RE: Advice??

["Stephanie E. Gill" <gillS1@zianet.com>]

Robert S. Minton wrote:
> 
> Hello, folks.
>         I'm new to this mailing list, so if I'm making an error in the way I'm
> sending this message, forgive me.
>         I've had an '88 Scirocco 16V since 1992 (when I totaled my '84
> Scirocco). It's basically stock except for a Techtonics cat-back exhaust
> and a K&N air filter (and a Saccs sport suspension which, after about a
> year of self torture, I am having replaced by the stock suspension.  It
> was never very comfortable and I'm convinced it played a part in
> cracking my motor mounts, etc... perhaps it would be nice on better
> roads than Michigan's). It's white, in nearly perfect condition, and has
> been maintained perfectly.
>         My question is, now that I'm in the position, and have the desire, to
> put some money behind this car's performance, where should I start?  I'm
> no mechanic, so I'd be doing nothing but the simplest things myself, and
> there are several very good Volkswagen specialists around here, but they
> are rather expensive.  Is the "p-chip" the way to go?  How about a wider
> down pipe? I'd like to get new wheels...
>         You folks seem to know your Volkswagens (what an understatement!), so
> I'd appreciate your help.
> Thanks
> 
> Rob Minton
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Hi Robert,

	I'm new to the list too so don't feel too bad :).  When you mentioned
the roads in Michigan, humor me, what kind of roads do you have up
there?  Rough, pot holes, etc.?  The reason I ask is because it's always
wise to have a good suspension before you beef up the engine.  Puts the
power to the ground.  You seem to stress comfort so the most probable
way to go is with the Neuspeed SofSport springs for "rough road" areas
and corresponding upper front & rear stress bars for those nice tight
curves.  Also, you might consider upgrading to the lower sway bars as
well to stiffen your car's chassis.  As you're in Michigan, how far will
your suspension upgrade investment go(road salt, rust, etc.)?

The engine compartment is up to you...the questions are, what are the
emmission laws in your state (any?), how fast do you want to go, and how
much cash do you have?  To "keep it legal" and keep you happy for
awhile, try Neuspeed.  Their equipment is superior and the guys are
honest {which says a lot since most of 'em try and take advantage of us
poor, defenseless women :)}.  You may also try ordering catalogs from 
Autotech, ABD, or Ron's Parts.  Their prices are relatively competitive
and you get quality products.

I think a few past posting to the list mentioned options to "chipping"
the Scirocco (power modules {extremely extensive posting}) and
Superchips soldering something or other in place of your current board.
I'm sure everyone will be glad to resubmit those postings for you.  I
also believe there were just a few postings on downpipes or exhaust
pipes earlier.  

In the wheel department, wheel/tire combo distributors will recommend
15x7 max for your car but I've seen Sciroccos riding 17" wagon wheels
(the ride must be murder!).  Since you want comfort, I'd stick with the
15" if you want to go higher on wheel size.  

Sorry to talk your ear off....hope this helps.

Steph G
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