Diablo - Western Diesel - Hypertech PPP III - Try 'em all!!

[goldframe]

Well I too have been wondering just which chip/program would be best for the EX - I've asked for advice here on the list and have appreciated the input.

Sometimes I'm not too swift the first time around - SOO what dawned on me was, through the courtesy of Brent Doughty at DIS and their 30 day money back policy, why not order the three (3) I'm most interested in and then keep the one I like the best. Yay!!

I’ve ordered the Diablo, Hypertech PPIII and the Western Diesel, Brent’s advice; – I’m mostly interested in a “tuned” street vehicle that will have fairly decent off-road abilities too. +50HP will be fine for me. Stock size all-season tires, good shocks – Procomp per advise of brother PSD’er here, Procomp steering stabilizer, Hellwig sway bars and a few little things like a Turbo Diesel Life Saver and gauges ought to do it just fine. No lifts – No large tires – No propane, nothing against them, just want to still have a solid car in 5 years. Excursion - Good looking and hard to catch. LOL That should surprise a few folks.

I’ll post my thoughts on the Diablo, Hypertech and Western Diesel over the next few weeks. Please, post what you like most about your chips here regardless of type.

Thanks

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goldframe

00 Excursion LTD, 4X4, PSD , Code AXD0 - Born 3/13/00, Estate Green, BFG Long Trail stock size, K&N, Helllwig Rear anti-sway - next to do: Edlebrock IAS?? or Bilstien?? (needing advice), Diesel Turbo Life Saver, Autometer Carbon Fiber gauges, HyperTeck - Diablo or WD chip??? & .....??? My first diesel, purchased 9/21/00. Yay!!!

[This message has been edited by goldframe (edited 10-18-2000).]

[aces full]

Been there---done that

WD is the winner & still champion!!!!

aces

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00 Excursion Ltd, Oxford White, PSD, 4X4, 3.73, WD Chip, Turbo Lifefaver w/F1 Module, K&N, Stull Grill, Clear Lenses/// '01 F250 Lariat, Bright Red, PSD, 4X4, CC, Heated Seats, Reverse Sensor, 3.73 LS,WD Chip, DiPricol Tranny/Boost/Pyro Guages, Stull Grill, K&N

[excurstroked]

goldframe,
I too did the same thing, started w/ the SC 50/100 and hated the shifting, sooo then I tried the 54 Diablo smoked like a freight train and got hot hot hot!!! So the newest program (read the chip is not ready for customers yet) was the 78, all in all not a bad chip, I just felt that it was WAY TOO MUCH for this truck, it would start shuddering with all the power. Finally, and like most of everyone because of the price I tried Western Diesel and guess what SO far I love it, just what it sounds like you are looking for nice smooth strong power, nice shifts and EGTs don't run away (rather have my eyes on the road at high speed rather than on my gauge ) So far I couldn't be happier guess there is something to say about a company that sends out a finished product rather than using my 40k truck as there beta tester. Just my .02, I am interested to here about what you think. Good luck,
Dave

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'00 Excursion XLT 4X4 PSD 3.73LS , K&N,WD,lighted running boards, overhead console/computer, leather,Edelbrock IAS, SPA Dual gauge EGT/Boost, cd/6 cd changer, DEI Python 1500 ESP w/remote start and shutdown timer. And last but not least 4 Firechickens

[This message has been edited by excurstroked (edited 10-19-2000).]

[tbbux]

Finally....somebody opened a topic about this. I was confused also about all the chip talk with gauges and EGT and boost temp and trans. temp and butt temp...blah.blah.blah..(wait a second, the last temp was from Taco Bell). I didn't want to put gauges on my X because the thought of somebody drilling my exhaust just didn't sound right, with all the lack of workmanship out there and I didn't want to attempt it myself. I happened to find out about a chip for the X that does not affect the temps so I drove over personally (from Tampa,Fl to Orlando,Fl) and picked it up last Saturday night. I pulled over at a 7-11 at 12:30 in the morning to see if I could notice a difference on the way home. They told me the max. speed of ~94 was lifted so the X would go faster (like I need to go faster than 94). WELL, to my surprise, I noticed the X had more power even pulling out of the 7-11. My wife even noticed the difference from takeoff. I got up on the interstate and I was passing and pulling away from vehicles at 80 mph (yes, you read that right). I couldn't believe it. The chip added 55 hp and 100 torque. I never thought I could do a donut and leave tire marks with a vehicle as big/heavy as the X. This chip provides power throughout the entire bandwidth. It's even approved through Ford so I don't have to take it out when getting serviced at Ford. Here's the best part....the price was $380 and only took 2 bolts to put in.

Where did you guys get the K&N for the PSD? I checked with Discount Auto Parts and they don't even show a number.

Keep on Truckin'

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2K Black 4x4 PSD3.73 Limited 285/75/16 Edelbrocks AIS SuperChip Loaded (except kitchen sink..although there's room)

[AJ'sDad]

tbbux,

What is this chip you speak so highly of?

[goldframe]

ttbux

Well you got my curiosity up - I called DIS (Diesel Injection Service) www.dieselpage.com/vehtype/pfordps99l.htm - to ask if they knew of Ford approving of any chip. That would be of major importance to many of us - at least those of us who aren't determined to blow-up or blow-out our trucks. LOL

They say that they know of NO CHIP – THAT CARRIES FORD’S APPROVAL. I just called Gene at www.performanceford.com for his answer – not there, got the answering machine – waiting for him to get back to me.

The shocks I’m getting are the Pro-Comp ES9000 @ $47 – steering stabilizer @ $39. Getting them from Mark Turner 4X4 in Fort Collins, CO. Phone (970) 416-1234. Got this referral from BadExcursion, check out his post http://forums.ford-diesel.com:8080/u...ML/003619.html . These are specifically made and tuned for the Excursion or Super Duty with Power Stoke Diesel. Mark says the Edlebrock’s were actually designed for a lighter weight SUV. We’re in a class of our own. YAY!!!

<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by tbbux:
[b][snip] I happened to find out about a chip for the X that does not affect the temps so I drove over personally (from Tampa,Fl to Orlando,Fl) and picked it up last Saturday night. [snip]It's even approved through Ford so I don't have to take it out when getting serviced at Ford. /B]<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

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goldframe

Please edit your signatuer line down to three lines MAXIMUM at 800 X 600resolution.

[This message has been edited by johnm (edited 10-25-2000).]

[tbbux]

goldframe,

gene will fax you something from the automaker. i'm going to check out the shocks you're talking about. i have to agree that the edelbrocks are not what everybody's saying. i don't even notice a difference and for the price...well, i should. is the stabilizer bar hard to put on? will IT make a difference? let me know what you think after you talk to gene.

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2K Black 4x4 PSD3.73 Limited 285/75/16 Edelbrocks AIS SuperChip Loaded (except kitchen sink..although there's room)

[aces full]

I cannot believe there is any chip authorized by F**D. Consider this----the reason that Hypertech will not remove the top end limiter on the PP III is that the tires that our trucks come with are not rated higher than the limiter (95 mph). So imagine a scenario where HYPERTECH WON'T REMOVE THE LIMITER, BUT F**D WILL????? Give me a break----after all the amazing bad press due to the Firebombs, F**D is going to come out and say, "cool guys---go for it with this chip----no problemundo!!!!"

Not going to happen----I'm sure that whoever posted this info meant well, but was misinformed. I followed the link, and got led to none other than Superchip----I'm sure they make a fine product, but I'm also VERY SURE THAT THERE IS NO ENDORSEMENT FROM F**D.

aces



[This message has been edited by aces full (edited 10-19-2000).]

[goldframe]

Hooked up the HyperTech and did the programming and test drive.

Well today I had a much better chance to drive and feel the Hellwig rear anti-sway bar.

Did a pretty good run up Poudre Canyon 30 miles, much more actually but that all I did, of winding road. I really drove up to get the feel of the Hypertech PP III which I just used to reprogram my PCM. Very impressed with how simple and “clean” the PP III is – just plug it in and do the interview – when done, just unplug and go. I didn’t get the WOW feeling I thought I would. At start-up the idle was slightly higher and good crisp low end shift – but nothing for WOW, I’m not complaining – I don’t really want too much chip. Longevity and reliability are most important to me,

Back to the Hellwig, I have the rear only – first made sure my tires were right – 60 psi for the BFG Long Trial, great tire. Then up the windey canyon – felt really good even with the stock shocks, my Pro-Comp ES9000’s go on tomorrow, felt good enough that I’ll hold off on ordering the front Hellwig – with the new shocks that might just feel pretty good – we’ll see if I stop there. Had a good time by myself could really take some good corners and still apply some acceleration through the corners at 35 – 40 mph. Wife would had made the test more mild mannered. LOL More to follow.

AFTER-POST - POST

Well just went out for an after dinner trip around the “block” “sure honey” – you know how it is when you have a new toy. In town, stopping and acceleration is strong – came home the long way and floored it – nice strong acceleration way up past the speed limit. Guess I’d have to say it’s a definite – wow. No question the chip or program is the best bang for the buck – in the case of the Hypertech PP III, $311 bucks for the bang, it is the cheapest “um – least expensive” of the bunch. If you like to plant the accelerator – you do get the seat of the pants feel. If you like to keep a low profile, like me, it still is a good sleeper and you know you can kick it in whenever. LOL

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goldframe

00 Excursion LTD, 4X4, PSD , Estate Green, Born 3/13/00 - Code AXD0, BFG Long Trail stock size, K&N, Hellwig Rear anti-sway - next to do: Pro Comp shocks & steering stabilizer on order, Diesel Turbo Life Saver – arrived - to be installed, Autometer Carbon Fiber gauges, HyperTech - Diablo or WD chip - all on order for 30 day trials & testing - and the winner is ?????? Next item .....??? My first diesel, purchased 9/21/00. Yay!!!


[This message has been edited by goldframe (edited 10-19-2000).]

[goldframe]

tbbux

Gene called and left me a message - "some of the guys at several dealerships and an owner have the chips in their vehicles." He's going to ask them if Ford gave any official "OKY-DOKEY" but I'm sure Aces Full is right in all likelihood. CYA right. LOL

<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by tbbux:
goldframe,

gene will fax you something from the automaker. i'm going to check out the shocks you're talking about. i have to agree that the edelbrocks are not what everybody's saying. i don't even notice a difference and for the price...well, i should. is the stabilizer bar hard to put on? will IT make a difference? let me know what you think after you talk to gene.

<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

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goldframe

00 Excursion LTD, 4X4, PSD , Estate Green, Born 3/13/00 - Code AXD0, BFG Long Trail stock size, K&N, Hellwig Rear anti-sway - next to do: Procomp shocks & steering stabilizer on order, Diesel Turbo Life Saver – arrived - to be installed, Autometer Carbon Fiber gauges, HyperTech - Diablo or WD chip - all on order for 30 day trials & testing - and the winner is ?????? Next item .....??? My first diesel, purchased 9/21/00. Yay!!!

[tbbux]

Go to http://www.performanceford.com or call Gene at 1-877-678-5591. Let him know I (Duane Roderick) referred you. He is located in Orlando,Fl.

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2K Black 4x4 PSD3.73 Limited 285/75/16 Edelbrocks AIS SuperChip Loaded (except kitchen sink..although there's room)

[DIESELSITE]

I can also assure you there is no such thing as a chip endorsed by Ford, or you can bet it would be sold by Ford only. Like others have said, you were misimformed and it would make sence since he also told you this magic chip did not affect the egt? Give me a break. It's called being snowed. Hate to put it like that, but he told you what you wanted to hear. Youdidn't want guages, so guess what? You don't need one. Worried about warrantee? Don't worry, Ford endorses this one.

As far as the Diablo, WD, PPIII debate goes. WD has produced a chip for that one that works. Diablo has two codes that are giving them trouble now in the EXs, the AXD1 and AXD0. That doesn't mean they all do that. I don't have the other codes in front of me, but some of them are fantastic. The two are being worked on. Those that have tried the PPIII have said it seems good under an empty vehicle, but falls on it's face with a trailer behind it.
Bob

P.S. The Diablo 54s are great. The only ones that are being worked on are the two 78 programs.
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99.5SD PSD, CC, Black, 4X4Off Road, Lariat, DIABLO 295/700, Amsoil from front to back. My 99.5 Superduty Turbo Brake, A-Pillar with Trans Temp, Boost, and EGT Guages. www.dieselsite.com Southeastern Rally

[This message has been edited by Bob Riley (edited 10-26-2000).]

[Legal Eagle]

I am running a Diablo 54 chip with the AXD1 code. I was pretty pleased with it, and was prepared to give you lots of helpful input, until I read the posting above from Bob Riley. I think I will hear from him on what the "problems" are before I tell you all the benefits I have seen thusfar. Maybe these "problems" outweigh the benefits. I expect to hear from him pretty soon, and when I do, I will talk some more to your issue.

Jay

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H. J. Ledbetter, Jr. J.D.
"Wife's car" Y2K Excursion LTD, 4X4, 3.73 LS, PSD, three-guage pillar mount ISSPRO boost, Pyro (pre-turbo) Banks tranny temp. Amsoil air filter. Altimeter. Tows a 30' Sportsmen fiberglass-sided TT with slide-out, which likes to go to the mountains a lot.

[DIESELSITE]

Leagal,
Please read my edit above. The two people above were trying the 78s. For some reason, they are getting too much fuel. The 54s have been great so far in all the programs, trucks and excursions.
Sorry for the confusion.
Bob



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99.5SD PSD, CC, Black, 4X4Off Road, Lariat, DIABLO 295/700, Amsoil from front to back. My 99.5 Superduty Turbo Brake, A-Pillar with Trans Temp, Boost, and EGT Guages. www.dieselsite.com

[Legal Eagle]

Ok, I'm back.

After Bob cleared up the confusion, and my heartbeat returned to normal, I can now tell all about my experience with the Diablo 54 without fear.

I shopped around pretty extensively before settling on the Diablo. I talked to lots of people who manufacture and sell these things, and to some folks who use them too.

I even had a brand new PPIII in-hand and sent it back untried because I was that sold on the Diablo. The Diablo gave me amazing performance without making me add-on other stuff like "boost tubes" and such that other chip manufacturers seem to need to get their programs to work. The Diablo chip seems to be able to control the whole system from one program.

Here's a big selling point for me: Diablo (or maybe it's Bob Riley in particular) seems to be willing to do whatever is needed to get you from where you are to "happy". They apparently can "tweak" the program and give you subtle changes that make things work better.

The acceleration is amazing, and power is smooth. On the first test drive my son and I were astounded that a diesel truck could do anything like what it did. I had to back out of the throttle at about 85 mph because the road was about to turn. I get a puff of black smoke when I put my foot in it, but then it clears right up and makes me feel better about the effect on the environment.

I have made no mods to the exhaust system, but I did install an Amsoil air filter, to make it breathe better. I am considering a different muffler (at least) because Bob says that will make it run cooler and with better power.

I am still running the numbers, and so farr I am suspicious that the MPG numbers have not really increased since the install of the chip. But even if there is not any gain in mileage, I'd still get the Diablo just for the extra power. Bob Riley is currently working with me to tune the chip to see if we can squeeze some additional MPG without losing power. I am about to try to put in a boost tube with the chip to see if a little more air will burn any extra fuel (it seems to be running a little rich) and maybe that will give me better MPG. Or maybe Bob can get the program tuned to take out the extra fuel. Either way, I believe the combination of Diablo and Bob Riley is your best bet.

Here is a war story. I went for a ride with a friend the other day who is running the Western Diesel chip together with the boost tube. He loves it. When he punched it, I could immediately tell that my X-car had more power. But he gets better mileage, so maybe that's the trade-off.

The bottom line is that I am very happy with the Diablo 54 chip, and I believe it is the way to go. I have seen so many postings on this issue, and although many people tout the other chips, I have seen where some of them switched to Diablo and then wind up even happier.


Jay.

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H. J. Ledbetter, Jr. J.D.
"Wife's car" Y2K Excursion LTD, 4X4, 3.73 LS, PSD, three-guage pillar mount ISSPRO boost, Pyro (pre-turbo) Banks tranny temp. Amsoil air filter. Altimeter. Tows a 30' Sportsmen fiberglass-sided TT with slide-out, which likes to go to the mountains a lot.