Cobb Stage 1 vs. Intercooler

[CRasch]

So I'm looking at getting a little more performance out my ST before I take here through the Colorado passes next month. I was pretty set in my understanding that a Cobb Stage 1 kit was a great starting point but now I'm seeing more and more posts suggesting intercooler first before tuning. My current budget only affords Stage 1 parts or an intercooler, but not both. Any advice? Thank you.

 

[MPA]

You'll be fine w/ no intercooler and the OTS Stage 1 tune.

 

[CRasch]

You'll be fine w/ no intercooler and the OTS Stage 1 tune.

Thanks!

 

[OffTheWall503]

Won't a FMIC upgrade technically put you in Stage 2?

But either way if you can only get one right now, definitely start with an Accessport 3 with Stage 1 map. Mountune has a good option that includes a custom Stage 1 map from Randy at Mountune. Plus it will include the Stage 2 map once you're ready for it.

 

[CRasch]

Won't a FMIC upgrade technically put you in Stage 2?

But either way if you can only get one right now, definitely start with an Accessport 3 with Stage 1 map. Mountune has a good option that includes a custom Stage 1 map from Randy at Mountune. Plus it will include the Stage 2 map once you're ready for it.

I think the FMIC is part of Stage 2, you're right. Just seems like more and more people are recommending it as a first mod. Cobb AP it is!

 

[Hijinx]

Are you averse to buying used parts?


Scent from Glade Air Freshener

 

[Hijinx]

Also, what's your end game? What do you want to do with the car? 1/4 mile? AutoX? Road Course? Do you X amount of power eventually? Do you want to chase down Hellcats or just have a little fun with a Civic Si?

I'm asking you a lot of questions, I know. But, if we can figure it out, we can get you pretty solid answers on the paths you can take.


Scent from Glade Air Freshener

 

[CRasch]

I'm just mainly in it for the fun. Picking on Si's and such would be a big bonus. I'm definitely not against used parts, I even put up a listing in the WTB forum.

 

[Hijinx]

Let me preface this by saying that I advocate saving for the best parts you can afford. Save up for a couple months and buy an intercooler, AP and get a protune. With that said, I understand not everyone wants to save for months. That's totally cool and I in no way expect anyone to change their own opinion because I believe in my own.


Fun only stuff: CAIs, cat-back exhausts, BPV adapters.

Power mods: a Cobb tuner with a pro-tune and Intercooler, hands-down.

Pick up an intercooler (I do not suggest 2JRs, although some of their other parts are great). At stockish power levels they're all pretty good. Top performers in this area are the two Dead Hook Motorsports coolers, Cobb, Mountune and MTC (from what I've seen, especially considering the price). I suggest you find a used Cobb or a brand new MTC. Also, Mishimoto is a great company, but I don't think many are running their intercooler yet. Custom Performance Engineering is def spendy.

If you decide you want a protune, I suggest Stratified Automotive Controls or Dead Hook Motorsports. Even Mountune is good... There is Panda Motorworks; they are making some progress in their Fiesta in the FWD rally scene. Tune+ is for the budget-minded, but be aware that you get what you pay for; they have a pretty good "lifetime tuning" deal.


Summing up, to keep it cheap and fun, find a used Cobb or buy a new MTC intercooler, and pick up a used AP. But, a protune will get you a lot of bang for the buck. If you decide you want a protune, get an AP first. If not, get an intercooler first; won't net any power, but you can keep what you have for a little longer in the summer days.



Scent from Glade Air Freshener

 

[AzNightmare]

Depo Racing is another option for a budget intercooler. Similar to MTC, it looks like a COBB clone.

http://www.deporacing.us/shop/ford/2013-ford-fiesta-st-3-intercooler-upgrade/


MTC might be cheaper though, depending where you find it/buy it.