M45 on piggybacks - Next steps?
 

I'm running a JRSC M45 on my 1.6, runs great but I'd like to get your insight on the next steps.

I'm running a Vortech FMU and MSD Timing Controller, stock pulley, no intercooler, use 93 pump gas, and have 1 step colder NGK plugs. (Also - there is no belt tensioner, so it does squeal at high RPM's. I realize I do need one of these.)

What should my next steps be? Everything runs good, but I'd like it to run optimal.

Thanks for your time!

Ryan

Ditch the band aids and go EMS. Add fmic, injectors and smaller pulley. Profit

Step 1: Remove M45 and piggybacks
Step 2: Install turbo and standalone
Step 3: Fuck bitches

Oh my friend, you're asking those questions in the wrong place.

As 18psi said, you need a standalone to really reach the full potential of the 'charger. You need to ask yourself though, how far do you want to go? The M45 doesn't have a lot of headroom and once you start spinning it faster you will hit the ceiling soon. I had one on mine, and while fun I wanted more. I got lucky and picked up a BRP MP62 intercooled kit. Added a bunch of other parts at the same time (like bigger injectors etc). Still need to get my MS dialed in (mostly the idle, won't happen until I'm home in a couple of months) but the results are well worth it and should I so desire, I can do even more with it. I don't know if you can put a MP62 on a 1.6, presumably you can as anything is possible given enough money and acceptance of time/hair loss. If it can't be done and you absolutely want more horsepower, then I would have to agree you will need to go turbo.

This is my long-term goal, thanks!

Haha I realize this. I know 99% of the people (if not more) on this forum hate superchargers. Appreciate the insight. I'm really just looking to be around 160hp or so, just enough to have a little fun.

My main issue now is my acceleration gets hurt with the MSD timing retard. Wondering if a Bipes would help that, or just to ditch the piggybacks and go to a MegaSquirt.

:idea:

I would recommend checking into the Reverant enhanced MS2. I got mine in his group buy last year to use for my upgrading to a MP62, and I'm glad I did. It will cost you a few bucks but it will be worth it.

Late to the game, but assuming your FMU can take care of things short term, the first thing I'd get is an intercooler. That should resolve the need for retarding timing right off the bat. Buying a full ECU without the IC will improve your ability to tune - but you'll still be retarding timing which you stated is your main problem.

Are you running the stock timing and then having the msd pull from there? I can't speak from a 1.6 but I know with my 97 my stock timing is at 10. which many people have ran 6psi m45 on that timing but if you have the msd box, you can advance it to 14 and let the msd retard timing while in boost but will get a little better acceleration down low.

you're talking to a ghost.

Maybe I'll ad that one to the resume.

You will need an upgraded belt adjuster smaller pulley, intercooler 450 injectors MS ECU, coolant RR bigger radiator and a good tune and you will be there, or you can buy my car when I finish building a 99 w an EFR turbo setup LOL
To be fair an NA w an M45 well sorted out is a fun little car, quick and never scary, just all fun.