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Review of I-2000 ComputerI did own a 1990 H-reg MX-5, with the only non-standard items on this being a T. W. White & Sons s/s exhaust with the cat removed, which sounded great and gave a wee bit more power. But I needed more - 115bhp is not enough. So I began to look around. After seeing the advertisement in one of the regular motoring mags, I contacted BBR to see exactly what this marvel machine was, and how effective it made your vehicle. Basically, the I-2000 (Interceptor 2000) is a replacement computer for your MX-5. It attaches to your existing ECU (Electronic Control Unit), and intercepts the signals that the ECU send to the fuel injection and breather system. It then alters these to provide additional power, and send the signals on their merry way. Because the MX-5 unit is not chippable, but a sealed unit, this is the only manner in which the computer can be "chipped". So far, so good. But what is it like. I ordered one, then drove up to Northampton in the early hours of the morning for fitting. This apparently takes 3 hours, during which time your existing ECU is removed from the vehicle. The I-2000 is then added by soldering in points to the existing circuit board. It is then replaced in your car with the I-2000 sited in the passenger footwell, and your car is returned after a test drive. Firstly, I would dispute the fitting time. I arrived at 8am as requested, although the car was not worked on for the first hour. The car was eventually returned to me at 3pm, meaning that 6 hours fitting is somewhat nearer the mark. Initially, I was sceptical. The car didn't feel any different, but then I didn't know what to look for. After about a week, the difference was noticeable. Mid range pull was improved, the torque curve seemingly earlier in the rev range and basically it had greater power quicker. Second and third gears were great - the car seemed to be pulling strongly and was exceptionally quick in second. I then drove the car to Devon for a long weekend, where it was apparent that the computer was doing its job. All was well. Then I noticed the two problems I had with the computer, which, I hasten to add, may well have been down to the replacement exhaust system minus the cat. I hadn't noticed this in the first 800 miles after the I-2000 was fitted, but then it may be that it was there. The first was on starting the engine. Every time you turned the key, the engine would fire, and then die immediately. Turn the key again, and all would be well. This happened every time. The second was more apparent. With the car idling, tapping the accelerator would produce a slight misfire before the revs built up. I then spent about �150 getting it computer tested, new sparks and new NGK leads. Nothing worked. Deciding to sell the car to replace it with a brand new 1.8, I asked if BBR could remove the computer and help me out with a replacement for the 1.8 when run in. They had never removed one before, but although this process took about 3-4 hours, all was well. Most important was that on removal of the unit, both the starting problem and the misfire were immediately gone. A computer cannot really go wrong [Huh!: Chris]. Therefore I believe that the problems I encountered were not a fault of the unit, more the non-standard exhaust. Which begs the question as to whether you should have the I-2000 fitted if you have anything non-standard on your car. It could be a long drive and a long wait only to encounter problems. Be warned. In summation, I would recommend this item. The 1.6 increases from 115 to 126bhp, while the 1.8 rises from 130 to 146bhp. This latter item is my next stage - I�ll let you know what I think. BBR state that quite a number of people have had the unit fitted to their MX-5 and they've had no problems. I'd also be interested if anyone does have it fitted and what they think. Quoted price is �495 + VAT, although I paid �395 + VAT.
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