin with. Car will just be a slightly more preppy slug with an ecu flash. Makes the car much more enjoyable to drive, though. Pros and cons, with most everybody ending up taking the plunge. Won't know what will happen till you try. Oh yeah, boost gauge is also a must have.