MK8 / 2.0T EA888.4 Tuning Update
MK8 Tuning Update: Several months back we cracked the Simos 19.x ECU and began the process of tuning each of these 2.0T EA888.4 engine. Getting into the ECU was only the beginning of the quest. More was needed to actually flash the ECU in the field, extract factory binaries, find all the maps, and fully understand how everything worked together – This all before tuning, testing, validating, and emissions testing the vehicles in their various configurations across various vehicles platforms. From there we analyzed setup data from both our Euro/ROW spec vehicles and our US/NAR spec vehicles and it was clear: In some case they differ by quite a bit so many tunes will need to be made to satisfy our global market.
We’re pleased to announce we’re nearing the release of our first tune for this platform. This has come with extensive tuning that includes outfitting our vehicles with additional sensors to analyze critical real time data to ensure we’re not pushing the platform too hard. We measure temperature and pressure in various locations, including compressor inlet/outlet, pre/post turbine, catalyst, intercooler, and more. Additionally we measure turbo shaft speed to ensure we’re not meeting dangerous levels in the pursuit of power, and we’re also measuring temperature and pressure in various other areas to ensure we’re not over heating or over pressurizing sensitive plastic components. All of this data is then used to also verify modeled information coming from the ECU. The additional sensors are logged through our Motec C125 dash and combined with our data from our proprietary APR ECUx logging suite.
This has allowed us to make tunes that are aggressive, but not risky. Often when being aggressive, you have to take risk that you assume will be ok in the long run. But with proper datalogging equipment, we’re able to ensure we’re not playing a guessing game during the tuning process. We know the limits when output creates temperature too high for various components and as such have created safety routines to keep output in check. Thankfully, for this platform, that means a ton of power not seen from the stock turbo on platforms past!
Stay tuned for more updates shortly. We have several stages, octanes, and even turbo kits and tunes already in the works for the new MK8 / EA888.4 generation of engines, along with our host of hardware mods including intakes, intercoolers, charge pipes, ignition products, and more! This platform is already shaping up to be more exciting the Gen 3!
Enjoy the attached photos of our engine bay filled with additional sensors used during our tuning exercises!
GoAPR
