My Modest Build

[MichaelBrown86]

I wanted to start this thread so I can track progress with my 2012 Velocity Red MazdaSpeed 3 with Tech Package. My intent for this build is to achieve balanced performance, while still retaining daily-drive-ability.

My objectives include a moderate increase in power, neutral handling characteristics, reduced weight overall (rotational, unsprung, and chassis) without sacrificing comfort, increased efficiency, and finally, subtle styling.

[MichaelBrown86]

My first modification was a set of 18x8 black O.Z. Racing Alleggerita's. Weighing around 17 pounds each, it gave me the unsprung weight reduction I was looking for, while also adding a bit of style to the vehicle.



My next round of mods include Cobb Accessport, Cobb Intake, Cobb Turbo Inlet Hose, Denso ITV22 Spark Plugs, and finally, a CPE Stage II Rear Motor Mount. (Not installed at this time)

[anavrinIV]

Skip they ITV22s, they aren't needed. They'll actually be detrimental to performance at this point.

Research before doing those mods....you're missing something. And I won't tell you what, that would ruin the fun. But it's clear you need to do some research.

[MichaelBrown86]

Originally Posted by anavrinIV Skip they ITV22s, they aren't needed. They'll actually be detrimental to performance at this point. Research before doing those mods....you're missing something. And I won't tell you what, that would ruin the fun. But it's clear you need to do some research.

I've researched quite a bit, actually. I have a general idea of my build path, and what parts I consider are worthwhile to me. I also understand the "required" mods, so if you're speaking of the HPFP internals, I am well aware they're needed for power beyond what I have now. Before I add more power, that will be the first step.

Also, from the research i've made, the ITV22 Spark Plugs are a good plug for additional boost that will come from the modifications I have so far and what is to come.


Thank you for your input.

[anavrinIV]

Your extra 1psi doesn't need step colder plugs. There's guys pushing 400hp with stock range plugs.

Spark plugs should be as hot as possible for a more efficient burn. The reason people run colder plugs is to combat detonation from the heat retention in the ceramic. If you are not experiencing detonation you should run hotter plugs.

you even stated you wanted better efficiency....

[Bingo]

+1
Unless you're making close to 350 to the wheels you do not need colder plugs. They will bring you more problems than stock range and in your case offer pretty much no benefit. If you plan on getting up to this power level, then replace the plugs then, not now.

[MD1032]

There are some who prefer colder plugs and some who don't. I am in the latter camp. I use OEM plugs in my car and run them for the full service life (60k). Honestly the most important thing is to make sure your gap is set correctly regardless of which way you go. I have found the colder plugs tend to foul more easily in some cars which can cause misfires and knock. In other cars they will run perfectly.

Originally Posted by Bingo +1 Unless you're making close to 350 to the wheels you do not need colder plugs. They will bring you more problems than stock range and in your case offer pretty much no benefit. If you plan on getting up to this power level, then replace the plugs then, not now.

I run 360 whp with stock plugs. They do run a little hot but it hasn't caused me any issues. When I'm on my lower states of tune, they tend to run cold and foul easily, so I've never bothered with colder plugs.

Also, no offense OP but if you did more research, you'd probably realize that handling and tire upgrades will take you a lot further than power upgrades, as appealing as they might be. Don't get me wrong, the intake is a decent idea but you need tuning to get any advantage from it, which you won't be able to do immediately with the Cobb Accessport thanks to Cobb's new policy regarding Accesstuner Race where you need to complete paid training to get a copy. Also, you could have easily fit an 18x9 wheel instead of that 18x8, which is barely wider than the stock wheel. The 18x9 will accommodate wider tires in the future and allow for more grip.

[MichaelBrown86]

Just ordered a set of Corksport HPFP internals. Figured I'd add a level of safety. Maybe my ITV22's make more sense now, as I'm sure the hpfp will increase boost a bit more.

[anavrinIV]

Originally Posted by MichaelBrown86 Just ordered a set of Corksport HPFP internals. Figured I'd add a level of safety. Maybe my ITV22's make more sense now, as I'm sure the hpfp will increase boost a bit more.

No. Clearly you aren't doing your research.

[Bingo]

Originally Posted by MichaelBrown86 Just ordered a set of Corksport HPFP internals. Figured I'd add a level of safety. Maybe my ITV22's make more sense now, as I'm sure the hpfp will increase boost a bit more.

I honestly can't tell if this is just sarcasm. I hope for your car that it is.

[MichaelBrown86]

I don't understand the negatively. I spoke with cobb about their tunes and they actually recommended these plugs with ap, sfor, tip, and HPFP. Cobb said the itv22'same work very well with their tunes.

[robbspeed]

Did cobb tell you hpfp internals increase boost? LOL

[MS3Shadow]

lol, hpfp internals increase boost. i don't really trust Cobb. the only good thing is their AP and that's about it. i wouldn't let them tune my car.

[anavrinIV]

Originally Posted by MichaelBrown86 I don't understand the negatively. I spoke with cobb about their tunes and they actually recommended these plugs with ap, sfor, tip, and HPFP. Cobb said the itv22'same work very well with their tunes.

It's not negativity it's stating facts. You say you're researching then turn around with lots of misinformation that's easily cleared up with 10 minutes of search results from this site alone.

[MichaelBrown86]

My apologies. I think there's been a misunderstanding l. What I meant is, I can safely run more boost with the hpfp internals. Not that they provide more boost.

[Bingo]

Well you did kinda say...

Originally Posted by MichaelBrown86 I'm sure the hpfp will increase boost a bit more.

Additionally it's still puzzling why you're so adamant about using step colder plugs when people (definitely at least a couple that have posted to this thread) know exponentially more than yourself and even Cobb on the subject. We know what's best for your car (at least at this stage of modding) even if you don't yet. Not trying to be insulting here, just trying to get you to heed advice that's been tried and tested for a decade now.

[MichaelBrown86]

Okay... update:
Ordered stock range plugs, CNT catted downpipe, Street Unit TMIC, and H&R Springs (great deal on the Facebook page).

So here's my next question:
With full intake, hpfp internals, downpipe, and tmic. Will I need to:
A) upgrade/disable my EGR system
B) use stock or ITV-22's

WI'll these mods allow me to run Stage 2 maps from cobb tuning?

And would the addition of a catback exhaust allow me to run stage 3 (even tho I don't have a FMIC, but instead, I have a TMIC?)

[mxlplx71]

A, you should, slightly cleaner valves and no hot air being pumped into the intake.
B, no. not needed until HP is close to or over 100 more than stock levels.

you should get an E Tune. off the shelf maps suck

[WAMBUSHHHH!]

Originally Posted by mxlplx71 you should get an E Tune. off the shelf maps suck

This. You're adding a good amount onto the car and those OTS maps are just one size fits all and leaves a lot to be desired for. Do yourself, wallet and car a favor and get an E-Tune. OTS is adequate but I won't use it long term.

[Cheapspeed]

Leave the EGR alone. It gives you better mpgs and cools the cylinder temps when cruising.

[MichaelBrown86]

Originally Posted by WAMBUSHHHH! This. You're adding a good amount onto the car and those OTS maps are just one size fits all and leaves a lot to be desired for. Do yourself, wallet and car a favor and get an E-Tune. OTS is adequate but I won't use it long term.

Is there a recommended person who does E-tunes? AmI correct in assuming that this requires me to send a data log to an individual and they provide a tune from this information (no dyno involved)?

[g00s3y]