ST205 Increasing Boost To 17PSI..., I need help on what to do and expect on raising boost to 17psi Options

[veadp]

Hi, I am sure this has been answered somewhere, but I need help on what to do and expect on raising boost to 17psi.

From my understanding, the stock computer/turbo/internals can handle up to 17-17.5psi.

Now, I was looking at buying an AEM Boost Controller, a Turbo Smart Fuel Cut Defender and put in a Down Pipe (I already have a 3" CAT Back Exhaust and an Intake).

So:
1. Will I need anything else?
2. What kind of Power Increase can I expect?
3. Will the car remain Reliable?

Kindly let me know. Thanks.

[Nial]

For 17psi (1.1bar) you wont need anything. 17.4psi or there abouts is the standard fuel cut. As long as the car is mechanically sound you will be fine although you may occasionally hit fuel cut in certain conditions

Fuel cut defenders are best avoided. All they do is **** with your car...those things are deadly. I wouldnt fit one if you payed me.

If that is your only mod (other than the ones you mention) I recon you'll be lucky to make 300BHP at best if your car is in perfect working order.

[malpaso]

From 2009 I try to find out how to squize some more HP from ST205 3SGTE. I have spend many hours on dyno... I saw what is possible, what is not. Where are the limits. Believe me what Nial wrote below is bloody true

For 17psi (1.1bar) you wont need anything. 17.4psi or there abouts is the standard fuel cut. As long as the car is mechanically sound you will be fine although you may occasionally hit fuel cut in certain conditions

Fuel cut defenders are best avoided. All they do is **** with your car...those things are deadly. I wouldnt fit one if you payed me.

If that is your only mod (other than the ones you mention) I recon you'll be lucky to make 300BHP at best if your car is in perfect working order.

Plus... just do not underestimate one "small" thing. It is called "Octane rating" of the fuel you use. According to wikipedia has "regular" fuel in the US rate 87(AKI) that is 91RON... ST205 has ECU mapped for 95RON. That is in AKI 90–91. So in the USA when you take 90-91 you can expect those 245-250HP with stock boost. When you push the car to 17psi be sure you hit the limit of the 90-91AKI fuel first and you barely reach 300HP. Probably just those 280 already mentioned.

To get higher you need to put inside 93–94AKI fuel OR cool down the mixture. So really do not underestimate octane rating of the fuel you use.

note: is it true you CAN NOT buy 93-94AKI fuel in California? If so... how is got damn possible you have 350HP on the engine with that low quality fuel and not destroy the engine???