I plan on flashing to IE Stage2, next week after I get the exhaust leak sorted. Right now with the exhaust leak there is a dead spot just above 3K, if i back off then get back on, BUT if i rev from low to high rpm it is not too noticeable.
First test/observation will be to see/answer the question of the EI Stage2 Tune with the Stock Intake manifold. I hope to flash back to Stage1, if it runs like Sh!t.
Second will be to install a hack manifold that I started working on yesterday, .... more later.
I had Flashed to Stage2 a while back, forgot the exact date. Yes still running the Original Intake Manifold (07K133201), I've swapped them so many times I lost track of which one is on the car, either version L or K but not the new M version.
Stage2 Tune with the Stock Intake Manifold(IM) with respect to performance, seems to pull smoother between 2k and 3K, over-all compared to Stage1, it sounds alot crisper and bit more angrier than the Stage1 Tune which sounds hollow by comparison, for a $100 more performance is slightly better from 4.5K to 7K and again sounds better getting there. I'm still having alot of fun, so I haven't flashed back to Stage1, not sure if I will.
Reving past 7K doesn't have any advantage with the Stock IM but sounds ahell of alot better than Stage1. Gas milage is surprisingly still quite good, I woulda expected Stage2 to use alot more fuel, especially since the temps right now around freezing, but I smell rotten eggs... so the Stage2 Tune is running a bit richer.
IE Black Friday around the corner BUT I've spend so much on my other car that I'm having second thoughts on pulling the trigger.
:23:
EDIT:
Updated/clarified a few comments above.
Black Friday came and went and I'm still with the Stage2 Tune and Stock IM, no I didn't pull the trigger, the adjusted price is like$1000 CA$,...has something to do with it. By the Book, it's not the optimum setup but the fact that I'm still using the Stage2 Tune should tell you something. I'm actually thinking that for the automatic cars, the Stage2 Tune and Stock IM along with the Automatic Transmission Tune would be a better combination, as the longer runners allows more mid-range torque where the auto box needs it and the Automatic Tune allows you to rev past the trannys limits to get that extra bit of performance, again not optimal as you're not running the SRI but prolly better drivability, some bragging rights, ... your choice.