Advice for a novice??

[GTiGS]

Hi guys, i'm new on here and have just bought my first ever VW, it's a mk4 golf 20V T totally standard on 104,300 miles. I need some advice on whether it's worth tuning at that mileage and basically where should i start engine wise? I don't want massive power or big bodykits, i think around 240bhp would do me but what sort of parts do i need to get it there and how much am i looking at roughly? I have a k&n on it already and have joms coilovers on order off ebay. Any help would be great guys, thanks.

[Yohan]

Welcome to the forum.

Firstly, if the car has been well looked after and serviced regularly then you should having nothing to worry about. These engines can do high miles, even in a tuned state.

Secondly, I would start with making sure the boost/vacuum system is air tight as at that age I'd be surprised if there weren't a few leaks. Many places offer boost leak tests or you can do this yourself (search the forums). Personally I'd replace all vacuum hoses with a good aftermarket alternative i.e. Samco etc. I'd also remove the stock PCV system and fit a catch can. It might be worth getting a diagnostic scan run on your car (I'm sure somebody local could help you) to make sure it's fault free before tuning.

You don't state what age/engine code your car has so that is something worth checking as your turbo type will determine your power gains.

This topic has been covered loads and there is lots of good information on the forums with regards to tuning these engines so you should have a search and see what you can find.

[GTiGS]

Cheers yohan i'll have a proper look through the forums and i'll get the boost checked soon. If it helps, i know my car is the 150bhp 2001 version. Do you advise any decent websites for parts and fancy stuff for the dubs?

[richw911]

Welcome 

See here for engine code info http://www.golfgtiforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=89491.0

Get yourself in on this group buy!! http://www.golfgtiforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=231412.0

Its a must have for when you get  a remap as the standard plastic ones fail for a pass time.

My car has 149k and has been mapped since 90k no worries whatsoever 

[Wayne]

No problems with a remap or other mods at that mileage if all is ok with the engine and it has been well looked after.

Mine is on nearly 120k with a remap.

[GTiGS]

Thanks very much guys i'll get right on it

[Yohan]

Cheers yohan i'll have a proper look through the forums and i'll get the boost checked soon. If it helps, i know my car is the 150bhp 2001 version. Do you advise any decent websites for parts and fancy stuff for the dubs?

Loads of parts websites out there: -

AwesomeGTI
DPM Performance
e-parts

to name a few.

Be sure you play them off against each other for maximum discounts 

[harlemex]

you say you dont want want much power, just 240bhp will do. Bear in mind you will have to fork out a fair wack to acheive this, a remap alone wont do it. Get the 008 though, it will seriously boost your power 

[GTiGS]

What exactly is a 008 harlemex? excuse the lack of knowledge lol. I've just ordered an NNC boost controller, silicone vacuum hose and boost gauge. What psi does the 1.8 20V T run at standard and what psi can you run the standard turbo at safely without anything going bang lol?

[harlemex]

Forge 008p re-circulating valve for the turbo. Essential if you run high boost.