how much does a megasquirt setup cost?

[mpci]

I'm looking to replace my extremely tired CIS with megasquirt & was wondering how much it will cost. I have a 78 Scirocco with a 84 GTI engine.

[Road Boss]

Contact these guys. http://www.diyautotune.com/

[Rocco_julie]

V3 is about the best of them all at the moment. Air temp/water temp and a MAP line to the manifold and your basically done.\
You can also tap off the halleffect sensor and directly drive the coil for spark.
Do fuel first. Setting up both at the same time can be a bear. AND be prepared for a steep learning experience

[TBerk]

Any chance any of these Aftermarket Systems might be usable in California?, (and the SMOG guys know about it, and it's OK with them that is...)

[punchbug]

Mine's older, and I really do not recall what it cost. it will also depend on if you buy the components and do your own soldering or if it is built by someone else. Even in that case, you will still have to do a lot of wiring in the car, but the ECU would be done. Don't forget to add in the cost for a good wideband oxygen sensor, and the other sensors, as well as the wiring itself and connectors. You will also be needing a fuel rail and injectors, so budget for those. Depending on what your fuel demands are, you may be able to use "previously loved" components for part of the build (for example, on my 8v build the digifant rail and injectors worked fine until the turbo got added). Also, depending on what you are building, you may want to add some gauges (EGT and so on). It all adds up.

[TheTimob]

Basic:

• Megasquirt II with V3.57 PCB - $450
• Wiring harness - $85
• Digifant fuel rail and injectors from the salvage yard - ???
• Fuel filter from Mk3 or Digifant Cabriolet - $20
• Misc Fuel Injection hose - $30
• USB to Serial adapter for tuning - $20
• Innovate LC-1 or MTX-L Wideband Oxygen sensor - $200
• Fuse block and fuses - $10
• Relays - $5
• connectors for fuel injectors, coolant sensor, etc - $50
• new cone-style air filter - $20
• Misc Zip-ties, electrical tape, loom - $20
• Extra 14ga wire in black and red for power/ground - $10
• GOOD pair of crimpers - $60
• A Laptop or Netbook computer for tuning - $270 and up

So that's easily $980 without the computer. Figure is well over a grand when everything is all done.

Tips:

A wideband oxygen sensor is a must. I HIGHLY recommend the Innovate MTX-L system with the gauge. You can see in real-time how your car is running.
http://www.amazon.com/Innovate-Motor.../dp/B004MDXVRU

Dedicate a computer to your car. Let it be in there all the time. Get a DC adapter for it - don't use an inverter. (inverters create noise)
Computer Asus Aspire One AO722
DC Adapter: Pwr+ Car Charger

You will spend money on tools. Spend on your crimper. It will last you the rest of your life.
Here: http://www.amazon.com/Tool-Aid-18920.../dp/B0002STTTI

[mpci]

I saw a v3 solder your own kit for $378.00. That sound about right? Any idea as to what cc injector I would need? It's a stock 84 GTI engine.

[TheTimob]

I saw a v3 solder your own kit for $378.00. That sound about right? Any idea as to what cc injector I would need? It's a stock 84 GTI engine.

I used the solder-your-own kit multiple times, and I love it. DIYAutotune is the way to go. Everything's pre-labeled in baggies.

I have 19lb/hr injectors that are the stock Digifant ones from a cabriolet's 2H engine, which is the same as the GTI's JH aside from the digifant. I believe these injectors should be good for an engine up to 125hp. (i.e. it will work on a GTI 8v, but not on a 16v)

You can buy brand new ones on GermanAutoParts for cheap: http://www.germanautoparts.com/Volks...olet/Fuel/95/2

[Rannoch]

Basic:

• Megasquirt II with V3.57 PCB - $450
• Wiring harness - $85
• Digifant fuel rail and injectors from the salvage yard - ???
• Fuel filter from Mk3 or Digifant Cabriolet - $20
• Misc Fuel Injection hose - $30
• USB to Serial adapter for tuning - $20
• Innovate LC-1 or MTX-L Wideband Oxygen sensor - $200
• Fuse block and fuses - $10
• Relays - $5
• connectors for fuel injectors, coolant sensor, etc - $50
• new cone-style air filter - $20
• Misc Zip-ties, electrical tape, loom - $20
• Extra 14ga wire in black and red for power/ground - $10
• GOOD pair of crimpers - $60
• A Laptop or Netbook computer for tuning - $270 and up

So that's easily $980 without the computer. Figure is well over a grand when everything is all done.

Tips:

A wideband oxygen sensor is a must. I HIGHLY recommend the Innovate MTX-L system with the gauge. You can see in real-time how your car is running.
http://www.amazon.com/Innovate-Motor.../dp/B004MDXVRU

Dedicate a computer to your car. Let it be in there all the time. Get a DC adapter for it - don't use an inverter. (inverters create noise)
Computer Asus Aspire One AO722
DC Adapter: Pwr+ Car Charger

You will spend money on tools. Spend on your crimper. It will last you the rest of your life.
Here: http://www.amazon.com/Tool-Aid-18920.../dp/B0002STTTI

I just have to comment that I was able to do my Megasquirt install for about $500-600 (not including the laptop).
Shopping around is definitely important for cutting costs.

I probably spent 3 months collecting different items to keep the cost down.

[TheTimob]

I just have to comment that I was able to do my Megasquirt install for about $500-600 (not including the laptop).
Shopping around is definitely important for cutting costs.

I probably spent 3 months collecting different items to keep the cost down.

Yeah, I guess I was providing a worst-case scenario.

When I did it to my car in 2006, I used mostly salvage yard parts, connectors, relays, etc.

[J. Daniel]

Yeah, I guess I was providing a worst-case scenario.

When I did it to my car in 2006, I used mostly salvage yard parts, connectors, relays, etc.

Nevertheless, the Timob is right to point out all the miscellaneous stuff that you need to acquire one way or the other for a complete installation. It's not just buying the CPU for $400 or so and you're done.
Good job detailing all the stuff required Timbo!

[mpci]

Basic:

• Megasquirt II with V3.57 PCB - $450 <---The $378 solder yourself would replace this correct?
• Wiring harness - $85
• Digifant fuel rail and injectors from the salvage yard - ???
• Fuel filter from Mk3 or Digifant Cabriolet - $20
• Misc Fuel Injection hose - $30
• USB to Serial adapter for tuning - $20
• Innovate LC-1 or MTX-L Wideband Oxygen sensor - $200
• Fuse block and fuses - $10
• Relays - $5
• connectors for fuel injectors, coolant sensor, etc - $50
• new cone-style air filter - $20
• Misc Zip-ties, electrical tape, loom - $20
• Extra 14ga wire in black and red for power/ground - $10
• GOOD pair of crimpers - $60
• A Laptop or Netbook computer for tuning - $270 and up

So that's easily $980 without the computer. Figure is well over a grand when everything is all done.

Tips:

A wideband oxygen sensor is a must. I HIGHLY recommend the Innovate MTX-L system with the gauge. You can see in real-time how your car is running.
http://www.amazon.com/Innovate-Motor.../dp/B004MDXVRU

Dedicate a computer to your car. Let it be in there all the time. Get a DC adapter for it - don't use an inverter. (inverters create noise)
Computer Asus Aspire One AO722
DC Adapter: Pwr+ Car Charger

You will spend money on tools. Spend on your crimper. It will last you the rest of your life.
Here: http://www.amazon.com/Tool-Aid-18920.../dp/B0002STTTI

I have a spare laptop. It just needs a new battery.

Thanks for all the help.

[euroteknique]

unless you need to tune the car why not just go digi-1 or 2 and be done for way less.
but i'm biased especially since i have access to chips for digi-1 n/a and turbo

[85roccoZ400]

Basic:

• Megasquirt II with V3.57 PCB - $450
• Wiring harness - $85
• Digifant fuel rail and injectors from the salvage yard - ???
• Fuel filter from Mk3 or Digifant Cabriolet - $20
• Misc Fuel Injection hose - $30
• USB to Serial adapter for tuning - $20
• Innovate LC-1 or MTX-L Wideband Oxygen sensor - $200
• Fuse block and fuses - $10
• Relays - $5
• connectors for fuel injectors, coolant sensor, etc - $50
• new cone-style air filter - $20
• Misc Zip-ties, electrical tape, loom - $20
• Extra 14ga wire in black and red for power/ground - $10
• GOOD pair of crimpers - $60
• A Laptop or Netbook computer for tuning - $270 and up

So that's easily $980 without the computer. Figure is well over a grand when everything is all done.

AND BEYOND

Depending on what ignition you go with.

[mobiuslogic]

Oy Timob. This definitely puts it out of budget range for a bit. Roughly how much would it be going with Digifant 1 or 2 though?

[mpci]

unless you need to tune the car why not just go digi-1 or 2 and be done for way less.
but i'm biased especially since i have access to chips for digi-1 n/a and turbo

What all would I need? How much would it cost?

I would like to get this done as cheaply as possible. The CIS is just on it's last leg.

I just want the car to run properly. It has run like crap for way too long.

[euroteknique]

go to the corrado forums if you want digi-1 digi-1 is if you intend on going boost digi-2 is MAF based no so boost friendly compared

but i got my digi-1 harness and ecu for 150 POT sensor for 25 bucks digi-2 doesn't use this.
you still need the blue temp sensor and brown i believe it is and housing again all from donar car
if your buying it all i bet they will give you a good deal.
Digifant fuel rail and injectors from the salvage yard all this can be bought from one parting g60 or cabriolet or golf or jetta your fuel pumps will be fine and most of this plugs right in

there are tons of write up on how to do this and everything basically can be gotten from the junk yard or a part out. i bet you could easily get everything from one person for 300

[ydrogs]

unless you need to tune the car why not just go digi-1 or 2 and be done for way less.

If you did not want to tune your car leave in the CIS

[euroteknique]

What all would I need? How much would it cost?

I would like to get this done as cheaply as possible. The CIS is just on it's last leg.

I just want the car to run properly. It has run like crap for way too long.

he said the cis is on its last legs digital fuel injection is what he wants to move to. cheapest and simplest option

and for something that is plug n play set n forget digi is the way to go. even digi-1 will handle turbo needs later with ease up to a couple psi before needing a new chip. not everyone wants to sit there and tune the car most just want to get in and go. I have had SDS, autronic, piggyback fuel systems, and a few others. sitting there spending afternoons data logging paying for dyno time. then adjusting fuel curves. compared to time i just had a chip sure i could get more out of tuning it, but many times its just not worth the hassle

[ziggirocco]

Ok if you go digi 1on a 16v even lightly modded, what chip do you need, and who has the best one, and how much$$??

[davidpg]

If you did not want to tune your car leave in the CIS

This. If you find a competent mechanic, you will be able to fix your CIS and it'll run beautifully.

[euroteknique]

Ok if you go digi 1on a 16v even lightly modded, what chip do you need, and who has the best one, and how much$$??

you don't really need one unless boosted
if you go boost more then 14 psi you need a chip. I can get you a chip from SNS they have the best chips they rarely make them anymore but I can make a call.

This. If you find a competent mechanic, you will be able to fix your CIS and it'll run beautifully.

I used to know some CIS mechanics but they retired. CIS repair is a dying art. CIS runs great if you don't touch it but it does wear out then its finicky and many replacement parts are expensive. and most used parts aren't in great shape.

I completely understand the want to go digital FI. its fairly simple to fix

[mpci]

That is what I'm looking for. I want an updated system that parts are readily available & can be fixed easily. I'll probably go digi1 now & upgrade to MS later. Now I just have to source all the parts for the conversion.

[euroteknique]

I have chips for digi-1 that handle 400hp
now that person is finally going MS to really fine tune the car but thats only because he races and needs every ounce of power. for a DD i doubt there is a better solution cheaper

[mobiuslogic]

I don't mean to be rude, but your lack of punctuation euroteknique makes your posts hard to follow. Lol.

Timob or Doug T: What would be involved with a Digifant 1 or 2 swap, roughly how much, and do you know of a thread that would be helpful for it? Google hasn't been much help in this regard. Also what is the difference between Digifant 1 and 2? I just want better emissions and a little better running performance. Smog was a hassle.

[TheTimob]

Timob or Doug T: What would be involved with a Digifant 1 or 2 swap, roughly how much, and do you know of a thread that would be helpful for it? Google hasn't been much help in this regard. Also what is the difference between Digifant 1 and 2? I just want better emissions and a little better running performance. Smog was a hassle.

It really depends on if you can buy a compete setup from someone upgrading, or doing a swap. The mk2 guys throw away 1.8 8v engines with Digifant when they do ABA or VR6 swaps. Grab one of those. You could even grab a mk2 parts car.

An ideal car to get all this from would be a 1991-1993 Cabriolet. They have the 2H engine - the Digifant JH. Everything can swap right over and upgraded.

Most of the physical aspects of the electronic system I have are Digifant parts. The fuel rail, injectors, manifold, distributor, fuel filter, and the fuel pressure regulator.

[mobiuslogic]

EDIT: So the 2H is an 8V motor, but is it compatible with a 16V, or is additional stuff necessary to make it work? And is it Digifant 1 or 2, and which would be better or cheaper? Thanks!

[Rannoch]

EDIT: So the 2H is an 8V motor, but is it compatible with a 16V, or is additional stuff necessary to make it work? And is it Digifant 1 or 2, and which would be better or cheaper? Thanks!

There is additional stuff to do with a 16v motor (you'll need a new fuel rail for instance). However, rather than try and type it all out, you should read through this thread:

This thread is about swapping a 16v motor into an 8v Digifant car but the things it says to keep from the original engine are the things you'll need to get from the donor.

You'll also need the wiring harness and Digifant ECU

http://forums.vwvortex.com/showthrea...Digfant-II-FAQ

[mobiuslogic]

Awesome! Thanks Rannoch! That's definitely a worthwhile read!

[ydrogs]

he said the cis is on its last legs digital fuel injection is what he wants to move to. cheapest and simplest option

and for something that is plug n play set n forget digi is the way to go. even digi-1 will handle turbo needs later with ease up to a couple psi before needing a new chip. not everyone wants to sit there and tune the car most just want to get in and go. I have had SDS, autronic, piggyback fuel systems, and a few others. sitting there spending afternoons data logging paying for dyno time. then adjusting fuel curves. compared to time i just had a chip sure i could get more out of tuning it, but many times its just not worth the hassle

Digi1 computers are around 20 years old so be careful what you buy. I got screwed on two of them when I first installed my G60 and they were about $100 each so I spent $300 to get one that worked. Bought a used stage 3 chip and it was bad. Cost $75 for it then $150 from BBM for a brand new one. Once it was installed it was such a PITA to tune to pass emissions. You still need an exhaust sniffer to figure out your AFR unless you install a separate WB sensor and gauge.

It is now gone and I have MS and wish I would have done it first. My car fired right up using a G60 map found on the internet and it tunes its self. I did not need any dyno time or to log any data. Plus I can see what my car is doing at all times. Cool seeing you intake air temps and other live data when you drive Well worth the $ in my book.

Maybe my problems with with Digi are not typical and could have been prevented but digi components are old and used like CIS, just not as old and I do not believe it as "plug n play set n forget" as you make it sound. That was definitely not my experience.

I am glad you got it to work for you and that you can make it work the way it is suppose to. I wish I could have it would have saved me another $500 on the MS lol.

[euroteknique]

We can go back n forth on this I have seen dead MS units, units blow engines it goes both ways.

digi is cheap readily available and works no making a new harness it has one that works with vw.
he basically said he wants something he doesn't need to mess with.