is it possible to install a turbo without having new software for it? Is there a turbo kit out there that doesn't use a special software for it?

 

To my understanding it is necessary to have your ecu reflashed (hondata flash pro) on top of upgraded intercooler, piping etc. for the increase combustion that your engine will generate from the forced induction. If you have the money go for it

 

You can install the turbo without programming at all with no problem.

And yes, there are several turbo's that don't have tuning software included, you can find those on ebay.

Of course that doesn't mean it's going to run properly once you install it. Forced induction should never be half-assed. If you're going to boost, do it right.

 

So does "doing it right" entail ecu tuning then? I wouldn't trust ebay turbo kits...

 

Doing it right means doing your research, building up/selecting an appropriate turbo kit, constructing your motor accordingly, and finally fine tuning a myriad of parameters. Many hours and dollars spent to get it right.

OP's question was referring to the impossibility of installing a turbo. There is no such impossibility. He can slap that turbo on his car, however it will not run properly, but he can indeed install it.

 

possible, yes. advisable, no.

 

Think of it like this. Some dude buys a body kit and instalss it but doesn't have the cash to get it painted. Do you really wanna be that guy? Might as well go for the gusto and have everything lined up.

 

Perfect example!

 

That "special software" is required because a turbo setup cannot run (correctly or at all) on the stock ECU settings. So, no, there is not.

Anytime you install forced induction on a car that previously did not have it, the engine must learn/be told how to respond to the changes brought on by the setup (power levels, heat levels, etc.). Otherwise, engine = time-bomb.