Episode 2 - 14.4MB WMV
After establishing performance benchmarks on the Audi project car, it was time to get down to making this machine work better. The boys at APR got down to business installing a stage 1 ECU upgrade. The technology that APR utilized was simply amazing. For the chip installation, APR connected directly to the cars ECU through the diagnostics port and were able to Reflash the ECU, avoiding the need to physically remove the chip. The program was actually uploaded from the APR server via the internet. This is a great way for APR to keep track of all the pertinent info regarding their ECU installs because all the programming is stored on their servers. The chip provided a small upgrade in power without taking away from the drivability of the car.

Episode 3 - 12.7MB WMV
Continuing the mission to make our Audi work better, we moved up another level. The APR boys installed a stage 2 package, upgrading to larger fuel injectors and further programming the ECU. The upgraded chip programming further displayed APR’s commitment to cutting edge technology. The programming features EMCS or Enhanced Modular Chipping System. This programming allows the driver to toggle through different modes on their chip, including chipped mode, stock settings, multiple octane settings and valet mode for power limiting. All of which is readily available through the car’s cruise control button, without interrupting the use of the cruise feature.

Episode 4 - 17.3MB WMV
Continuing the Stage 2 upgrade APR moved to the underbelly of our beast and got down to upgrading the exhaust. They hooked the Audi up with a stainless steel dual exit exhaust.

Episode 5 - 16.2MB WMV
With our Audi progressing nicely it was time to get a serious boost. APR got serious with a Stage 3 upgrade, removing the stock turbo and replacing it with a large APR turbo. The manifold also came out in favour of APR’s manifold upgrade made of inconel an exotic metal that will relieve you from having to deal with cracking and such. The plumbing to and from the turbo was also upgraded. To handle the extra power now being generated, the boys from APR installed a new heavy duty clutch disc, flywheel and pressure pate package.

Episode 6 - 14.6MB WMV
With APR wrapping up their work on the Audi’s Engine, it was time for STaSIS Engineering to aid in the transfer of our A4’s newly found pep to the ground. The first step was a suspension upgrade which consisted of new Ohlins remote reservoir struts. These units, patterned after the Ohlins race struts do a much better job of keeping the Audi level in turns and thereby keeping the tires more firmly planted on the ground. Other components included Ohlins Adjustable Lightweight aluminum Dampers, STaSIS Double Digressive Valving, STaSIS Mounting Hardware, and Hyperco Linear Rate Springs.

Episode 7 - 19.5MB WMV
Obviously with the increased go in our project Audi, we needed to counter that with a corresponding increase in our ability to stop. STaSIS employed Alcon Mono-Block 4-piston calipers mated to 13” or 14” Brembo floating race rotors. This package generates improved pedal feel and caliper response with 4 differential piston bores and utilizes Advanced Retraction Seal technology for the ultimate in caliper reaction time.

Episode 8 - 14.7MB WMV
STaSIS’ attention turned next to the stiffening of the A4 chassis. They implemented an H-sport stabilizer bar only in the rear due to the fact that the B6 chassis platform is over 60% stiffer torsionally than the previous audi platform.

Episode 9 - 12.8MB WMV
Rear LSD and Centre Differential work was up next. STaSIS installed their clutch-type limited slip differential. This LSD is preset for optimum breakaway torque and allows you to continue to put torque to the rear wheels despite traction issues or wheel lift. Next STaSIS installed their High Bias center Torsen Differential, converting the A4 from 2:1 to 4:1 allowing for an increase from 66% to 80% in torque distribution of the center Torsen.

Episode 10 - 15.7MB WMV
Now that STaSIS had the power translating to the wheels, it was time that the rubber received its due attention. Andrew Kantor from Wheel & Tire Zone replaced the stock Dunlop 235/40ZR18 tires with a set of 255/35ZR18 ‘R’ compound Dunlops, maintaining the original diameter of the tires but increasing the width.

Episode 11 - 15.3MB WMV
The Audi Ultrasport A4, although it resembled what first rolled into our possession, it had come a long way with the work of APR and StaSIS. Colin Harmer reappeared, toting his STACK data Acquisition equipment to gauge just how far our project car had come.

Episode 12 - 11.6MB WMV
We revisited and celebrated Audi competition through the years looking at Audi Motorsports programs from past to present. We finished with the Audi SPEED World Challenge programs – the 2004 Championship RS6’s as well as an introduction to the 2005 Audi A4 Touring Car program.

Episode 13 - 12.9MB WMV
We invited all involved to come and test drive the complete A4. The transition was astounding to those who know the performance levels of the factory A4. Then came the decals, detail and delivery of the Audi to Fred Baker. Fred will display it in his showroom in Cleveland, Ohio as well as showcase it at the Cleveland Auto Show in late February. The guys from STaSIS Engineering and APR, along with their suppliers, helped to document the conversion of a great little A4 into a phenomenal street/track performer.