hal0gical

iTrader: (5)

Hello Everybody,

I've been reading all I could on the FAQ for the past month or so and I've decided it's time to do the test drive I've been planning.

One question regarding the boost gauge readings:

I've read everywhere that the normal boost pattern is 10-8-10. What I haven't been able to find after applicable searching is if the pattern is off, is this a deal breaker? Or is this something that could be tested further and possibly fixed with some trouble shooting?

If so, is there somewhere I could look into this? Specifically what would need to be done and it's relative cost.

Thanks,
Ray

rexhvn

http://www.fd3s.net/boost_problems.html

adam c

iTrader: (2)

If the car is completely stock, the reading should be close to 10-8-10. If the car has been modified (at all) the boost may not be 10-8-10, and still be perfectly fine.

fendamonky

iTrader: (6)

With just mild flow related bolt-ons (cat-back, hi-flow MP, aftermarket SMIC, intakes) and a PFC I was seeing 10-10-12. Now mine is only boosting to 7psi under 4.5k (bumping up to 13psi after transition)... If you take your test drive and the car boosts 7-10-10(or higher onthe final number) I would be a little leery, since that could easily mean that your primary turbo is going to the way side...

hal0gical

iTrader: (5)

Thanks for the responses so far. The car is stock as far as I know. I did get a chance to read the troubleshooting link, and for the most part it seems a lot of the issues arise from a leak and can be fixed for relatively cheap.

However, it does seem like it could be far more serious and you will only find that out after going through all of the smaller issues that could be causing it.

In that light, if there is a drastic difference from the 10-8-10 pattern ( considering it's stock ) would you guys advise moving on?

Mahjik

iTrader: (1)

If it's a car you are looking to buy, have it checked out by a rotary shop. They can give you a thumbs up or down much easier than we can since we can't see the car. There should be something near by as there are quite a few of them in CA.

dgeesaman

iTrader: (7)

Boost pattern issues can be simple or complicated.

Some stuff is simple: restriction problems, a boost leak, or a loose vacuum hose. Some stuff is very complicated: sticking solenoids, leaking actuators, damaged wiring harness, crossed hoses.

All stuff is IMO fixable if you go whole-hog and redo the rats nest. Test solenoids, test wiring, new hoses, new check valves, test actuators and valves. Reassemble exactly per the diagrams. But not everyone is willing or has time to do that. And if you're paying a shop this can be expensive. Some people are just too lazy or hurried to finish a job like this properly.

There are stories of sellers who weren't getting power, then going to Mazda and receiving the (wrong) diagnosis that the turbos need replaced at a cost of $5000. Or the engine is blown. Then someone knowledgeable with a hunch buys it cheap, takes it home, and finds a torn intake coupler or a bad map sensor.

Dave

hal0gical

iTrader: (5)

Alright thanks guys.

Going to be looking at a few different cars and we'll see what happens.