Before you reply, yes I've read the forums but still would like to hear your opinions...
Have a 1999 A4 1.8T B5 quattro tiptronic. Stock turbo collapsed and replaced it with a k04-15. Timing belt and water pump done at the same time (110k miles)
I was going to go for APR but I called them and they told me that they DO NOT have software for the K04 on the B5s. Giac seems to be the only option... Any ideas?

 

IIRC, the PC16 file is what most guys use. A 1.8T guy can confirm.

 

GIAC is the only company that has a tune for the K04 as far as I know. GIAC is a good company so I would not hesitate having them tune my car. Some files require bigger injectors and such. Exhaust is recommended as well.

 

I'm pretty sure they make a "chip" for your Tip as well, to make the transmission more sporty

 

Thx for your replies. What is the difference with the PC16 file? is it worth it? I mean it looks like I will need to upgrade my fuel injectors and fpr bar?

 

PC-16 is an upgrade from AWE Tuning. It is seen here:
http://www.awe-tuning.com/products/a...we-awek04.html
But it looks like they don't suggest using the upgrade on automatic transmissions.

 

Went my local GIAC dealership, the guy was very helpful. We VAG-COM my ECU and using that ID number we were able to check on available software for my K04...
Turns out that GIAC has 2 options for my ECU: One plain k0415 upgrade (but I need a 5.0 BAR FPR), the other option is the PC16 file which needs not only a 3.0FPR but also 310cc fuel injectors and an intercooler -> i.e. more than $1000!)
Both give you about 75-110bhp although the pc16 a little more but for the money I am going to stick with the straight k0415 upgrade.
Any ideas on where to buy a real 5.0 BAR FPR? (not a crashed 4.0), is neuspeed the only option?

 

I thought the stock FPR was a 5 bar? correct me if I am wrong. And intercooler required for a K04? I am not sure i would say that you need one. It may help with heat soak some, but that turbo doesn't seem big enough to actually "need" one. I think you would be fine with the PC16 without an intercooler, unless they won't tune it. just my 2 cents.

 

Your GIAC dealer should be able to sell you that fpr. If they can't then why are they selling a tune that requires it?

I would get the reg tune then start saving for the PC16. GIAC will allow you to upgrade your tune for the new parts without having to pay full price for the upgrade, probably pay just the difference in initial cost.

 

MTM has a tune for it. I have a stage 2 tune from from them and I'm very pleased with the performance. and they can upgarde what you have if you make changes without having to pay for a full tune again.
GL