Wong Chip vs 1989 Porsche Code?

[Swoboda]

Hi, I have a 1985 911 with a replacement DME that (supposedly) has been updated to the last/latest Porsche code--the 1989 code.

It does, without question, run better than the original 1985 code DME.

Would a Steve Wong Chip be a good improvement?

I don't want to spend the money for a slight improvement; I'd like a noticeable difference/improvement.

Have any of the later car owners made the change and thought it was a great improvement?

I have the standard CAT, but have been thinking about a pre-muffler....

Thanks.

LS

[autojack]

My car has only ever had a SW chip in it since I got it, so I can't comment on the difference from stock. But I have a 93 octane SW chip for sale because in CA we only have 91 gas. So if you decide to buy one this might be a good discount for you.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/porsche-911-used-parts-sale-wanted/929986-fs-steve-wong-chip-87-89-carrera-93-octane-gas.html

[AHudson]

I have an 85 model also, and had my DME sniffed over, plus got the upgraded '89 chip. I agree, it totally ran better, plus I liked having the best of the OEM chips.

Then my mod brain took over. This is a minor derail of the S Wong question, but just giving you a different angle.

My car had the stock cat and what I believe was a B&B exhaust, though was sold by Brumos. Single in, dual out, on the edge of loud.

After much consideration and reading on this forum and elsewhere, I figured my ancient injectors were likely in need (original to the car, 65k miles, but still 32 years old). So I did the following:

1. Euro muffler bypass.
2. Upgraded 4 port Bosch injectors
3. S Carceller chip

All I can say is "big difference" in several areas. First, the car got mysteriously quieter. I was amazed. It's not tame, def not 'stock' sounding, but far more socially acceptable.

Next, the start/idling capabilities are superior. It lights off (chip has a prime feature built in) instantly, and the idle is just smoother, far more even pulses.

Lastly, though without dyno, the car feels much healthier. The reported hp numbers (by a very conservative Mr. Carceller) are far better than stock, yet "about the same" as those of S. Wong. So my best guesstimate is that I went from 201, to 214, to 227 ish on the hp. I'll take it.

I can only assume some of the running difference is in how the power is created, and what I believe must be better combustion en route. It's smoother through all the gears, never stumbles or bucks (which I've heard is an occasional side effect of the Wong chip, though others can comment here).

I had to submit a small, easily attained battery of tests to Sal, so he could assess based on the health and engine response (before/after) to the chip and injectors. He actually adjusted one element post-install to iron out a tiny, barely noticeable blip he didn't love.

I am fully satisfied. Just wanted to offer this as another route to consider. Best to you.

[Elombard]

One point to be aware of - remember

The stock porsche chip has to fit all driving styles, grades of gasoline, guarantee 100k mile reliability when the wife accidently puts diesel in the tank (:-)), long over due tune ups, best gas mileage, emissions etc.

The SW chip and similar assumes a knowledgeable performance oriented driver who will not put the wrong grade of gas in the car, keep the plugs and wires and air filter clean and will sacrifice a tiny bit of fuel economy and emissions for performance etc.

I dont think you will see a huge change in performance unless you free up the exhaust flow and get a chip that is designed for that and the maximum octane you can live with.

its probably worth the cost of the chip just to know that its the running the best it can.