Will a 36mm wastegate run into problems when using a BCS to raise boost levels to say "11-12" I understand that the gate will attempt to open when directed but can there be issues if the gate itself is too small? I am just trying to get a understanding on this.

 

The gate size only affects the ability to bypass a given CFM of exhaust gas from the turbine section. What I'm trying to say is that boost pressure is not a limiting factor of a wastegate. CFM is. If you are running 35 PSI of boost and making 450 WHP (who knows what motor that would be) that gate would be more then adequate. However if you are running 15 PSI and making 1,000 HP that gate would be too small..

 

What can you do to determine if the current gate you have is sufficent? Is there a formula? Or do you just test it out? And what will be a symptom when the gate is maxed out?

 

Well typically the manufacturer of the gate has some rough HP ratings for each gate. In the event you can't find their rating as you start increasing boost and subsequently the WHP of your car at some point as the power increases you will notice that the wastegate is no longer capable of controlling the boost and you will see your boost pressure start to creep during the run in the later part of the power band usually. At that point its time to switch gates.

 

To small of a gate will cause some boos creep issues.