I have read a ton of threads where the VTCS has been explained ad nauseam. I understand how they work and that they rob power. My car is 95% street driven so peak numbers are not what I am chasing. It drives me nuts that when I first start the car it feels low on power until temps hit 140 or I get above 3-3.5K rpm then it gets the "Shove". I hope I haven't missed this particular answer, but after reading so many threads I am surprised to not have come across it, so it is probably out there and I am searching for the wrong key terms. For state emissions reasons I need the stock computer and I need the CEL to stay off (No cheating by removing the bulb, can't throw any codes). Will switching manifolds(Skunk/Flat top/ETC) trigger a CEL? If so is there a way make the computer think it is working? It seems most people who are switching manifolds are already going standalone, which I get, so the solution for my situation appears to be pretty niche. Thanks in advance. Car is a 2002 SE. Also I hear it can be improved by changing some valves and that there was a TSB for it(Told by a tech) haven't found a corroborating source online or what the solution did, I have looked into this solution much less so not surprised I haven't found it yet and the answer does exist.

 

Afaik as long as you have the VTCS solenoid hooked up, it'll keep the CEL happy for that specific fault. not sure if the ECU will freak out about a difference in airflow though

 

actually this covers it:
https://www.miataturbo.net/engine-pe...0/#post1285254