Stratified Automotive Controls

09/01/2026

Wastegate preload matters more than you might think.

Setting the preload on a pneumatic wastegate actuator is a simple job, but getting it right is critical for consistent boost control and proper turbo operation.

In this video, we walk through how to correctly set wastegate actuator preload using our STR67 turbo for the MK6 GTI as the example (but this applies to any pneumatic wastegate) — including what we’re looking for and why the adjustment matters.

Too little preload can make it difficult to achieve the boost you want. Too much can cause boost spikes post spool. The goal is to give the actuator the correct starting point so the hardware and ECU can work together as intended.

The STR67 uses an adjustable pneumatic actuator, allowing us to properly configure the wastegate for the application and calibration.

We’re big believers that supplying performance parts is only part of the job. Understanding how they work, how to install them correctly, and how to calibrate the complete system is just as important.

Better hardware + Better information = Better results.

08/28/2026

*454 WHP — and still breathing through the factory catback.*

This 2016 Golf R is a great example of what we like about a well-sorted EA888 build: strong power without sacrificing the broad, responsive powerband that makes these cars so effective and fun to drive.

At the heart of the setup is a *Garrett Stage 1 PowerMax* turbo, supported by our Stratified catalog of fueling parts. On E60, we dialed the combination in to 454 WHP, with a wide powerband that carries the performance rather than chasing a single peak number.

Fueling is a big part of making that possible—and much of the system comes directly from us:

* *Stratified 980cc MPI*
* *Stratified Brushless LPFP*
* 4-bar MAP sensor
* Garrett Stage 1 PowerMax
* Full bolt-ons
* OEM catback exhaust

Using the *COBB Accessport* , we calibrated both the ECU and DSG, with the car set up to take advantage of both 93 octane and ethanol fuel.

The result is exactly what we want from a street-focused Golf R: quick response, a huge usable powerband, smooth DSG operation and 454 WHP on E60 when it’s time to turn things up.

It’s also a great demonstration of why we’ve continued developing our own fueling solutions for the EA888 platform. The turbo, MPI, low-pressure fuel system, ECU calibration and DSG calibration all have to work together to create a package that performs as well on the road as the dyno sheet suggests.

08/20/2026

500 WHP from an MK6 GTI — but the number is only part of the story.

At the heart of the setup is the Stratified MK6 turbo upgrade, capable of supporting 500+ WHP while delivering full boost around 3,500 RPM. We wanted a turbo that didn’t force you to choose between response and top-end power — because a great street car needs both.

But airflow is only one side of the equation.

We’re also introducing the latest evolution of our MK6 auxiliary fueling system: twin port injection. With two additional port injectors per runner, we’ve expanded the fueling capability available to support higher-output builds and ethanol fuels while retaining the flexibility and control we want from a properly engineered fuel system.

Then we bring it all together with calibration via COBB Tuning Accessport.

Turbo sizing, fueling, boost control, engine management and supporting hardware all need to work as a system. In this video we explain the hardware, show you how it performs, and walk through our approach to building an MK6 capable of reaching the 500 WHP level without turning it into a compromised dyno car.

We’ve been developing, tuning and supporting the MK6 platform for years. This package takes everything we’ve learned and applies it to what we think a modern high-output MK6 should be:

500+ WHP capability.
Full boost by ~3,500 RPM.
Twin port auxiliary fueling.
Street-focused response and drivability.
One complete, proven approach.

The MK6 may not be the newest GTI anymore, but we’re definitely not finished developing it.

08/14/2026

MK6 People, we have the 500WHP recipe - and it's right here!

In this video, we take a deep dive into our latest MK6 GTI developm...

07/28/2026

Introducing two smart solutions for some of the most common MK6 and MK7 VW/Audi turbocharger issues.

K04 Upgraded Wastegate Actuator

- Direct bolt-on upgrade for transverse EA888 & EA113 K04 turbos
- Available with 0.8, 1.0 (pre-installed), and 1.2 bar springs
- Faster boost response and improved top-end boost control
- Custom tuning available from Stratified

EA888 Gen 3 Electronic Wastegate Actuator

- OEM-grade replacement for IS12, IS20 & IS38 turbos
- Replace a failed actuator without replacing the entire turbocharger
- Direct-fit solution with OEM-like operation

Whether you’re looking to improve performance or repair a failed actuator, we’ve got you covered.

Available now at www.stratifiedauto.com.

K04

07/22/2026

Sometimes the best turbo upgrade... is no turbo upgrade at all.

This 2019 STI proves just how rewarding a well-sorted stock turbo setup can be.

Rather than chasing a larger turbo right off the bat, the goal was to maximize the potential of the factory unit while preserving the quick spool and immediate response that make the EJ feel alive and eager.

The build includes:
• COBB Flex Fuel
• AEM low-pressure fuel pump
• Injector Dynamics 1050 injectors
• Intake
• Intercooler
• Exhaust

After installing the parts, using the COBB Accessport, we developed custom calibrations for both pump gas and E50, giving the owner the flexibility to run either fuel. During the summer, it’s as simple as filling up with ethanol and enjoying the additional performance.

The result?

Nearly 370 WHP on our dyno with a responsive, broad powerband that makes the car feel alive everywhere—not just at peak RPM.

A stock turbo, when supported by the right hardware and a well-developed tune, is an a super fun combination. Quick to spool, eager to respond, and more than capable of putting a smile on your face every time you drive it.

That’s the beauty of a properly engineered Flex Fuel setup: everyday convenience when you need it, and substantially more performance when you want it.

07/16/2026

One of our local customers settings some impressive times in his FK8 - we tuned this car on Hondata to be able to handle track abuse and stay resilient.

https://youtu.be/DX1vZl9f3Qc?si=ryJX_Rg43DI1j-yh

2019 Honda Civic Type R FK8

Mods/Parts List

PRL Intake + Street MAF
Invidia Catless Downpipe
Armytrix Frontpipe
Armytrix Catback
HKS Oil Cooler

Swift Springs
LE ADS Module
Bridgestone RE71RZ - 275/35/18 Front
Bridgestone RE71RZ - 255/35/18 Rear
RAYS Volk Racing TE37SL - 18 x 9.5J +38
AP Racing CP 9665 BBK
PMU 999 Brake Pads (Front)
PMU Club Racer Brake Pads (Rear)
Stock Rear Rotors

Mugen Steering Wheel (350mm)
Works Bell Rapfix Quick Release
Works Bell Rapfix Short Boss/Hub
Works Bell SRD Relocation Kit
Acuity Short Shifter
Chasing Js Titanium shift k**b
Mugen MS-R Racing Bucket Seats

Mugen Front lip
Mugen Side Skirts
Mugen Diffuser
Mugen Window Visors
Voltex Type 2 Rear Spoiler
Varis Style CF Hood
HPT Cooling Plate

Instagram: .fk8Car was bouncing all over the place, maybe i...

07/12/2026

OEM+ doesn't mean stock. It means everything works together.

Daniel's MK7.5 Golf R came to us with a clear goal: retain the refinement and drivability that make the platform so enjoyable, while unlocking performance on a different level.

The build is deceptively subtle:
- Garrett G25-660 turbo (PMax Stg2)
- Factory MPI with 980cc injectors
- FlexFuel
- Brushless low-pressure fuel pump
- OEM intake
- OEM cat-back exhaust

Even the turbo speed was monitored, allowing us to calibrate the engine to stay within the turbo's safe operating range while extracting excellent performance.

Using the COBB Tuning Accessport, we developed both the ECU and DSG calibrations in-house, delivering a car that drives like a factory Golf R during everyday commuting, yet transforms the moment you squeeze the throttle.

425 WHP on pump gas.
516 WHP on E50.

The numbers are impressive, but what makes this build special is how composed it feels and the attention to detail. Predictable throttle response. Refined shifting. OEM-level drivability with substantially more performance.

This is what OEM+ means to us: respecting the engineering that made the Golf R great while thoughtfully and thoroughly extending its capabilities.

06/29/2026

Your car. Your sound.

Our latest Focus ST overrun feature lets you choose the crackle profile that matches your mood—all from the 5 map slots on the COBB Tuning Accessport.

Live on stratifiedauto now!

• Quiet for the daily commute
• Mild burbles for spirited driving
• Aggressive crackles when you want to turn heads

Switch between them in seconds without reflashing the ECU.

We also generate these sounds without adding extra fuel, helping keep exhaust temperatures under control while delivering the character you’re after.

More control. More flexibility. Pure Stratified.

06/18/2026

Fueling without compromise.

Our EcoBoost Auxiliary Fuel Kit is designed to provide all the fueling capacity most Focus ST, Focus RS, Fiesta ST, and EcoBoost Mustang builds need while maintaining OEM-like integration and drivability.

The system adds supplemental port injection using our in-house designed controller and a complete plug-and-play harness that integrates directly with the factory vehicle wiring.

Beyond controlling the additional injectors, the controller also reads ethanol content, making it an ideal solution for ethanol blends, larger turbochargers, and higher horsepower applications.

Compared to upgrading the factory direct injection pump and injectors, auxiliary port injection offers a more cost-effective path to increased fueling capacity while providing the added benefit of helping keep intake valves clean.

Simple installation. OEM-level integration. Serious fueling capability.

This is fueling done the Stratified way.