Tri-Point Supercharger DIY Installation Notes - LotusTalk

Dave · 08-09-2006, 09:30 AM

This sub-topic is dedicated to my 'do-it-yourself' installation of the Tri-Point Supercharger (kit form).

I have no connection with Tri-Point whatsoever. I did not receive any discount, compensation, or any other incentive to write this install review. It's written totally on my own and done for the benefit of ET members...nothing more. I'm going to call everything as I see it with the kit, good or bad. I paid $4500 + shipping for the kit.

I'm not a master mechanic. I'm a weekend home garage tool-turning guy with average mechanical abilities. I have an extensive electronics background however, that might come in a handy with the Xede. What I'm trying to say is, if you're an average mechanic or better, then you should be able to do this install too.

What's in the kit...

Dave · 08-09-2006, 04:56 PM

So here are a few close up pictures. Weight of the Greddy blower is 20lbs, and the entire kit weighs in at 27lbs. Of course, that's not the actual weight gain, as some items will be swapped out. The installation guide is 11 pages, has loads of illustrations, and seems geared toward the layperson...I'm impressed so far.

Dave · 08-09-2006, 05:01 PM

And the Xede. I'll be swapping out my updated 5750 crossover ECU for a non-learning 5750 to avoid conflict with the piggy. Note: The chip does learn, it just doesn't remember anything after you switch off the key so nothing's permanent. Also note, the non-learning chip is not included in the kit price above. This Xede has similar parameters to Frank's car, as we share most of the same mods, ie headers, FF intake, catless, etc.

Dave · 08-11-2006, 07:19 AM

Quick update on the progress...what I've had time to do so far:

Removed boot lid, wheel/liner, diffuser, rearmost under tray, engine covers.
Nitrous system pulled - I'll miss that.

Throttle body (Thor) removed and sent to shop for porting with the SC manifold, back today.
Spark plugs gapped and replaced with cooler ones (included in kit).
Dismounted fuse boxes and ECU...swapped chip with non-learning.

Next: Remove stock intake manifold and move alternator with brackets supplied.

Dave · 08-11-2006, 08:34 AM

** Thread is now open for all to post comments/questions **

MaineLotus · 08-11-2006, 08:39 AM

Yahoo! Can't wait to see how this goes!

Is the non-learning ECU included with the kit? Does it require a chip swap?

uglyduck · 08-11-2006, 08:40 AM

Looking forward to seeing the progress. I was planning to SC my car this winter and am anxious to see the results of the Tri-Point kit.

darkSol · 08-11-2006, 08:41 AM

Great writeup so far Dave!

Hey, would Tri-Point mind if the installation instructions were scanned/posted up here...or is there anyone from Tri-Point online here that could post a PDF? (looks like a simple Word doc)...

Did you have a before dyno done/available? Without NO2 of course...

Oh... more pictures! Need more info! Nah... I'm not pumped...

BTW, I'm literally checking this post several times a day for updates...

Thanks!

bluejae · 08-11-2006, 08:42 AM

why not SC and NOS?

speaking of NOS... they have an energy drink now... lol

Shiftlock · 08-11-2006, 08:48 AM

When I inquired with Tripoint, they said that engine management is done with the Xede and a non-learning ECU chip. So, I assume Tripoint offers a non-learning chip with the kit, and you just didn't need it since you have your own version of non-learning chip, right? If so, is there any difference between their non-learning chip and yours? Did you share the code with them, or did they create it on their own?

Also, I still don't understand why a non-learning chip is required if the piggyback is properly tuned.

darkSol · 08-11-2006, 08:58 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Shiftlock

Also, I still don't understand why a non-learning chip is required if the piggyback is properly tuned.

I don't understand why a piggyback is required if the non-learning chip is properly tuned

It would definitely save time and money!

choi0706 · 08-11-2006, 09:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Shiftlock

When I inquired with Tripoint, they said that engine management is done with the Xede and a non-learning ECU chip. So, I assume Tripoint offers a non-learning chip with the kit, and you just didn't need it since you have your own version of non-learning chip, right? If so, is there any difference between their non-learning chip and yours? Did you share the code with them, or did they create it on their own?

Also, I still don't understand why a non-learning chip is required if the piggyback is properly tuned.

it doesn't matter which piggy-back ecu is put on.. the lotus ecu will fight it by "learning" with this non learning ecu chip it shouldn't fight the tuning.. so I'm assuming the greddy emanage ultimate will work as well if the non learning chip is put into the lotus ecu.. for me, I'm waiting for littlerocket's apexi powerfc..

just retuning the celica gts engine with a intake shows gains of 20ft/lbs at 3500rpms..

Dave · 08-11-2006, 09:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by darkSol

Great writeup so far Dave!

Hey, would Tri-Point mind if the installation instructions were scanned/posted up here...or is there anyone from Tri-Point online here that could post a PDF? (looks like a simple Word doc)...

The final instructions aren't done yet. The ones they sent me are somewhat of a well-organized rough draft. I'm providing input back to them for refinement, from the DIY installers point of view.

Quote:

Did you have a before dyno done/available? Without NO2 of course...

Yes, one from about 6 months ago.

Quote:

Is the non-learning ECU included with the kit? Does it require a chip swap?

The chip is available from Tri-Point. I didn't order as I market the exact same chip. Jay's response is correct above regarding the non-learning issues...a direct replacement for the stock ECU (flash memory) is not available as of yet

Dave · 08-11-2006, 09:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Shiftlock

When I inquired with Tripoint, they said that engine management is done with the Xede and a non-learning ECU chip. So, I assume Tripoint offers a non-learning chip with the kit, and you just didn't need it since you have your own version of non-learning chip, right?

Correct

Quote:

If so, is there any difference between their non-learning chip and yours? Did you share the code with them, or did they create it on their own?

Our code comes from a common programmer and is almost identical.

Bruce · 08-11-2006, 09:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dave

Weight of the Greddy blower is 20lbs, and the entire kit weighs in at 27lbs.

Reggie said the installed weight increase was 23 lbs. Do any of those brackets help support the SC or is it only supported with the 5 intake manifold studs?

I guess that machined billet piece is the alternator bracket?

What is the diameter of the SC pulley?

Are you putting a boost gauge and where are you going to tap in manifold?

Thanks.

choi0706 · 08-11-2006, 10:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bruce

Reggie said the installed weight increase was 23 lbs. Do any of those brackets help support the SC or is it only supported with the 5 intake manifold studs?

I guess that machined billet piece is the alternator bracket?

What is the diameter of the SC pulley?

Are you putting a boost gauge and where are you going to tap in manifold?

Thanks.

The manifold has a nipple that can be tee'd off for a boost gauge signal..

Bruce · 08-11-2006, 10:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by choi0706

The manifold has a nipple that can be tee'd off for a boost gauge signal..

That one that's under the manifold? What's that used for now, a vacuum line to the bypass valve?

choi0706 · 08-11-2006, 10:23 AM

maybe for the oem airbox? there is a nipple on the side of the oem manifold for the airbox.. either way, it can be tee'd off for a boost signal..

edit.. it seems it was there for the bypass valve.. but could be tee'd off for signal

dma550 · 08-11-2006, 10:28 AM

heh, I was one of the masses that suggest Dave open this thread for comments, lest his full time job turn into PM answerer.

So, subscribing now, and may I say

darkSol · 08-11-2006, 10:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bruce

Reggie said the installed weight increase was 23 lbs.

In the 2nd post above Dave says that the Greddy supercharger is 20lbs. (BTW, the stock intake manifold is 11lbs. a net weight increase of 9lbs. (see reference HERE).

That calculates to 7 lbs. left over + 9 lb. supercharger difference = a 16 lb. weight increase - or LESS...
(not counting removing the stock spark plugs, injectors and the like that get replaced with the 27lb. kit)...

Just wondering... I'd LOVE it if came in under 15lbs. Can you imagine a 50whp increase for 15lbs?

Hey Dave, weigh everything that comes off the car as well... if I wasn't here in Kansas City I'd be over at your house, helping you wrench!

08-09-2006, 09:30 AM	#1 (permalink)
Dave OhioLotus.com Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Ohio Posts: 3,133	Tri-Point Supercharger DIY Installation Notes This sub-topic is dedicated to my 'do-it-yourself' installation of the Tri-Point Supercharger (kit form). I have no connection with Tri-Point whatsoever. I did not receive any discount, compensation, or any other incentive to write this install review. It's written totally on my own and done for the benefit of ET members...nothing more. I'm going to call everything as I see it with the kit, good or bad. I paid $4500 + shipping for the kit. I'm not a master mechanic. I'm a weekend home garage tool-turning guy with average mechanical abilities. I have an extensive electronics background however, that might come in a handy with the Xede. What I'm trying to say is, if you're an average mechanic or better, then you should be able to do this install too. What's in the kit... Attached Images __________________ Discount Lotus OEM Parts: OhioLotus.com Last edited by Dave : 04-12-2008 at 08:08 AM.

08-09-2006, 04:56 PM	#2 (permalink)
Dave OhioLotus.com Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Ohio Posts: 3,133	So here are a few close up pictures. Weight of the Greddy blower is 20lbs, and the entire kit weighs in at 27lbs. Of course, that's not the actual weight gain, as some items will be swapped out. The installation guide is 11 pages, has loads of illustrations, and seems geared toward the layperson...I'm impressed so far. Attached Images __________________ Discount Lotus OEM Parts: OhioLotus.com

08-09-2006, 05:01 PM	#3 (permalink)
Dave OhioLotus.com Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Ohio Posts: 3,133	And the Xede. I'll be swapping out my updated 5750 crossover ECU for a non-learning 5750 to avoid conflict with the piggy. Note: The chip does learn, it just doesn't remember anything after you switch off the key so nothing's permanent. Also note, the non-learning chip is not included in the kit price above. This Xede has similar parameters to Frank's car, as we share most of the same mods, ie headers, FF intake, catless, etc. Attached Images __________________ Discount Lotus OEM Parts: OhioLotus.com Last edited by Dave : 12-12-2006 at 05:34 AM.

08-11-2006, 07:19 AM	#4 (permalink)
Dave OhioLotus.com Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Ohio Posts: 3,133	Quick update on the progress...what I've had time to do so far: Removed boot lid, wheel/liner, diffuser, rearmost under tray, engine covers. Nitrous system pulled - I'll miss that. Throttle body (Thor) removed and sent to shop for porting with the SC manifold, back today. Spark plugs gapped and replaced with cooler ones (included in kit). Dismounted fuse boxes and ECU...swapped chip with non-learning. Next: Remove stock intake manifold and move alternator with brackets supplied. __________________ Discount Lotus OEM Parts: OhioLotus.com

08-11-2006, 08:34 AM	#5 (permalink)
Dave OhioLotus.com Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Ohio Posts: 3,133	Thread is now open for all to post comments/questions __________________ Discount Lotus OEM Parts: OhioLotus.com

08-11-2006, 08:39 AM	#6 (permalink)
MaineLotus Parts scattered about... Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Maine Posts: 1,418	Yahoo! Can't wait to see how this goes! Is the non-learning ECU included with the kit? Does it require a chip swap? __________________ My car is modified.

08-11-2006, 08:40 AM	#7 (permalink)
uglyduck Registered User Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Toronto Posts: 624	Looking forward to seeing the progress. I was planning to SC my car this winter and am anxious to see the results of the Tri-Point kit.

08-11-2006, 08:41 AM	#8 (permalink)
darkSol Meow!! Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Leawood, KS Posts: 2,602	Great writeup so far Dave! Hey, would Tri-Point mind if the installation instructions were scanned/posted up here...or is there anyone from Tri-Point online here that could post a PDF? (looks like a simple Word doc)... Did you have a before dyno done/available? Without NO2 of course... Oh... more pictures! Need more info! Nah... I'm not pumped... BTW, I'm literally checking this post several times a day for updates... Thanks! __________________ d.a..v...i....d David Thomas Stewart - davidtstewart@gmail.com TVS Supercharged 2005 Graphite Grey Lotus Elise: 286whp, 1781lbs. Lotus cars aren't made, they're hand built from dreams. If you must choose between two evils, pick the one you've never tried before.

08-11-2006, 08:42 AM	#9 (permalink)
bluejae Registered User Join Date: Jun 2005 Posts: 2,078	why not SC and NOS? speaking of NOS... they have an energy drink now... lol __________________ KG Exige Delivered 5-9-2006 POLL:check for scratches "in" your headlights Excessive tire wear? It may be your alignment My Example Hiro's Example codymac's Example to be installed: stebel horn, fumoto valve current mods: arqray twin muffler, itg intake, 3M film full wrap and full rockers by X-Perts, rear lotus letters removed, locking gas cap, CF Mirror Covers, CF Side Scoops, black lotus nose/wheel badges future mods:wheels, forced induction

08-11-2006, 08:48 AM	#10 (permalink)
Shiftlock Fed Elise #242, Now Turbo Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Stamford, CT Posts: 1,712	When I inquired with Tripoint, they said that engine management is done with the Xede and a non-learning ECU chip. So, I assume Tripoint offers a non-learning chip with the kit, and you just didn't need it since you have your own version of non-learning chip, right? If so, is there any difference between their non-learning chip and yours? Did you share the code with them, or did they create it on their own? Also, I still don't understand why a non-learning chip is required if the piggyback is properly tuned.

08-11-2006, 10:23 AM	#18 (permalink)
choi0706 Registered User Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: Houston/Austin Posts: 4,254	maybe for the oem airbox? there is a nipple on the side of the oem manifold for the airbox.. either way, it can be tee'd off for a boost signal.. edit.. it seems it was there for the bypass valve.. but could be tee'd off for signal __________________ Jay-05' ST, HT, Touring Red Rally Ready Last edited by choi0706 : 08-11-2006 at 11:04 AM.

08-11-2006, 10:28 AM	#19 (permalink)
dma550 Registered User Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: CT, Shoreline area Posts: 1,214	heh, I was one of the masses that suggest Dave open this thread for comments, lest his full time job turn into PM answerer. So, subscribing now, and may I say __________________ David Avery 09 Porsche 911 TT Cab \| 05 Lotus Elise SOLD \| 08 BMW 135i Stock visit Spyderclub.com

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