What I'm hearing is in order to go beyond stage 1, one needs:
At least a catted downpipe, if not the entire cat back exhaust in addition to the downpipe
Upgraded fuel pump
Air intake of some type
File
Any idea of price ranges for these components?
Thanks!
Multiple people have told you to budget for a clutch. Thats gonna cost somewhere around 1500 alone.
Stage 2 requires a downpipe and an intake is recommended.
Stage 2+ requires the addition of an upgraded HPFP and an intake is required.
A new downpipe is gonna cost ~850 if you buy it new and want a catted one.
My Neuspeed intake was 280 new I think.
Your tune will be somewhere around 500-600 unless you upgrade within your existing tuning company. I think Unitronic charges an extra 150 to go from stage 1 to 2. APR is similar.
Also, go buy a new cam follower and change it out. That's a 50 dollar part that can/will save you thousands later if it ever breaks.