Spare Engine Rebuild Update: Haltech Platinum Pro

Yesss!!! My Haltech Platinum Pro Plug & Play R33 Engine Management System (including a 3 bar map sensor) has arrived from Australia!!!

 
Decided to switch from my Apexi Power FC with Commander to the Haltech Platinum Pro, due to the following reasons:

• User definable X- & Y-axis for fuel, ignition and boost
• 32x32 high res mapping
• VE Tuning (Volumetric Efficiency)
• MAF (no longer have to balance air fuel mixtures correctly)
• Advanced intelligent knock control
• CAN communication (really works as promised!)
• Closed loop idle control
• Speed density (more power)
• Launch control 
• N-VCT (Nissan Variable CAM Timing Control)

Thats just a few of the Haltech's features. Full details: http://www.haltech.com/store/index.php/plugin-ecu-kits/platinum-pro-kits/platinum-pro-plug-in-nissan-r32-33-skyline-kit.html

The Power FC is no longer in production and is technically a 10 year old technology, reliant on AFM readings (which is a pain to balance for twin turbos) plus it only has 20x20 resolution, does not have a ignition cut feature (fuel cut only) = limited tuning features when it comes to modified higher horsepower engines.

Installed: Blitz Nur Spec R Exhaust

I've been looking around for a replacement exhaust in the lead up to my engine rebuild. My old exhaust system is a workshop amalgamation of a Kakimoto muffler and a custom straight pipe with numerous weld points. So it had to be factory crafted, loud and net a power gain. 

I was looking at titanium systems but not really sold on the sound - I prefer the more bassy note of stainless steel systems. Its also difficult to get a titanium exhaust repaired if anything were to break or crack, as we do not have a titanium welding facility here in Malaysia (or one thats accessible to the general public). Despite what some people say, you can't do a weld on titanium pieces unless its in a controlled environment, devoid of oxgyen i.e. a vacuum-controlled chamber!

So my search continued but time and time again, I came to the same conclusion. The Blitz Nur Spec R exhaust system came up tops among most Skyline owners in their forum discussions. The system also comes with a detachable silencer thats nests inside the muffler. So if there ever came a time to tone down the decibels (i.e. MOT tests), one can turn to this device (refer to the pic below - its the object next to the gasket and screws). The Nur Spec R is also one of the few exhaust systems thats completely made from 100% stainless steel - tip to tip.

So I ordered a brand new set from neweraparts a month ago and the exhaust arrived in Malaysia two weeks ago (80mm at the midpipe, 115mm at the exhaust tip). I also specified for a Zacetec Decat Pipe, which is required to replace the catalytic converter section of the system. This too came in the air freight box from Japan. Big up to Miguel from neweraparts for making all the items fit in a EMS shipment box - otherwise, I'd have to go with another Japanese air freight company and pay more. 

And so without further ado, here are pictures of the unwrapping and installation:

The package was long and huge!

Got a bit excited seeing the Blitz emblem

Factory packaging and bracing to ensure the exhaust is not damaged during transit

The Zacetec Decat Pipe

Getting ready to install the mid pipe

Wonder what lies beneath all that cardboard and plastic?

Isn't she a beauty?

I have to say that I chose well. The exhaust sounds amazing and loud enough to satisfy my inner boy racer fantasies. By removing the silencer, the exhaust is pushing out sounds above 100 decibels. And thanks to the small center cannister, there's absolutely no in-cabin droning, even at high speeds. Very satisfied with Blitz Nur Spec R and I hope to record the sound it makes, sometime this weekend - hopefully on a drive up to Ulu Yam with the boys.