Boost Controller vs. Chip?

[SlightlyMad Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close SlightlyMad]

Ok, so I have my shiny new 2004 120 Prado with the KZ diesel motor.
Coming from a free breathing, free revving Mitsi Delica 2.8 intercooled diesel, I'm both very impressed with the refinement of the Prado, but at the same time, stunned at how flat the Prado is once it gets to 3000rpm.
So... I'd like to do something about it.

BUT, I have a couple of issues that will affect how I proceed. I'm semi self employed and the vehicle is owned by the company. Anything that I do to it needs to be subtle so as not to upset my two business partners (we're just starting out and I'm guessing they probably don't think expenditure on this would be worthwhile, even if it's coming out of my own pocket)... secondly, I'm on a budget, so can't afford a chip AND a new freer flowing exhaust.

As far as I can tell, my choices are either a chip or a boost controller so I'd like to get your thoughts as to the pros and cons of each.
If I go for a chip, which one? there seem to be so many on the market. Are there distinct types? It seems from my limited research that some just add more fuel, whilst others are more of a full ECU remap, am I correct? Which do I go for and is it really true that they improve performance AND fuel economy?

Boost controllers: I've only seen one reference to boost controllers on this forum and can't find the post anymore. The owner seemed very happy with it. Do any of you have experience with this kind of mod? How does it compare with a chip? Any benefits or downsides? Do you know how much boost the KZ motor has, and how much additional would give a reasonable increase in performance without affecting reliability?

Finally, would a performance air filter help with the breathing, or is the restriction more on the exhaust side?

I'd appreciate your thoughts.
Cheers.

[SlightlyMad Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close SlightlyMad]

Any thoughts on this? I'd really like some advice from those that have gone down this route...
Cheers.

[ejukated Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close ejukated]

Boost controller is pretty easy and cheap to do. I run a TurboSmart one, I have a Dtronic Chip which isn't sold anymore. I haven't found any I'd recommend but others run might chime in with their experiences

[SlightlyMad Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close SlightlyMad]

Boost controller is pretty easy and cheap to do. I run a TurboSmart one, I have a Dtronic Chip which isn't sold anymore. I haven't found any I'd recommend but others run might chime in with their experiences

Did you do both of them at the same time, or one after the other? Which had the biggest effect?

[ejukated Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close ejukated]

chip for sure. The difference is noticeable however don't be expecting rocket ship performance tho. Sorry if it comes across negative - just trying to manage expectations.

[SlightlyMad Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close SlightlyMad]

chip for sure. The difference is noticeable however don't be expecting rocket ship performance tho. Sorry if it comes across negative - just trying to manage expectations.

Thanks, I'm just hoping to get rid of the flat spot at 3000rpm, if I can do that I'll be happy. Are you running a modified exhaust?

[ejukated Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close ejukated]

not yet

[Gramps Advanced Member Find all posts View Profile Close Gramps]

I'm running a boost controller on my 04 kz motor, couldn't be happier. It has Sport, Sport Plus and Torque settings. There are levels within each mode as well. I run it on the lowest Torque setting when the missus drives because I wouldn't be able to afford all the speeding fines on the other settings. The throttle is very sensitive and reversing smoothly takes a bit of practice. Whenever I'm offroad it gets turned off. It's coupled with a 2.5 inch exhaust (non branded). Can't remember what brand controller it is but if you check out my build up towards the last few pages, I have it in there.

[SlightlyMad Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close SlightlyMad]

Thanks Gramps. Sounds like this might be what I'll go for to start with. Do you remember where you bough the boost controller? They might be able to tell me more about it. Sorry for the newbie question, but how do I look at your build up? Still working out how to use this site.
Cheers,
Jason

[Gillies1078 Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close Gillies1078]

Hi Slightly Mad,
I've done the lot. Exhaust, chip, boost controller etc. the biggest restriction and the reason the old 1kz won't rev is the dump pipe. Step 1, get rid of the oem dump pipe and replace it with a 3 inch dump and that problem is solved. I put a full 3 inch exhaust on mine, it made a hell of a difference, it's the first thing I did. I know a guy that also kept the original size exhaust and put a 3 inch dump pipe on and he is happy with the result. Much better for the revs. If you do the dump pipe, get whoever supplies it to weld a port in it for an EGT probe. Very important if you chip it eventually to monitor EGT's if towing.
Step 2, install a boost controller and gauge. Very cheap, and a solid increase in performance for the money. Put a Turbtech boost controller on it, you can't go wrong. Adjust it up to about 10-11psi. No higher unless you get a bigger exhaust.
Both a 3 inch dumper and an increase in boost will give you a bit more go, and that maybe all you need.
If not;
Step 3, "chip". I've got a Steinbauer on mine. Never had and issue. Keep in mind, all that chips do on these engines is expand injector pulse width which is just dumping more fuel in. They are adjustable to suit your needs and vehicle set up. To have the units set up "flat out" (highest setting), you will increase your fuel usage, egt's and blow a bit of black smoke. Hence increasing boost (air) due to more fuel. Otherwise, dial the chip back.
In my opinion, if you don't do your dump pipe and exhaust first, you can have heat issues which lead to cracked head issues. Also search 1kz boost controller, there's good info on here. If your engine has done over 150km, get the injectors serviced too.
Rough estimate on prices;
Dump pipe only $ ? Not sure?
Exhaust $900-1200.
Boost Controller $40 eBay. Turbotech.
Gauge $140 dual gauge with EGT kit. Autotecnica eBay.
Steinbauer/ chip $1200-1400 (quality).
Cheers,
Dane