HKS SC just came in today. My wife called me at work to tell me. Anyway, I'm trying to decide whether I should attempt installation myself, or not. I have a good working knowledge of everything, and all the tools I might need. Up to this point, I've done a bunch of electronics stuff on past cars, as well as short-shift kit, spark plug changes, and installation of a whole mess of gauges and sensors which, in some cases, involved a good amount of engine disassembly, farication, etc. Still, this will be the most complex undertaking I have attempted. I have a week of vacation at the end of the month with nothing much planned, so the timing is ideal. I'm only just a bit scared of hitting a point and saying "oh ****, what now?!". I guess my biggest concerns is dealing with the fuel system upgrades, since other than tapping into a fuel line to install a pressure sensor, I don't have any hands-on experience with this end of things. I know if I did do it, and got it right, it would be a tremendously satisfying feeling. Not to mention that nobody is going to take the same amont of care that I will in sweating all the little details. Any advice, input appreciated.

 

I installed my stillen unit, and it wasn't that difficult. Others can attest to the fuel system on the HKS, maybe, (not many out there yet), but the stillen was all very straight forward with excellent written instructions.

I suggest you study the instructions for a day or two and see if anything seems especially difficult to understand. If you look at each step and say 'I can do that', then go for it.

It is extremely satisfying to do it yourself.

 

Sounds like something you would like to undertake! As "2003z" said, spend a couple of days reviewing the installation manual and decide. Once you have made the decision to install, make sure you have all the tools required. It is VERY satisfying once accomplished. Go step-by-step! The manual on the Vortech was straight forward. The only step that made me nervous was tapping into the upper oil pan. Did get some help with the ECU wiring. Decide early if you need to or want to send your ECU to Technosquare for "flash". It can be accomplished while you are doing install. No additional downtime.

One more thing! If you do elect to DIY, prepare yourself for many "PM's" seeking advice and asking questions.

 

I installed the Vortech myself and it was very straight forward. I would say go for it. Keep in mind that we will be here for you to give whatever aid we can. Remember, a fast car is fun but a fast car that you spent alot of time working yourself much more than that. Aside from the feeling accomplishment, you will have a much more "personal" relationship with the car.

 

I installed the Vortech with sum buddies pretty straight foward.

 

it isn't to bad. Just make sure you have the right tools for it and some good high jack stands.

also make sure your wife doesn't kill you when you take up the whole garage for a few days.

Take your time and ask questions also pics of the install are always helpful when asking a question.

when your working on the fuel systme try not to smoke or talk on the cell phone saw some guy on cnn that caught fire from a cell phone on time. not sure how it happend but oh well.

 

...and take some pictures please!

 

Yeah, be sure your wife knows you'll be mia for a couple of days!
I did the vortech myself, and I've never done anything like that before. It wasn't too bad. I would recommend doing it yourself.

 

FOR GOD'S SAKE, MAN, BE CAREFUL!!!!

... having said that, go for it. ditto what all the above DIY install gurus have posted. and i'm one of those guys who will be PM'ing you with questions some day if you do. so be forewarned.

 

just make certain you tighten the kuntzner valve on the flux capacitor to roughly 23.869 pilocrons of barotorque...

and youll be fine!

 

flux capacitor
wow haven't tightend one of those in awhile better go check mine out.

 

Do it. If a girl can do it, you can, too.

(Only difference is I did a Vortech install)

 

Where did you buy the HKS from?

I would DIY... but I am also a person who likes challenges and learning/accomplishing new feats.

 

If you have the basic knowledge and the right tools (which it sounds like you do) t's probably better for you to do it so if there's a problem somewhere down the line, you'll know how it all works and be better able to debug it.

 

Does the HKS kit come with a replacement fuel pump or an inline booster pump?

 

it comes with fuel pump and 2 additonal injectors!!