I'm thinking of the WRX's turbo to be more specific but I'm sure the rule applies for everyone,.... My friend has a turbo timer for his 300ZX (which is twin turbo) that was the first thing he bought for it when he got his used car back in the summer... But is it worth it? I mean does he NEED it for a factory installed turbo on his 300ZX?

What about a blow off valve? Will it help performance at all? Will it help cause less wear and tear on the stock turbo installed? Or is it just there to make cool noises?

Can anybody help here? Thanks in advance

a BOV is definitely safer... i would get a turbo timer to actually find out when you are getting the boost you need...hope this helps, ehehe

Firstly, the new WRX, and most factory turbo cars, have BOVs. Just because you don't see a shiny valve and it doesn't make a whoosh sound when you lift the throttle, don't assume it is not there. If you up the stock boost significantly, stock BOVs tend to leak so it may be a good idea to change it then, or if you just want the sound go for it.

In my opinion the turbo timer is not a necessity but it does offer peace of mind. I don't think it makes the car any easier to steal and I have a million and one other things to do so it would be hard for me to remember to elave the car idling for a mnute or whatever every time I stop it. Also, in my case, I live on a hill and I run the car hard up the hill to my house all the time. don't think I have the self control to drive slwly up my hill.

The blow-off valve will keep the turbo spinning...won't stall...no or not as much lag time. The turbo timer is a great way to extend the life of your turbo. Most of the newer timers have security feautures built in.
Zee

One little point. A BOV vents to the atmosphere by definiton. A Bypass, re routes the air into the intake tract after the maf but before the Turbo/Supercharger.

NEVER use a BOV (vent to atmosphere) in a street car. Nothing like burning out the cats and o2 sensors in a hurry, plus a high chance of runnign lean right when you reapply a high load to the motor.

Neither are necessary, but I would recommend a BOV. Not only does it sound cool, but it makes for a healthier system.

Turbo timers are pretty debated...personally, I'll never use one again. I don't like leaving my car on while I walk away for safety reasons (theft and e-brake failure). If you don't drive hard for the last couple minutes before you arrive somewhere, and then just sit in the car, letting it idle for 20 seconds, you'll be fine. Plus, with synthetic oil, you reduce the probability of coking by a lot.

Sean