got it sorted. in the end i had to cut about an inch section out of the x-over pipe and weld it back together (CAREFULLY). it was in the 1-inch bend, right after the turbo. fits perfectly. made another mounting bracket and welded that in place, and just pushed down REAL HARD while i tightened everything. clears the bonnet better now as well.
intercooling is the way, for sure.
all up, $150 for the cooler, and about $70 foir piping (including $37 for 15 damn hose clamps), and it goes so much better. nice noises too. happy to get rid of the BOV now- it was a pretty offensive noise, i was sick of it.
anyway, cheers for the help guys, if anyone wants some tips on fitting a piazza intercooler - not many, im sure - give me a yell, im happy to help.
it flows better than an rx7 one, is a similar size, and it cant be seen. stealthy...
mark