Tuners & Chips for VAN's - Diesel Forum

anash13 · 04-09-2006, 08:37 AM

O.K. Gang, I know I'm opening a can of worms here, And I have no intention of starting WW-3. [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/blush.gif[/img] [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/crazy.gif[/img]

However, This past Saturday I saw at least 3 T.V. programs, all of which were advertising different power enhancing devices, SuperChip tuner, Bully Dog, Banks Sys. ect. the list go's on.

To be compleatly honest I have a SCMT which I have had for the past 3.5 years, and works reasonably well, Both towing and in day to day driving.
But my Question is this, Is there somthing BETTER out there?
Somthng made exclusivly for VAN's? [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/vulnerable.gif[/img]

I hear all these clam's about "Monster HP" and the likes, but all this HYPE is directed at the Truck Guys.
Can one have "Monster HP" and fuel economy in the 17 ~ 18 mpg range in the same package....Or am I dreaming. [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif[/img] [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/shrug.gif[/img]

My question is: What's out there for us VAN folks who have a little different set-up.....WHAT WORKS BEST FOR VAN'S WITH A 7.3 OR 6.0 [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/vulnerable.gif[/img]

CAN I HAVE IT ALL???
[img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smirk.gif[/img] [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]
My enquiring mind would like to know.... [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif[/img] [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smirk.gif[/img] [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smokin.gif[/img]

msnunes · 04-09-2006, 12:14 PM

[ QUOTE ]
O.K. Gang, I know I'm opening a can of worms here, And I have no intention of starting WW-3. [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/blush.gif[/img] [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/crazy.gif[/img]

However, This past Saturday I saw at least 3 T.V. programs, all of which were advertising different power enhancing devices, SuperChip tuner, Bully Dog, Banks Sys. ect. the list go's on.

To be compleatly honest I have a SCMT which I have had for the past 3.5 years, and works reasonably well, Both towing and in day to day driving.
But my Question is this, Is there somthing BETTER out there?
Somthng made exclusivly for VAN's? [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/vulnerable.gif[/img]

I hear all these clam's about "Monster HP" and the likes, but all this HYPE is directed at the Truck Guys.
Can one have "Monster HP" and fuel economy in the 17 ~ 18 mpg range in the same package....Or am I dreaming. [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif[/img] [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/shrug.gif[/img]

My question is: What's out there for us VAN folks who have a little different set-up.....WHAT WORKS BEST FOR VAN'S WITH A 7.3 OR 6.0 [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/vulnerable.gif[/img]

CAN I HAVE IT ALL???
[img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smirk.gif[/img] [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]
My enquiring mind would like to know.... [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif[/img] [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smirk.gif[/img] [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smokin.gif[/img]

[/ QUOTE ]

I have a DP-Tuner and wouldn't get anything else based upon what I've read here... I wouldn't say there is anything made specifically for vans, other than the fact that his tunes match your PCM code... I have to say it's pretty awesome, and made a HUGE difference in mine. I could probably see good mileage gains, but haven't been on any long hauls and find myself playing around too much otherwise, since it's so much more fun to drive now. Looks like you already have a good exhaust system, so I'd say you're good to go.

sixiron · 04-10-2006, 07:55 AM

I vote for DP Tuner also...I too started with the superchips programmer and ran it a long time, then the tuning "morphed" into folks like "Bill" ase mechanic, now with Edge, and then to Jody Tipton, DP Tuner... he will design a program for you and custom tune for your needs and that makes a lot more sense than buying a "one size fits all" type...
my .02 bd

Larry M · 04-10-2006, 08:23 AM

I'm in the same boat as you and have been running the SCMT 1700 in the 60HP mode since mid 1992. As soon as my "piggy bank" matures [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img] I plan on getting a DP-Tuner setup. My specific plans would be a stock PCM replacement (would like a spare anyway) with a switchable chip probably with the following programs ...

1. 40 HP tow aimed at keeping down the EGTs for mountain towing.
2. 60 HP tow for interstate towing
3. 80 HP econo mode
4. Some sort of "performance" mode for non towing fun

Once that is done and I get some experience I might step up for some "live tuning" from Jody since he is only about a day's drive from me.

Larry

anash13 · 04-11-2006, 09:10 AM

I looked at DT's web-site However, I am not quite sure how there system works.
Is it like the SCMT programer?? just plug in at the port and off you go.
Or is this somthing like you DIG INTO the computer and replace hardware/chip/e-prom itself??

I am not compfortable with the idea of going into the computer itself.
a Plug-in unit like the SCMT is more of what I have in mind.

Gents, Your input is requested.

msnunes · 04-11-2006, 10:11 AM

It's a chip that plugs into the port on the PCM, and has about a 3-foot cord to the rotary switch that you can mount where you want. It does require that you remove the PCM, and take its cover off so you can access the port to clean it, etc.

Larry M · 04-11-2006, 12:59 PM

[ QUOTE ]
It's a chip that plugs into the port on the PCM, and has about a 3-foot cord to the rotary switch that you can mount where you want. It does require that you remove the PCM, and take its cover off so you can access the port to clean it, etc.

[/ QUOTE ]

That's if you want to use your PCM. My plans are to get a spare PCM with the chip already installed or at least ready to be installed and then swap out my stock PCM for the DP-Tuner supplied one. As Matt mentioned with the switch you can then change programs on the fly with the rotatry switch.

I think about the only system you'r going to get with any sort of custom tunes on it is something like the SCT Excalibar and then I think you can't change programs w/o reprogramming the PCM just like you do with the SCMT 1700/1705.

I just think Jody probably has the best Van programs out there and do like being able to switch programs w/o going thru the OBD-II port.

The setup that I'm looking at should run in the neighborhood of $600 or so before any "live tuning" should I decide to do that also.

Larry

sixiron · 04-11-2006, 03:33 PM

Larry, that's exactly what I did...I kept my "bill" programed PCM and had Jody check out my spare 01 PCM and then he programmed it for the econo 80 tow, fast idle and what he said was an 80+ tune [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]
the 80+ tune gives the best fuel milage but I tow with the 80 econo..

still carry the extra pcm as a spare and I know it works fine...
bill

spikey · 04-11-2006, 10:13 PM

i have been using an Edge programer now for 2 years and find that i really works well for me in the 1st program. change all of the shift points for the tranny which really suit my driving style and the added power with the shifting changes is how it should have came from ford!!

not to mention that the dianostic feature has saved me a bundle on taking the van to the shop to get fixed!! trust me that has already paid for the programer.

anash13 · 04-12-2006, 09:10 AM

Thanks Gent's for your input.
I think I have enough information to start work with now.

Larry, Your suggestion sounds like the best for my situation.
However, I am a bit shy about removing the computer & replacing it with another.
By the way, Where IS the pmc located on these vans??
How much hassel is it to swap out??

As you can see I'm still working on mysteries with out any clues. [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif[/img] [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/shrug.gif[/img]

ddog · 04-12-2006, 09:47 AM

[ QUOTE ]
I'm still working on mysteries with out any clues.

[/ QUOTE ]

...aint it funny how the night moves? When just don't seem to have that much to lose... [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/cool.gif[/img]

Can't comment on the PCM location, just had to throw that in [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]
PCM swap shouldn't be that difficult though. Need to diconnect the batteries and be careful plugging the multipin connector in/out. Having a stock, unadulterated back-up PCM would be handy for anyone still under warranty. Best to retain the one that originally came with your van for this purpose.

msnunes · 04-12-2006, 10:48 AM

The PCM is located up high behind the dash, at the right end of the gauge cluster, to the left of the radio, and goes thru the firewall. If you're not comfortable with getting at it (and I wasn't either), have a diesel mechanic do it for you. My guy hadn't pulled one before so it took a little time to find it, but then only about an hour to prep and hook back up.

Larry M · 04-12-2006, 01:59 PM

[ QUOTE ]
The PCM is located up high behind the dash, at the right end of the gauge cluster, to the left of the radio, and goes thru the firewall. If you're not comfortable with getting at it (and I wasn't either), have a diesel mechanic do it for you. My guy hadn't pulled one before so it took a little time to find it, but then only about an hour to prep and hook back up.

[/ QUOTE ]

Right and if you look in from the engine compartment it's right at the firewall where the doghouse connects high on the driver's side and it's hard to see since the oil filler tube is sort of in the way. According to my manual you need to disconnect the batteries, remove the connector from the pcm along with a couple of retaining bolts and the PCM should come out thru the engine compartment. I've never removed mine, but it doesn't look all that hard. Maybe a little time consuming since you need to remove the air box and might have to loosen a couple of things on the cowl just for access.

Larry

ddog · 04-12-2006, 06:43 PM

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
The PCM is located up high behind the dash, at the right end of the gauge cluster, to the left of the radio, and goes thru the firewall. If you're not comfortable with getting at it (and I wasn't either), have a diesel mechanic do it for you. My guy hadn't pulled one before so it took a little time to find it, but then only about an hour to prep and hook back up.

[/ QUOTE ]

Right and if you look in from the engine compartment it's right at the firewall where the doghouse connects high on the driver's side and it's hard to see since the oil filler tube is sort of in the way. According to my manual you need to disconnect the batteries, remove the connector from the pcm along with a couple of retaining bolts and the PCM should come out thru the engine compartment. I've never removed mine, but it doesn't look all that hard. Maybe a little time consuming since you need to remove the air box and might have to loosen a couple of things on the cowl just for access.

Larry

[/ QUOTE ]

Well after reading both of those I decided to have a look myself for educational reasons and to see how tough it would be. From Yours and Matts description I wasn't sure if it was inside or outside and as it turns out from a having look its both. The PCM Plug end is inside the engine compartment, with the remainder sticking through inside the passenger compartment.Directly above the bracket for the fuel pedal assembly would be another way to describe the location on the inside of the van.

Having looked at it, I have some thoughts/questions. So where is the access plate you remove to get to the spot on the PCM to plug in the multiposition chip if you go that route? Iunderstand there is the rotary swith and a length of wire that attaches to the PCM. Obviously since Matt has one there is room to fish the wire and rotary switch for the chip through the hole in the firewall as your sliding the PCM back in. Seems that might be a little tricky, but I would think you install and secure that connection before sliding the PCM back in its stock location.Gasket/seal at the firewall, is it reusable?

Larry M · 04-12-2006, 07:01 PM

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
The PCM is located up high behind the dash, at the right end of the gauge cluster, to the left of the radio, and goes thru the firewall. If you're not comfortable with getting at it (and I wasn't either), have a diesel mechanic do it for you. My guy hadn't pulled one before so it took a little time to find it, but then only about an hour to prep and hook back up.

[/ QUOTE ]

Right and if you look in from the engine compartment it's right at the firewall where the doghouse connects high on the driver's side and it's hard to see since the oil filler tube is sort of in the way. According to my manual you need to disconnect the batteries, remove the connector from the pcm along with a couple of retaining bolts and the PCM should come out thru the engine compartment. I've never removed mine, but it doesn't look all that hard. Maybe a little time consuming since you need to remove the air box and might have to loosen a couple of things on the cowl just for access.

Larry

[/ QUOTE ]

Well after reading both of those I decided to have a look myself for educational reasons and to see how tough it would be. From Yours and Matts description I wasn't sure if it was inside or outside and as it turns out from a having look its both. The PCM Plug end is inside the engine compartment, with the remainder sticking through inside the passenger compartment.Directly above the bracket for the fuel pedal assembly would be another way to describe the location on the inside of the van.

Having looked at it, I have some thoughts/questions. So where is the access plate you remove to get to the spot on the PCM to plug in the multiposition chip if you go that route? Iunderstand there is the rotary swith and a length of wire that attaches to the PCM. Obviously since Matt has one there is room to fish the wire and rotary switch for the chip through the hole in the firewall as your sliding the PCM back in. Seems that might be a little tricky, but I would think you install and secure that connection before sliding the PCM back in its stock location.Gasket/seal at the firewall, is it reusable?

[/ QUOTE ]

I think all that is correct. The chip would be on the end that is on the interior end and I don't know if you can hook up the switch from the inside easily once your install the PCM and chip on it or not or if the switch will fit thru the hole in the firewall from the engine side. I know it's been done so once I'm there I will figger it out and I'm fairly sure Jody has done it on a Van so I will check with him on this when I bust my pennies out of my piggy bank [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

There probably is some sort of gasket/seal, but that's a fairly protected area so as long as the connector on the PCM is weatherproof the seal at the firewall shouldn't be that big of an issue. I have run all my electrial stuff thru an existing hole just above the accelerator pedal w/o any seal except for some split wire loom and have never gotten any moisture from the engine compartment into the cab at that location for almost 5 years.

Unlike most because of the way I have run my lines to my coolant filter <font color="red"> HERE</font> ... that JD coolant eye witht the green coolant in it is now gone, but all the lines are still there. Thus my PCM removal will be a little more complicated since of the mess of crap I have in that area, but as I said not anything that I can see as a major problem.

Larry