Got another question for the experts: specs: CA18DET, running AEM ECU, with launch control. Boost controller. Mechanical gauge indicates 1.1 bar max.

Problem: it has always misfired like crazy when pushed: "pop, pop, pop" flames etc. It is not short on power in general. It pushes a lot of blue smoke at this point, but NOT at low or moderate revs.

It idles well, and does OK til you step on it. My DigiDashII does not show any rev lights, which are supposed to come on at 7000 RPM. I am sure I am up there, but can't see the digital readout because I'm trying to keep it straight.

It's been like this since before the AEM was installed, but runs a lot better with it than with the old standard ECU.

I am ready for any potential bad news, know you can't do anything from there, but am NOT looking forward to spending more on a new setup!

could be something a bit of mapping could sort. my honda is doing exactly ther same at just over 6000 rpm, anything under is pervect and making reasonable power.
do you have the aem digital afr gauge also? to monitor ratio

No, but I should really, shouldn't I?

Blue smoke when revved

Oil is getting past a seal somewhere? Turbo oil seal, valve steam oil seals or piston rings

Does it still smoke when on over run?

no

Have you changed the plugs?

several times. I have put a grand total of 150 kms on the car since I built it, including autoslalom events the past 2 years.

sounds like it needs to be mapped again where was it mapped to start with?

[Edited on 1/4/2012 by ashg]

Does it clear after then initial stumble? Could be excessive fuel?

CA runs 1mm/39thou plug gaps as std, if running bit more boost than stock, it can 'blow' the spark out. Try NGK 7s gapped at 25 thou and see if that helps.
If not, sounds like a correlation between boost and the issue. Is the ecus MAP air sensor connected ok? If so look at the boost compensation part of the map that adds extra fuel when on boost.

Yes, I'll get the guy that did the tune right on that. Should be a simple $500. I know SFA about this, so I really appreciate these responses. The Aussies apparently think it's something to do with the coil packs.