What or how do the rest of you feel about using a mbc? My mods are Perrin I/C hoses, K&N filter, and silencer elbow delete. Have it set at about 17 PSI and take it easy as not to give it partial throttle because it goes to full boost in any gear now. Am I heading for disaster or is it safe? Please help ease my mind.

 

from reading numerous posts here, i have learned it is worthless and a waste of money

 

You sure as hell can tell the difference between 14PSI and 17PSI!

 

at 17psi you better have an upgraded turbo from my understanding or be looking to replace in a year or two when it burns out

A safe psi probably maxes out around 15.5 but i can't be sure.

Also a accessport or another ecu reflash is definitely better than just boost

 

But with a child on the way money is a big issue, if you understand where I am coming from.

 

i wouldn't on an 04. too slow to open loop fueling.

 

If money's tight you'd best turn that thing way down, to stock boost levels or just a bit above.
17 PSI on a stock turbo with an MBC and no management is really asking for it with potential detonation (which you may not hear when it happens) and high EGTs. As stated there also may be more danger from this on an 04 due to the different factory fueling setup.
Spend a bit more now for safe engine management, or at least a good EBC using conservative settings, to avoid being in a situation with a blown motor and a new baby.
Or, just go back to the factory boost control and enjoy your car as it was made.

 

Access Port .. Its not that expensive when you consider the cost of fixing a blown engine. There are actually some people runing the AP and an MBC and thay have had some luck with it. I wouldn't mess around with an MBC right now though.