I have a 2000 A4 with the 3.15 rear axle. My current modifications are a B&B Tri-flow exhaust and a standard K&N filter. My birthday is coming up in a few weeks and I thought a great present to myself would be to add a few mods. I could use some advice on whether or not I am focusing in the right areas. My basic criteria for my mods are that myself (minimal mechanical knowledge) and a friend (moderate mechanical knowledge) could install them relatively easily, that they will not void my warranty:nonod: , and it will not take away from the car's ability to be a good daily driver(it's not one, but I want the option).

Mod Consideration #1: Air Intake
I liked what the simple K&N filter did, and want more.:crazy: I am thinking of MTI's RAM Air system. Has anyone used it, and what did you think? How close to the ground does it feed? My vette doesn't see much rain anymore, but it is still a possibility. Am I running a risk of hydrolock if I get caught in the rain or hit a puddle?:eek: How tough is it to install? Other suggestions?:confused:

Mod#2: Upgrading Rear Axle
I am thinking of the Rear axle to a 3.42 or even a 3.73.:D Can someone explain the pros and cons of doing so. I understand I will gain low end power while sacrificing top end. How will it affect highway driving? Will I see a large increase in RPMs at highway speed? How is it driving under partial throttle (day to day) driving conditions? How tough of an install is this? Would I be better of taking it to the dealer?

Mod #3 Computer Programmer
Are Hypertech and Powerloader basically competing products? If so, any advantages of one over the other? I have read the Hypertech website and have some concerns. My local gas stations only offer 91 octane fuel. How will the program work for me since I cannot get the 93 octane fuel? Does the program recognize the difference between full throttle and partial throttle application when it comes to shifting gears on an automatic? Will the partial throttle shift be softer? What type of wear and tear are you guys seeing using it? I read somewhere on here that it doesn't have a setting for the 3.73 axle....is this still the case? Any problems with warranty and the dealers on this one?

Well, that's my thoughts....what do you guys think? Am I on the right track? Anything I'm missing? Thanks!!! :seeya





[Modified by 2k Monster, 8:36 PM 10/27/2001]

 

If it were me, I'd do a 3000 rpm stall torque converter, and leave the gears alone for now. This alone will give you 3-5 10ths at the track, and no loss in drivability. Then I'd do a power programer, as this really wakes up A4 cars. I'd leave the intake alone, as the 3-5 hp you MIGHT get with the ram air set up is not worth the risk of water injestion. Do you have an X pipe? What about an air bridge or MAF modification? Then there are suspension and brakes to play with. Best of luck to you.

Greg
:cool: