Big Bens non Clio

Decided on a whim to get a proper map on the Cupra as I wasn’t certain what my JB4 tuning box of tricks was doing. They’re quite big in the VAG world but you can’t beat a proper map imo.
Anyway after plenty of internet research(makes a change) I stuck the pin in a company the other side of the county who had decent reviews. Spoke to the chap and finished the call happy with my choice. This platform has been done millions of times over the years in various gti Golf R Audi S3 etc etc platforms and there’s not much between any of the reputable companies by all accounts.

Anyway, “stage 1” (snicker) ECU & TCU map installed and it’s a beaut. Lazy, keeping up with traffic in comfort mode to spicy in sport to batshit violent in Cupra. The gearchanges are so sharp I’ve no idea how that’s achievable. Motor is incredibly torquey and starts pulling at a lowly 2200 and pulls hard all the way to the redline. I’ve read up on clamping pressures and torque limit adjustments but I’ve got to admit I’m out of my depth with all this wizardry!

I missed my Clio for the first time when I heard recently that it had been sold on again. Feels grubby that it’s being handed about and not being loved like it used to be. I guess we all get that with old flames?

Wouldn’t mind another track day soon as the last couple have been much fun. Will see

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I thought you said it was already mapped by Unicorn?
Correct mate. Well remembered! The seller told me that Unicorn supplied the map for the JB4. After a while I doubted this and traced previous owner who suggested I contact Unicorn. Anyways turns out I wasn’t told the truth and unicorn hadn’t touched the vehicle:disappointed:
What I will say is that it wasn’t a bad map that was on the car when I bought it. Just this new one a bit better in the delivery and smoothness. Not night and day quicker. But I’ve got a clear picture in my head now and know 100% what I own
 
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Trying very hard to not spend money on this car but failed this week and ordered a new steering wheel from Royal Steering Wheels in Aylesbury. Had one previously on the Clio which was done by them and his work is excellent.
First time having an Alcantara wheel and after it feeling odd for the first few minutes I soon got used to it and enjoy the contrast to standard leather. Blends in nicely with the rest of the interior and just adds a bit more personality.

I wanted to fit some paddle shift extenders as they came with the car when I purchased it but I’d never found the time. Perfect opportunity with the steering wheel being off but sadly they didn’t match up with the locating pins being different in size and location! Bit pissed off at that but explains why they weren’t fitted by previous owner:grinning:

Shall order some more as the stock ones are on the small size for my sausage fingers.
 

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Looks nice, better keep those hands clean or it'll flatten that alcantara in no time! I love the look of alcantara wheels but tough to keep clean and looking fresh on a daily driver.
 
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Looks nice, better keep those hands clean or it'll flatten that alcantara in no time! I love the look of alcantara wheels but tough to keep clean and looking fresh on a daily driver.
Been asking around and heard similar but she’s not a daily so I’m confident I’ll be able to keep on top of it. Interestingly the guy who fitted it said don’t waste money on expensive products just use a tiny drop of Lenor and some warm water once a month. Job done
 
So it’s been a minute….

Few things have been going on with the non Clio. Aborted the notion of not modifying and in quite a big way:grin:

Had installed by the now VAG experts that are AWMotorworks some Bilstein B16 Damptronic coil overs. These retain the dynamic chassis control function on the dashboard so you can alter the settings still between comfort sport and Cupra. Clever stuff!
Early impressions are they feel great. Was worried I’d ruin the car but thankfully they haven’t! Slightly lower stance and a nice geo set up.
New rear brake discs and pads. New trailing arms as the bolts on OE never come out. DSG oil service and an engine oil and filter change and she’s fighting fit.
Had her weighed out of curiosity. 1346kg with a third tank no driver. Respectable I thought. Pushing 375hp she can certainly lift up her skirts and run.
Hopefully get a couple of track days in at least this year and bump into a few of you guys and drool over your Clio’s.
 

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