How does a manual boost controller work?

[BLACK MAGIC RACING]

I was wondering, how exactly does this work? i've had a mease dp w/ integrated wastegate, adjustable regulator, and computer controlled solenoid, and was wondering which of these parts would be eliminated with a man. controller? With a manual controller, is the boost at full as soon as it spools up? does it have to stay that way? Thanks guys!

 

[Turbo6inKY]

A manual boost controller usually is nothing more than a valve with a spring on it. Manifold pressure acts on a diaphram (usually a steel ball) which presses against the spring. When there's enough pressure in the manifold, the ball gets pushed past an opening, the pressure goes through the valve and acts on the wastegate actuator, opening the wastegate.

What you have is far superior. MBCs are generally crap. No feedback, wide variations in boost through temp changes because of cheap springs, boost creep, overboosting because of fatigued springs, limited adjustability... the minuses go on and on.

Only good thing about them is you can make them for about $10 in parts from a hardware store.

 

[2QUIK6]

The solenoid is eliminated with a manual controller and is prone to the problems mentioned above, although they can work nicely in a few sparse cases....guess it all depends on your setup, I've gotten one to work nicely once in the 3 cars I've tried it on. Much rather prefer an electron controller like the BST Commander and its all in-cockpit, worth every penny.