I've been tuning on the professional level for going on 6 years now. And just like [MENTION=9]HolyCrapItsFast[/MENTION] started tuning around 17 to 18 years old, only difference was I started out on 4 cylinders, and I started with things like Honda's using Hondata S300 management system. I really got my tuning in gear though when I started tuning Evo's. I learned to tune Evos to the point where I could almost do it in my sleep. Then I started to venture into Subaru's. After learning about the Cobb AccessPORT options, mainly because it was a rare thing to see on a CT9A Evo 8 or 9. But I started playing around with the beta version of ATR and eventually went to a certified instruction program that taught me the fine details of it, which in return certified me as a Cobb ProTuner. Over the past 6 years I've been tuning systems such as AEM, Hydra, Cobb, Opensource, Hondata, Chrome, LS Edit, GReddy EManage. Tuning isn't really some sort of witchcraft or magic, it's all about knowing the Limits of the engine. And the software your using.
As far as wrenching, I've been doing that for 15 to 16 years now, ever since I was 12. The difference now a days is im a ASE Certified Master Technician, along with having a Factory Technician training from Toyota and BMW. When it comes to actually turning the nuts and bolts I've been doing it forever.
I've also dabbed into things like Chassis Fab as well. Nothing too major, most of my fab work comes from making custom exhausts and Intercooler piping.
As far as fueling is concerned, I fully and 100% support what [MENTION=9]HolyCrapItsFast[/MENTION] has to say, I pretty much do most of the time. Smart man heed his words, and if your smart yourself, Id honestly let one of us take care of the tuning for you. Sometimes chasing your tail like this can lead to nowhere. The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.
I still think that you should also be checking the mechanical side of things. The small little things that are overlooked are usually what cause the big issues in the long run.
I would do a full work up on it honestly. Compression test, Leak Down, Vac Leak Test and Boost Leak test. Just to rule out mechanical issues with the vehicle, before pointing the finger at the ECU calibration. With subarus it can be something small and relatively insignificant that throws everything into a domino cascading effect when it comes to sensor calibration or even a fueling issue. Like stated above, check the main harness.
