AWE Tuning Diverter Valve Kit, TSW Alloy Wheels - Latest Gear - European Car Magazine

Product Spotlight
AWE Tuning Diverter Valve Kit
Mechanical diverter valve replacements are nothing new. If you own a 2.0T FSI you are in one of two groups: those who have had diverter valve problems or the lucky few who haven't. For those who haven't yet experienced diverter valve failure, keep reading, because it could still happen to you. The reasons for failure are speculative at best, and even VW and Audi have made several revisions to combat the problem with some success, but the issue hasn't been completely solved.

AWE Tuning isn't the first company to tackle the DV issue but it is the first to offer a less complicated installation solution that offers the needed reliability. Some have come up with elaborate valves, while other companies offer complicated solutions that require a complete redesign of the entire intake system. What makes the AWE kit unique is that the main components are factory-spec on vehicles that produce three times the power. In addition to these factory parts, AWE developed a plug-and-play electronic DV simulator so you don't have to keep the stock valve hanging around to prevent a check engine light.

The AWE kit includes the diverter valve assembly (three-bolt flange adapter with vacuum connection, heavy duty spring, and metal piston with integrated diaphragm), electronic diverter valve simulator with OEM plug, T-fitting, hoses, zip ties and clamps.

I've been lucky so far with my project A3 (knock on wood) and have had zero DV issues-which is incredible considering the amount of power and torque running through the engine on a daily basis. But about four weeks ago I received a box from AWE containing its new diverter valve kit for the 2.0T FSI. Over the past month scheduling conflicts and a recurring coolant leak have prevented me from installing the kit. The next month was hectic and I wasn't in the same place long enough to do the job... excuses, excuses. So when I got the kit I wasn't in my usual rush to install it in the parking lot with my Swiss army knife.

Fast forward. My coolant issues were finally fixed and with a free weekend ahead I decided to install the DV kit. Since the vehicle is equipped with AWE's K04 turbo kit the install was a little more complicated than if it was equipped with a standard K03. When I installed the AWE K04 kit I was a bit concerned about the way the kit relocated the factory DV, since it was a bit close to the A/C line, but with the new DV's smaller external profile the problem was solved.

The only flaw I found was the large T-tap supplied in the kit. It proved fragile, resulting in the part's destruction as soon as the vacuum line was installed. While the T-tap's failure caused some frustration, it wasn't enough to take away from the kit's simple-to-install description. During installation I had a chance to compare the factory DV to the AWE kit, and was amazed to find that the spring found inside the factory DV looked more like something you'd find in a ballpoint pen, not a high-performance turbocharged engine.

The best thing about installing an upgrade without preconceived notions of its performance is when it performs as advertised-or better. The AWE DV kit was one of the upgrades where the results surprised me; the vehicle felt more alive and power delivery was more insistent and precise. So if you're having problems with your diverter valve, or you just want the added reliability, the AWE Tuning DV kit is worth every penny. Pricing is $129.95 for the newer 2.0 TFSI (add $39.95 for the five-ply silicone boost tap hose). -Anthony Gelinas

AWE Tuning
888.565.2257
www.awe-tuning.com

Wheel Of The Month
Named for the renowned race circuit in the UK, TSW's Mallory is designed with hard lines and angle cuts for a bold presentation of its multi-spoke pattern. Like all TSW wheels, the Mallory is hub-centric for a smooth, vibration-free ride, and engineered to strict manufacturing standards while maintaining the lightest possible weight. It is available in both four- and five-lug patterns , and both high and low offsets from 20 to 45mm. It also comes in an array of sizes: 6.5x17, 7x16, 7x17, 8x17, 8x18, 8x19, and 8.5x20. The finish is silver with a brilliant machine-cut face.
TSW Alloy Wheels
800.479.9332
www.tsw.com

Based on the factory wing that was standard equipment on the European Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM, Evosport's DTM wing for the new CLK63 AMG is ideal for the customer who wants aggressive styling while maintaining a factory look and function. Unlike that wing, however, which was constructed from fiberglass, Evosport's updated version is formed from ultra lightweight, ultra strong carbon fiber. The cambered airfoil wing element sits 6.25 inches above the boot lid, and replaces the factory trunk lip spoiler. In addition to the AMG, it also fits all other W209 CLK coupe or cabriolet models. It comes with a matte or gloss clearcoat finish and can easily be painted-fully or partially-for a unique appearance.
Evosport
888.520.9971
www.evosport.com

Borla, purveyor of a wide range of performance exhausts, has created a custom, high-end cleaner/polish specially formulated to restore the original factory shine to stainless steel exhaust systems. Combining state-of-the-art cleaning solutions in a revolutionary formula, the Exhaust Cleaner & Polish helps remove colorization and cuts through layers of dulling oxides safely and easily. Simply apply and buff off for a world-class finish and added protection from the elements.
Borla Performance Industries
877.GO. BORLA
www.borla.com

According to the company, Neuspeed's front-mount intercooler kit for the Audi TT 2.0T requires absolutely no drilling, cutting or trimming of the bumper cover or metal bumper structure, making it the only true bolt-on front-mount kit available. It includes CNC mandrel-bent aluminum piping with a wrinkle powdercoat finish, constant tension hose clamps, silicone hose couplers and all necessary mounting hardware. The core uses a highly efficient bar-and-plate design capped with flow-tested cast aluminum end tanks.
Neuspeed
805.388.7171
www.neuspeed.com

Stack's Multi Function Display (MFD) data acquisition system features a fast, accurate stepper-motor analog tachometer with an integrated LED shift light, and a user-configurable digital LCD display capable of supporting two to six total parameters per page, with user-definable warnings and an internal LED warning light for maximum driver alert. Hardware specs include a lightweight yet rigid carbon composite casing, shatterproof glass, mil-spec connectors, a shielded pre-terminated harness assembly with sure seal connectors, and waterproofing to IP67 standards. It comes with 14 standard inputs, enough to handle most driver inputs, but can be expanded to monitor up to 45 channels for more advanced users.
Stack Inc.
888.867.5183
www.stackinc.com

Bringing together sophisticated design, power adaptivity, and the company's signature durability, Snap-on's EPIQ is a tool storage unit designed for the 21st Century. Special features include the PowerBank, a lockable vertical drawer bank with built-in power access for recharging electric tools and batteries, plus dedicated space to organize cordless and air-powered tools. EPIQ's PowerTop is a stainless steel work surface with an integrated power source, and its four-sided, raised lip edge is designed to keep items on the work surface where they belong. Trademark InPulse drawers open with a simple motion and feature 10 bends for a flush front and uncompromised strength. And finally there's the ISO-RIDE 7-inch swivel-lock mag wheels with independent torsion spring suspension for a smooth, superior ride.
Snap-on Tools
877.740.1900
www.snapon.com