Instrumentation consists of additional Autometer boost gauge, oil temp, large tachometer and thermocouple monitor to read EGT, which is critical for Dahlback's tuning. This is one of those rare cars where the entire 10,000 rpm range on the tach is used: Peak power comes at 8000 rpm, right where the factory tach stops. Manual toggle controls for the auxiliary fans which cope with the additional heat are now located in place of the sunroof controls.
Dahlback teamed up with KW Suspensions to create a specific spring and valving combination for the Variant II suspension. Mintex sway bars front and back were installed along with Mintex pads. Front braking was upgraded to a 13-in. Stoptech four-piston system, stuffed behind 17-in. BBS CH wheels. Even the Bridgestone RE 540S tires are a Dahlback exclusive, available in North America only through TJM.
The most critical part of McLean's A4 and Dahlback Racing's technology is the engine management. Most cars making this amount of power are controlled by stand-alone engine management systems, if not piggyback controllers. Dahlback's cars all run on Bosch ECUs, sensors, injectors and, in this case, a Bosch N75K boost control solenoid. To reduce flow restriction, the ECU was reprogrammed to operate as a speed-density controller instead of relying on a MAF. Depending on the application, Dahlback has ECUs that also uses MAFs for lower power applications.
Staying with the mentality of keeping things simple and using proven technologies, Dahlback's ECU tuning relies on four basic parameters: EGT, N75 pulse width, boost pressure and knock sensor activity. By logging these parameters throughout the rpm band, Dahlback and TJM custom tune all their cars for optimal performance. Instead of hiding their ECU modifications, Dahlback Racing clearly marks their ECUs and chips and encourages cooperation with vehicle dealers to develop a product that is also supported by the manufacturers.
The impression left by TJM Motorsport and Dahlback Racing far exceeds what you see in this silver A4. The level of thought and design that's gone into all aspects of their service has lent needed vigor to European technology and tuning expertise in North America. Think of Dahlback's tuning philosophy as a catered meal compared to the fast food that many U.S. "tuners" dish out. Everything from the motor oil to the tires are already tested and proven for the customer. And the hardware reflects a lot of thought to future upgrades with minimal replacement of existing parts. Check in to see how Dahlback fares in our upcoming berGolf Challenge.
EngineType2.0-liter turbocharged in-line four, dohc 20V, fuel-injected
Power Output530 bhp @ 7400 rpm500 lb-ft of torque @ 5200 rpm
Internal ModificationsARP rod bolts, Dahlback crankshaft, rings, rods, modified oil pan, headwork, valves, springs, retainers, intake manifold, and Dahlback spec cams built by Schrick
External ModificationsIsolated fuel cell and relocated battery with enclosure, oil cooler, additional cooling system parts, Dahlback fuel pump, regulator, wastegate, dump valve, exhaust manifold, exhaust system, front mount intercooler, and Dahlback spec K26/27 hybrid turbo
Engine Management ModificationsDahlback chip, upgraded injectors
DrivetrainDrivetrain ModificationsSix-speed RS2 transmission, Dahlback twin-disc clutch built by Sachs, steel flywheel, and custom shift linkage
SuspensionDahlback spec KW Variant II, Mintex anti-rollbars
BrakesFront: 13 in. Stoptech four-piston, Mintex Pads, stainless-steel braided brake lines Rear: Cross-drilled Brembo rotors, Mintex Pads, stainless-steel braided brake lines
WheelsBBS CH polished, 8.5x17 front/rear
TiresBridgestone RE540S, 225/45R17
BodyModified RS4 front bumper, Fiber Images carbon-fiber hood, custom rear deck spoiler, custom carbon-fiber sunroof insert
InteriorSparco EVO II seats, rollcage, fuel cell, trunk fire suppression system, Autometer tachometer, oil pressure and boost gauge