i have a '99 1.8T a4 tip with K04, dv 710n, giac chip.

I finally got around to installing a boost gauge and it is only reading 18in. vacuum at idle and spiking at 14-15 PSI

awe-tuning said i should be seeing 20-25 in. vacuum at idle and spike around 18-19psi with this setup that i have

i checked for boost leaks and can't find any. what are other areas of problem that might be causing the small numbers? are these numbers that awe-tuning provided correct?

thanks

 

could be your DV, when i got my 1+ i was spiking 23, holding 20 then my DV broke and i could only spike 18, hold 15

 

my exhaust is stock...i shouldn't expect as high of readings as you mention should i..or is exhaust not much of a factor in boosting?