Got a 1997 850R 240k miles and was thinking of putting in the IPD RIP kit and was wondering if you could "feel" any difference with it or not? I only have my butt-o-meter and would like to know if it's worth purchasing.

Already did a Stage 0 and looking for cheap upgrades. What else would be nice to add?

Edit: Forget the first question. After I posted then I did a search. Sorry about that... But second question still applies...

 

RIP kits improve airflow not boost so what you'll get is better throttle response but not a noticeable increase in HP. So in terms of adding power, you have a few areas to work on 1) raising boost. Best way to do this is to install a tuned ECU (ie what IPD sells for about $700) 2) improve airflow out of the turbo - ie bigger downpipe, free flow cat, free flow exhaust (in order of benefit) 3) lower the charge temperature - bigger/better intercooler 4) increase available fuel - bigger injectors (you probably have the orange injectors and can go to white or green for more fuel). 5) other boost management devices - upgraded waste gate to deal with the added boost 6) bigger turbo. I believe the 97 Rs already have the 16T (best to check) where the regular 850Ts had the 15G. The 16T should be fine for most stage 1 apps,the 15G is somewhat limited but you can find turbo rebuild kits where you can install the turbine from an 18T or even larger. If you do the rebuild yourself, its not as expensive as buying a whole new turbo.

With that said, once you get over 300 HP, you run the risk of overpowering the automatic transmission so don't assume you can target 350-400 HP (very doable) without some risk to the drive train. 300 HP will give you the power of the S60R in your 850 so once you get to your 300 HP goal, I'd then turn to suspension and brakes. The IPD sway bars for the 850 are a must have (also do IPDs heavy duty end links). I paired that with Bilsteins for a simple performance/stock set up. Add some 16 or 17 inch rims and you are good. You can then do a brake upgrade to larger rotors up front. Look for a brake carrier kit which takes the carrier from the newer V70/S70s etc to move your calipers outward and then you can install the bigger rotors found on the 2000+ models. You can also go drilled or slotted with performance pads and upgraded hoses to ensure you have some whoa with your go.

 

Wow thanks for the thorough upgrade plan. Gives me something to think about going forward. Always looking for the best bang for the buck upgrades unless something breaks. Humm maybe my interior needs some work first. Seats don't look too good at the moment. That might be the next item needed instead of more HP... Fun to think about though..

 

check out these guys for new seat skins

Elwood Industries Home

 

Check this company also

Lseat.com

 

Thanks for the seat refurbish links. I was going to bite the bullet and get those Elwood ones but now the Lseat looks like a good bet too. Only thing with the Lseat option is that I need to get both front and back seats sets to match due to the seat are have the Alcatera(?) ones currently. But they are still cheaper that the Elwood ones. Does anyone have some pictures of the Lseats installed? Do they look like seat covers and sort of wrinkly and whatnot? If they are a snug fit then that would be great. Don't have to be factory looking but better than the ones sold at Autozone...

 

I haven't ordered mine yet, but they show as leather and Alcantara and require hog rings to install. I do believe they can do the rear seats (not shown) as a custom option. I have the tan interior in my car, so the color match is something I have consulted with them about and I have the swatch samples. The black covers should be an easy fit/finish and they won't make them until you confirm your order.