I know I know.....read the posts! From what I have read, not one of the posts answers the question of "What is a GIAC?" There was even another post titled this, but still no answer. Is it a new chip, software upgrade,....? Thanks to anyone who has the patients to answer the question. :smile:

 

It's a new chip. Take a look


http://www.giacusa.com/

 

Only the best software upgrade available for the MCS.

 

greatgro-

Is your GIAC dyno-tunable a-la Unichip? and does it erase factory ECU programming (i.e. plug and play/removable?)

 

GIAC is Garrett Integrated Automotive Corporation

They make software flashes for VW/Audi, Porsche, MINI, BMW, and they've done some other random cars. It isn't useable tuneable but it is the best program on the market. I've been using GIAC chips for years now and they continue to be not only the most powerful but also incredibly driveable.
Mike

 

Satisfaction! Thanks a lot guys, finally my questions is answered. I have read so much about the GIAC unit/software, but have never been able to figure out exactly what it is...even when reading through all the information on this site.

Next steps for my car:
Borla Sport Exhaust
15% Pully Wheel
New Spark Plugs
GIAC
Intake

If you have never seen this site, it has got some killer deals.
www.turnermotorsports.com

Any other good deal site out there?

 

No. Besides the possibility of a race gas map (which in reality, very few people need), there is no need (in my mind) to have map a, b or whatever. The GIAC tunes the MINI perfectly. Whether you have to take a Sunday drive or smoke someone on the highway, it's the perfect program - there's not a minute I want to be driving with some other "map". :smile:

 

Is drivability improved noticably over the factory ECU? Low speed throttle response, stumble, etc.

 

NIGHT and DAY difference. Did you not read my post on GIAC? NO STUMBLE whatsoever. Smooth and very quick off the line. VERY unMINIl-like. https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ad.php?t=35752

 

Greatgo,

Your answer suprises me.

 

 

Did you guys do the installs on all your upgrade parts? I am pretty mechanical, so I think I can handle the spark plugs, the chip upgrade...if its got a "shark injector", the intake and the exhaust. However, I dont think I can handle the pully wheel.

Greatgro, I am looking to do about the same thing you have done....except 15% to be a little on the safe side. May I ask what your total costs were including labor? I am only 24 and make 35k a year....so trying to figure out how much I need to save up. Thanks!

 

A 15% pulley (w/installation) $400
Exhaust $600-800
GIAC ECU $325

Total cost as little as $1325. The GIAC is a flash. There's no installation charge but you have to go to Helix or a GIAC center or mail your ECU to get the program. THERE WILL BE A CABLE soon and then you can do the upgrade yourself.

 

What do you think of this kit.....part wise and cost wise?

TMS Power Package Stage II for the MCS
Applications: 2002 - 2004 Cooper S (MCS)
Want even more? *We are getting over 215 HP (Depending on intercooler temp) from*the TMS power*pulley, Shark Injector software kit,* Borla Stainless Sport Exhaust and TMS Cold Air Intake!** Kit includes*custom TMS/Conforti software loaded in*a "do it yourself" Shark Injector unit, a billet aluminum supercharger pulley, special BOSCH spark plugs designed for the Mini Cooper S running higher boost, great looking and great sounding Borla cat-back exhaust and our easy to install cold air intake kit.* Installation of the TMS power pulley takes 3-4 hours - professional installation is required.*The*Shark Injector - can be installed yourself in less than 15 minutes and is completely reversible if you wish.* The Borla Exhaust - Easy bolt on and takes about 1 hour.* The intake installs in about 30 minutes.**

Price: $1449
Click Here to Order!

This has to be the coolest site I have seen yet. I cant talk about my car enough!

 

i see you live in denver. that is pretty close to webb motorsports i think. you could go by his shop and get all the info you might need.provided you can catch him in. the pulley install can be done yourself and could take 2-3hrs, randy at webb can do it in less than 1.

 

SWEET! He is Littleton, which is basically Denver. Well, my decision is made as to where to go. Thanks guys!

 

Well first I'd say it's quite the exaggeration on hp. The pulley makes about 15, the shark makes around 0 and intakes don't make more than 2-3. The Borla probably gives 5-6. Best case scenario is you have 188hp - and that's crank horses, not wheel hp.

Being that you live by Randy Webb, go with your latest thought and make an appointment with him. Don't think about it anymore - just do it!

Now back on topic...this is a GIAC thread.