Can a local custom tuner using HP Tuners beat Westers?

[NavyKnight]

Hello,

I am extremely happy with the work of a local amature tuner did on my GXP automatic ECU. HP Tuners was used and we did a couple of tuning sessions for a total of 10 runs. We would do a highway run, then park and tune, over and over until the tuner got it just right. I have heard from other forum members that "the best tune is the tune that keeps getting modified". I have also heard that Westers uses special tools and equipment then simply loads it to HP Tuners as a matter of conveniently sending the tune over the internet.

I now have a peak of 23PSI with a 21PSI sustained. I have not dynoed this car yet, but was wondering if the benchmark for performance gains can be observed by simply using the Boost gauge? Meaning if you boost a sustained 21PSI, is this a reliable indicator that the car is generally faster?

I know there are other factors, but without using a Dyno or 1/4 mile time, can I just be justified in saying that I am faster if my PSI is at 21 sustained?

[sprz31]

More boost does not always mean more power. At a point the turbo is no longer efficient and it is not really gaining any power. In this case yes. Moving from the stock boost to 21 psi I am sure you can feel the difference. A local tuner could do better than one of the westers tunes, but it is exteremly unlikely. I would not want someone tuning my car who does not have a dyno I just dont see a road tune done by an amatuer beating any of our vendors especially westers. IMO if you are happy with his work then that is really all that matters.

[cooler2442]

Personally I think the Wester's tune might be better because Wester's does own a Kappa also and he is able to see what is best for it. If it was my choice I would go with the GMPP + Wester's tune but then I would also take it to a local tuner with a dyno and see what extra power he can extract for it to make it meet your conditions. Those 3 things will get you the best you can get out of a tune basically.