Justboostit is the extra 30HP "worth it" considering you have to add some race gas or use av gas. av gas is pretty easy for me but non eth pump premium is even easier. So for the hassle factor and wear and tear on equipment would you recommend the 250 or 280 set up? Also, Cat did the 2.6" track, 38" front end and steering mod which is great. Did they address the skis or is that still something you need to do?
The skis are different, might be better than the '12's but as good as aftermarket Gen 3, SLP PP, ....dare to dream.
At some point in hp you get past the magic hp to weight ratio. At 12lbs my Tpex was enough to offset the weight and get "around". At 15-16lbs it really started to wake up, yet that was only 30-35hp, but a world of difference. At 18-19lbs it was more fun than anyone should be allowed to have.
The Big Chute on a pump tune is 255-260hp. If you have never had that kind of hp I can tell you on that sled it will be fun. Power is addicting so I personally would do the 280hp, especially if you have easy asses to av, and not use it all if it's not needed. There are also some things that will come down the pipe over the summer that have potential to add a few more hp to the 280 kit if you are looking for a little more in the future......
There is also nothing wrong with a reflash or a BD box. Both have the capability to clean up the richness at WOT. Depending on elevation the stock turbo at 6-7500 will still do 21-22lbs. With a divorced downpipe and straight pipe it is still possible to see 225-230 at that elevation. Will that run anywhere near a Big Chute kit even on pump.....no. More air, cooler air, a map designed specifically for that turbo will make it a lot more efficient.