04/10/2020 Audi A4/Volkswagen Passats! Get “Stage 1” power for less than $100!

Audi A4/Volkswagen Passats! Get “Stage 1”

power for less than $100!

Posted by boostboostboost07/19/2013

A “diode” is a small device which limits the maximum voltage of an electrical circuit. The amperage
or “electrical pressure” of the circuit will determine the size, quality, and price. Diodes for what we
are discussing here cost less than $0.10 each when purchased in bulk.

The “diode mod” can be used for MANY different things. It’s main purpose here is as a “band-aid”
repair, or in my own words, an alternative solution to expensive software changes in your
1.8t’s computer. The diode mod tricks the factory computer in a way that prevents it from cu ing fuel
flow at higher than normal boost pressures. There are pros and cons to this modification which will
be discussed later on. Today we will be focusing on how we can use a diode to dial-in more boost
pressure on a factory turbocharged vehicle by tricking the input of an essential sensor, the manifold
air-pressure sensor or “MAP sensor”. For those who are skeptical about this modification, let me
remind you that The MAP sensor works in conjunction with the MAF sensor, which detects air mass
and calculates air density & volume. On Audi and Volkswagen models with the Motronic V7.and
newer ECU’s, the MAF sensor will always be the most direct reference for le ing the computer know
how much air mass the turbocharger is moving. This is essential for on-the-fly air/fuel ratio
adjustments in relation to AIR MASS (MAF) and Thro le position (Drive-by wire only). The MAP
sensor operates in a voltage range of 0.0-5.0 volts, with the higher voltage usually referencing a
sensors “max” possible operating voltage, or in this case, boost pressure.

– What is fuel cut and how does a diode prevent it?

Fuel cut is a term used for when your Audi/VW engine computer a empts to save a running engine
from damage and destruction when it detects a “rogue signal” or abnormal input that lets the ECU
know something could be terrible wrong with running conditions. The ECU enters fuel cut mode and
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disables fuel pump output. The ignition system may also be temporarily disabled until boost pressure
drops to within a normal range. The purpose of the diode is to “clamp” the MAP sensor. The MAP
sensor is what the ECU references for boost pressure, and when it detects over 11.9 lbs of boost
pressure (roughly 4.3v out of 5.0v) the ECU will hit the dreaded “fuel cut” A 4.3v zener diode will
not allow the MAP sensor signal to EVER exceed 4.3 volts, which means the ECU never actually
receives the fuel-cut signal greater than 4.3 volts.

Factory boost pressure is 9.8psi. With a diode, you can safely run 13.5 psi of boost pressure without
overloading your factory computers fuel supply software.

– How do I install the diode?

Once you locate your MAP sensor on your vehicle, unplug the 3-pin connector and pull back the
rubber surround on the plug. This will reveal 3-wires. A power wire which sends 5.0 volts total to the
MAP sensor, A ground wire to complete the circuit, and the return signal wire (The one we want)
which returns the signal to the ECU.

(h ps://boostboostboost.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/example.png)

(The above diagram is an example. Please ignore colors)

A diode is a directional circuit, so don’t wire it backwards! There is an arrow on most to note
direction. The diode must always “face” the ground signal, as that is where excess voltage is
dumped, or in this case, anything over 4.3 volts. Simply splice the diode anywhere between the ECU
signal wire, and a ach it to the ground wire!

Once this modification is completed, you must continue with supporting modifications. You will
need to install:

A boost gauge and manual boost controller

(Optional) “Test-pipe” or downpipe

Dial the boost pressure slowly up to 12.5-13.0 psi and enjoy the benefits!

– Some side effects I noticed personally on a 2001 Volkswagen Passat 1.8T

Sensitive thro le response (may be related to MAF modifications done to vehicle)

On/Off boost pressure. Without a computer tune, your vehicle will only know “fast & slow”

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Mod away and enjoy! This is a really fun easy mod! Remember, this is a TRICK to make more
horsepower for CHEAP! You should always choose the safest and most trusted solution, which in this
case is actual SOFTWARE! If you do the diode mod and your turbocharger over-boosts due to a
damaged or seized wastegate, your vehicle will NOT hit fuel cut and may blow up! Be careful!

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