Well guys, Im just about done with the common issues found on these XK8s so Im slowly moving toward products that will increase gas mileage and preformance.

My last upgrade will be 18" Coventry Whitley wheels with 245 / 45 on them but that wont be till the end of the year when I will come up with the cash.

For now this is what I'm keeping busy with:

1. Installed a K & N air filter.
2. Installing Borla designed mufflers (not complete exhaust system) to the end of the exhaust system for a more deeper muffler tone.
3. I am considering an ECU chip, , which connects to your OBD II wiring. I know ECU tuning is the way too go but I dont have the money for what they charge for that. Since the installation depends on what pins (out of the 16) are populated, I was wondering if anyone has a diagram that illustrates the wiring of the OBD II connector. My idea is to connect via male OBD II adapter like this one, instead of splicing wires. That way I can take it on and off when I'd like.

What are you guys thoughts?

Im thinking that with these 3 upgrades I can expect maybe a 20 hp gain. I have an Bluetooth OBD II reader and can measure if there is any difference in horsepower once I get the Mufflers installed this week. I will update the results. Anyway, anyone familiar with the ODB II wiring; your knowledge would be appreciated...

 

1) Clean paper filter flows the same and protects your engine way better.

2) Best mod you have talked about

3) No generic chip is going to make a real difference, each car has it's own personality and reacts differently to any mod. Do not do this one.

Mild upgrades are no reason to reprogram your ECU, unless you do several. Save your money for headers and high flow cats, they are your best bang for the buck. Unless you have a R. then it looks like the smaller lower pulley is a really good mod.

 

You are going to have to have a programming device to modify the ECM through the Data Port. There are only a few connections but the 'Reprogramming Power Supply' is the critical one for this discussion.

 

Excellent! Thank you! This really helps! If I decide on the chip, I will let you all know the outcome. Thanks again ..