Trying to understand TUNING CHIPs for new trucks.
White Lightening
01-28-2005, 01:45 PM
Greetings,
As I read threads on the board - I often read about the use of tuning chips. I figure these are different computer chips to give different performance curves etc.. But when posters talk about them - they never indicate what the down side or negatives of them are - or why it was needed for a street truck.
I've got the LQ9 high output performance engine V8 6 liter producing 345 hp (2004 4 x 2). I'm not refering to racing - because that isn't my thing. Will a tuning chip "do anything" to improve my truck for normal driving? And if so - what are the negatives as well as the positives?
Thanks for any input.
White Lightening
As I read threads on the board - I often read about the use of tuning chips. I figure these are different computer chips to give different performance curves etc.. But when posters talk about them - they never indicate what the down side or negatives of them are - or why it was needed for a street truck.
I've got the LQ9 high output performance engine V8 6 liter producing 345 hp (2004 4 x 2). I'm not refering to racing - because that isn't my thing. Will a tuning chip "do anything" to improve my truck for normal driving? And if so - what are the negatives as well as the positives?
Thanks for any input.
White Lightening
Slowprocess
01-28-2005, 09:53 PM
Greetings,
As I read threads on the board - I often read about the use of tuning chips. I figure these are different computer chips to give different performance curves etc.. But when posters talk about them - they never indicate what the down side or negatives of them are - or why it was needed for a street truck.
I've got the LQ9 high output performance engine V8 6 liter producing 345 hp (2004 4 x 2). I'm not refering to racing - because that isn't my thing. Will a tuning chip "do anything" to improve my truck for normal driving? And if so - what are the negatives as well as the positives?
Thanks for any input.
White Lightening
First off, yes an aftermarket tune will benefit your truck. Since I assume you're refering to a hand held tuner, I'll post up about them. A custom tune will do so much more, but we'll leave that for another post.
1. It will adjust air/fuel ratio a tad and give you a little more get up and go.
2. It will firm up the shift points by slightly increasing transmission line pressure. This will help your tranny. Instead of it sliding into gears, it will give it a more firm lock into each gear, thus reducing wear on clutches,etc.
3. I don't know if the VHO has a governor, but if it does, the tune will remove it or raise it up for Z rated tires.
4. You can increase your shift points. GM goes pretty conservative on the air/fuel mix, as well as the shift points. These trucks pull pretty good past the stock shift points, so you can get a little more out of your engine.
5. Some tuners remove some of the torque management. As you know, GM, in their tunes, puts in a safety feature known as torque management. This simply put, is a feature that cuts timing on these engines when the computer detects more torque than what is preset in the pcm during shifts. It really isn't noticeable on stock engines, but as mods are added, torque managment gets worse. It literally feels like the truck falls flat on its face during and right after a shift, then picks back up. The computer is cutting the timing, and therefore cutting the torque being produced. Some handhelds take out a certain percentage of torque management, and custom tunes can take out up to 100%. It's just a way for GM to better protect their crappy 4l60e-4l80e trannies.
I don't think you'll see any downsides to a handheld programmer, unless you count romping down on your truck more due to the addition of horsepower a "bad thing".
As I read threads on the board - I often read about the use of tuning chips. I figure these are different computer chips to give different performance curves etc.. But when posters talk about them - they never indicate what the down side or negatives of them are - or why it was needed for a street truck.
I've got the LQ9 high output performance engine V8 6 liter producing 345 hp (2004 4 x 2). I'm not refering to racing - because that isn't my thing. Will a tuning chip "do anything" to improve my truck for normal driving? And if so - what are the negatives as well as the positives?
Thanks for any input.
White Lightening
First off, yes an aftermarket tune will benefit your truck. Since I assume you're refering to a hand held tuner, I'll post up about them. A custom tune will do so much more, but we'll leave that for another post.
1. It will adjust air/fuel ratio a tad and give you a little more get up and go.
2. It will firm up the shift points by slightly increasing transmission line pressure. This will help your tranny. Instead of it sliding into gears, it will give it a more firm lock into each gear, thus reducing wear on clutches,etc.
3. I don't know if the VHO has a governor, but if it does, the tune will remove it or raise it up for Z rated tires.
4. You can increase your shift points. GM goes pretty conservative on the air/fuel mix, as well as the shift points. These trucks pull pretty good past the stock shift points, so you can get a little more out of your engine.
5. Some tuners remove some of the torque management. As you know, GM, in their tunes, puts in a safety feature known as torque management. This simply put, is a feature that cuts timing on these engines when the computer detects more torque than what is preset in the pcm during shifts. It really isn't noticeable on stock engines, but as mods are added, torque managment gets worse. It literally feels like the truck falls flat on its face during and right after a shift, then picks back up. The computer is cutting the timing, and therefore cutting the torque being produced. Some handhelds take out a certain percentage of torque management, and custom tunes can take out up to 100%. It's just a way for GM to better protect their crappy 4l60e-4l80e trannies.
I don't think you'll see any downsides to a handheld programmer, unless you count romping down on your truck more due to the addition of horsepower a "bad thing".
kenny-1907
01-28-2005, 10:28 PM
First off, yes an aftermarket tune will benefit your truck. Since I assume you're refering to a hand held tuner, I'll post up about them. A custom tune will do so much more, but we'll leave that for another post.
1. It will adjust air/fuel ratio a tad and give you a little more get up and go.
2. It will firm up the shift points by slightly increasing transmission line pressure. This will help your tranny. Instead of it sliding into gears, it will give it a more firm lock into each gear, thus reducing wear on clutches,etc.
3. I don't know if the VHO has a governor, but if it does, the tune will remove it or raise it up for Z rated tires.
4. You can increase your shift points. GM goes pretty conservative on the air/fuel mix, as well as the shift points. These trucks pull pretty good past the stock shift points, so you can get a little more out of your engine.
5. Some tuners remove some of the torque management. As you know, GM, in their tunes, puts in a safety feature known as torque management. This simply put, is a feature that cuts timing on these engines when the computer detects more torque than what is preset in the pcm during shifts. It really isn't noticeable on stock engines, but as mods are added, torque managment gets worse. It literally feels like the truck falls flat on its face during and right after a shift, then picks back up. The computer is cutting the timing, and therefore cutting the torque being produced. Some handhelds take out a certain percentage of torque management, and custom tunes can take out up to 100%. It's just a way for GM to better protect their crappy 4l60e-4l80e trannies.
I don't think you'll see any downsides to a handheld programmer, unless you count romping down on your truck more due to the addition of horsepower a "bad thing".
#5 That description right there fits my truck exactally. It is the most noticeable when in tow/haul mode when it shifts from 1st to 2nd under 3/4 to full throttle. It was not that noticable untill after i got the exhaust done, then when i installed the K&N fipk it seemed to be worse and i just thought it was like that beacuse of the oversized tires and that is why i drive around in tow/haul mode. Driving in tow/haul mode changes the way the trans shifts, to me it acts the same way as a shift kit did on my 88. So i take it the only way to get rid of the torque management is to get a programmer or a nelson tune ?
1. It will adjust air/fuel ratio a tad and give you a little more get up and go.
2. It will firm up the shift points by slightly increasing transmission line pressure. This will help your tranny. Instead of it sliding into gears, it will give it a more firm lock into each gear, thus reducing wear on clutches,etc.
3. I don't know if the VHO has a governor, but if it does, the tune will remove it or raise it up for Z rated tires.
4. You can increase your shift points. GM goes pretty conservative on the air/fuel mix, as well as the shift points. These trucks pull pretty good past the stock shift points, so you can get a little more out of your engine.
5. Some tuners remove some of the torque management. As you know, GM, in their tunes, puts in a safety feature known as torque management. This simply put, is a feature that cuts timing on these engines when the computer detects more torque than what is preset in the pcm during shifts. It really isn't noticeable on stock engines, but as mods are added, torque managment gets worse. It literally feels like the truck falls flat on its face during and right after a shift, then picks back up. The computer is cutting the timing, and therefore cutting the torque being produced. Some handhelds take out a certain percentage of torque management, and custom tunes can take out up to 100%. It's just a way for GM to better protect their crappy 4l60e-4l80e trannies.
I don't think you'll see any downsides to a handheld programmer, unless you count romping down on your truck more due to the addition of horsepower a "bad thing".
#5 That description right there fits my truck exactally. It is the most noticeable when in tow/haul mode when it shifts from 1st to 2nd under 3/4 to full throttle. It was not that noticable untill after i got the exhaust done, then when i installed the K&N fipk it seemed to be worse and i just thought it was like that beacuse of the oversized tires and that is why i drive around in tow/haul mode. Driving in tow/haul mode changes the way the trans shifts, to me it acts the same way as a shift kit did on my 88. So i take it the only way to get rid of the torque management is to get a programmer or a nelson tune ?
White Lightening
01-29-2005, 12:45 AM
First off, yes an aftermarket tune will benefit your truck. Since I assume you're refering to a hand held tuner, I'll post up about them. A custom tune will do so much more, but we'll leave that for another post.
1. It will adjust air/fuel ratio a tad and give you a little more get up and go.
2. It will firm up the shift points by slightly increasing transmission line pressure. This will help your tranny. Instead of it sliding into gears, it will give it a more firm lock into each gear, thus reducing wear on clutches,etc.
3. I don't know if the VHO has a governor, but if it does, the tune will remove it or raise it up for Z rated tires.
4. You can increase your shift points. GM goes pretty conservative on the air/fuel mix, as well as the shift points. These trucks pull pretty good past the stock shift points, so you can get a little more out of your engine.
5. Some tuners remove some of the torque management. As you know, GM, in their tunes, puts in a safety feature known as torque management. This simply put, is a feature that cuts timing on these engines when the computer detects more torque than what is preset in the pcm during shifts. It really isn't noticeable on stock engines, but as mods are added, torque managment gets worse. It literally feels like the truck falls flat on its face during and right after a shift, then picks back up. The computer is cutting the timing, and therefore cutting the torque being produced. Some handhelds take out a certain percentage of torque management, and custom tunes can take out up to 100%. It's just a way for GM to better protect their crappy 4l60e-4l80e trannies.
I don't think you'll see any downsides to a handheld programmer, unless you count romping down on your truck more due to the addition of horsepower a "bad thing".
Greetings SlowProcess,
Very interesting. Here I thought a tuning chip was a computer chip that got installed in the vehicle's computer to replace a stock one. But your description is more of programming instead. I'm constantly amazed at all the things there are to learn about vehicles.
White Lightening
1. It will adjust air/fuel ratio a tad and give you a little more get up and go.
2. It will firm up the shift points by slightly increasing transmission line pressure. This will help your tranny. Instead of it sliding into gears, it will give it a more firm lock into each gear, thus reducing wear on clutches,etc.
3. I don't know if the VHO has a governor, but if it does, the tune will remove it or raise it up for Z rated tires.
4. You can increase your shift points. GM goes pretty conservative on the air/fuel mix, as well as the shift points. These trucks pull pretty good past the stock shift points, so you can get a little more out of your engine.
5. Some tuners remove some of the torque management. As you know, GM, in their tunes, puts in a safety feature known as torque management. This simply put, is a feature that cuts timing on these engines when the computer detects more torque than what is preset in the pcm during shifts. It really isn't noticeable on stock engines, but as mods are added, torque managment gets worse. It literally feels like the truck falls flat on its face during and right after a shift, then picks back up. The computer is cutting the timing, and therefore cutting the torque being produced. Some handhelds take out a certain percentage of torque management, and custom tunes can take out up to 100%. It's just a way for GM to better protect their crappy 4l60e-4l80e trannies.
I don't think you'll see any downsides to a handheld programmer, unless you count romping down on your truck more due to the addition of horsepower a "bad thing".
Greetings SlowProcess,
Very interesting. Here I thought a tuning chip was a computer chip that got installed in the vehicle's computer to replace a stock one. But your description is more of programming instead. I'm constantly amazed at all the things there are to learn about vehicles.
White Lightening
Slowprocess
01-29-2005, 08:48 PM
#5 That description right there fits my truck exactally. It is the most noticeable when in tow/haul mode when it shifts from 1st to 2nd under 3/4 to full throttle. It was not that noticable untill after i got the exhaust done, then when i installed the K&N fipk it seemed to be worse and i just thought it was like that beacuse of the oversized tires and that is why i drive around in tow/haul mode. Driving in tow/haul mode changes the way the trans shifts, to me it acts the same way as a shift kit did on my 88. So i take it the only way to get rid of the torque management is to get a programmer or a nelson tune ?
Unfortunately yes, the only way to knock out the torque management is through a tune upgrade. I know the Predator programmer takes out some of the torque management, but I'm not sure on the Superchips or the Hypertech. My tuner took out 100% of my torque management because I have a fully built transmission. A tuner can take out as much torque management as you want percentage wise. I wouldn't recommend going to high if you don't have at least a shift kit or a corvette servo. If you had both of these, you could most likely get away with 100%. Torque management will slowly get worse as you get more mods, because you'll be making more torque than what it will allow between shifts. I know....it sucks!!! I fought it for a long time. :mad:
Unfortunately yes, the only way to knock out the torque management is through a tune upgrade. I know the Predator programmer takes out some of the torque management, but I'm not sure on the Superchips or the Hypertech. My tuner took out 100% of my torque management because I have a fully built transmission. A tuner can take out as much torque management as you want percentage wise. I wouldn't recommend going to high if you don't have at least a shift kit or a corvette servo. If you had both of these, you could most likely get away with 100%. Torque management will slowly get worse as you get more mods, because you'll be making more torque than what it will allow between shifts. I know....it sucks!!! I fought it for a long time. :mad:
Slowprocess
01-29-2005, 08:54 PM
Greetings SlowProcess,
Very interesting. Here I thought a tuning chip was a computer chip that got installed in the vehicle's computer to replace a stock one. But your description is more of programming instead. I'm constantly amazed at all the things there are to learn about vehicles.
White Lightening
Yeah, these newer GM trucks have a programmer instead of a chip. A custom tune, like a Nelson, is done on a laptop with a program called LS1edit or HPtuners. Both of these programs can be bought by anyone, but they are very complicated programs for beginners. These programs control EVERYTHING going on in the trucks PCM. Any little mess up could cause death to your motor, tranny, etc. That's why I went with a Nelson tune. Allen is awesome at what he does and all you have to do is remove your pcm and replace it with the pcm he sends you.
I'm going to be getting ls1edit this year and start toying with programming some, so I can cut back on the timing when I decide to spray. I'm also going to buy ATAP so I can log my runs down the track and see what's going on with the engine.
Don't we have some cool crap for these trucks to play with!!! :biggrin:
Very interesting. Here I thought a tuning chip was a computer chip that got installed in the vehicle's computer to replace a stock one. But your description is more of programming instead. I'm constantly amazed at all the things there are to learn about vehicles.
White Lightening
Yeah, these newer GM trucks have a programmer instead of a chip. A custom tune, like a Nelson, is done on a laptop with a program called LS1edit or HPtuners. Both of these programs can be bought by anyone, but they are very complicated programs for beginners. These programs control EVERYTHING going on in the trucks PCM. Any little mess up could cause death to your motor, tranny, etc. That's why I went with a Nelson tune. Allen is awesome at what he does and all you have to do is remove your pcm and replace it with the pcm he sends you.
I'm going to be getting ls1edit this year and start toying with programming some, so I can cut back on the timing when I decide to spray. I'm also going to buy ATAP so I can log my runs down the track and see what's going on with the engine.
Don't we have some cool crap for these trucks to play with!!! :biggrin:
White Lightening
01-30-2005, 11:26 PM
Yeah, these newer GM trucks have a programmer instead of a chip. A custom tune, like a Nelson, is done on a laptop with a program called LS1edit or HPtuners. Both of these programs can be bought by anyone, but they are very complicated programs for beginners. These programs control EVERYTHING going on in the trucks PCM. Any little mess up could cause death to your motor, tranny, etc. That's why I went with a Nelson tune. Allen is awesome at what he does and all you have to do is remove your pcm and replace it with the pcm he sends you.
I'm going to be getting ls1edit this year and start toying with programming some, so I can cut back on the timing when I decide to spray. I'm also going to buy ATAP so I can log my runs down the track and see what's going on with the engine.
Don't we have some cool crap for these trucks to play with!!! :biggrin:
Greetings Slow,
I'm wondering what would you suggest as considerations for a truck like mine. I have the HD transmission (like the SS) with the same engine as the SS. My Axle ratio is 3.73 with my rear wheel drive and I have the stock stainless steel muffler and the 20" wheels and Goodyear street performance tires. My trailering activity is infrequent light duty 6' x 10' flat bed size500# to 1000# weights at most or pulling a single jetski. Normal driving is highway and city - no racing - no stoplight hammering. I run 93 octane Premium at this point. City mpg is 14 to 17 depending on temperatures and distances - my highway mpg is about 20.5 maybe 21. At 55 mph I'm at about 1400 rpm - right at the start of my torque band in A.T. 4th gear.
My desires? Longevity - fuel economy - maximized non-wearing performance - no desire for complex engine mods. (Typically don't go faster than 70 - but my biker background doesn't like sluggishness either).
Would a Nelson tune take advantage of my equipment and enhance my needs?
Suggestions or input? Thanks.
White Lightening
I'm going to be getting ls1edit this year and start toying with programming some, so I can cut back on the timing when I decide to spray. I'm also going to buy ATAP so I can log my runs down the track and see what's going on with the engine.
Don't we have some cool crap for these trucks to play with!!! :biggrin:
Greetings Slow,
I'm wondering what would you suggest as considerations for a truck like mine. I have the HD transmission (like the SS) with the same engine as the SS. My Axle ratio is 3.73 with my rear wheel drive and I have the stock stainless steel muffler and the 20" wheels and Goodyear street performance tires. My trailering activity is infrequent light duty 6' x 10' flat bed size500# to 1000# weights at most or pulling a single jetski. Normal driving is highway and city - no racing - no stoplight hammering. I run 93 octane Premium at this point. City mpg is 14 to 17 depending on temperatures and distances - my highway mpg is about 20.5 maybe 21. At 55 mph I'm at about 1400 rpm - right at the start of my torque band in A.T. 4th gear.
My desires? Longevity - fuel economy - maximized non-wearing performance - no desire for complex engine mods. (Typically don't go faster than 70 - but my biker background doesn't like sluggishness either).
Would a Nelson tune take advantage of my equipment and enhance my needs?
Suggestions or input? Thanks.
White Lightening
chevytrucks92
01-30-2005, 11:51 PM
Greetings Slow,
I'm wondering what would you suggest as considerations for a truck like mine. I have the HD transmission (like the SS) with the same engine as the SS. My Axle ratio is 3.73 with my rear wheel drive and I have the stock stainless steel muffler and the 20" wheels and Goodyear street performance tires. My trailering activity is infrequent light duty 6' x 10' flat bed size500# to 1000# weights at most or pulling a single jetski. Normal driving is highway and city - no racing - no stoplight hammering. I run 93 octane Premium at this point. City mpg is 14 to 17 depending on temperatures and distances - my highway mpg is about 20.5 maybe 21. At 55 mph I'm at about 1400 rpm - right at the start of my torque band in A.T. 4th gear.
My desires? Longevity - fuel economy - maximized non-wearing performance - no desire for complex engine mods. (Typically don't go faster than 70 - but my biker background doesn't like sluggishness either).
Would a Nelson tune take advantage of my equipment and enhance my needs?
Suggestions or input? Thanks.
White Lightening
You probably would be better off with a hand held tuner, something like a Hypertech or Superchips, etc. Now I have no experience with these (don't have them for my truck, my truck actually has a chip you'd have to change-92 model), but alot of people buy them, and love them.
I'm wondering what would you suggest as considerations for a truck like mine. I have the HD transmission (like the SS) with the same engine as the SS. My Axle ratio is 3.73 with my rear wheel drive and I have the stock stainless steel muffler and the 20" wheels and Goodyear street performance tires. My trailering activity is infrequent light duty 6' x 10' flat bed size500# to 1000# weights at most or pulling a single jetski. Normal driving is highway and city - no racing - no stoplight hammering. I run 93 octane Premium at this point. City mpg is 14 to 17 depending on temperatures and distances - my highway mpg is about 20.5 maybe 21. At 55 mph I'm at about 1400 rpm - right at the start of my torque band in A.T. 4th gear.
My desires? Longevity - fuel economy - maximized non-wearing performance - no desire for complex engine mods. (Typically don't go faster than 70 - but my biker background doesn't like sluggishness either).
Would a Nelson tune take advantage of my equipment and enhance my needs?
Suggestions or input? Thanks.
White Lightening
You probably would be better off with a hand held tuner, something like a Hypertech or Superchips, etc. Now I have no experience with these (don't have them for my truck, my truck actually has a chip you'd have to change-92 model), but alot of people buy them, and love them.
jeverett
01-31-2005, 06:55 AM
Aw hell, why spend $350 on a handheld when you can get a Nelson for not much more! I think with you having the HD tramsmission, you could remove all of the TQ management without any negative effects.
I had like 40% removed on mine and I can still tell some of it's there if I just stomp it sitting still...it sucks.
I had like 40% removed on mine and I can still tell some of it's there if I just stomp it sitting still...it sucks.
Nigel215
01-31-2005, 08:58 AM
what is the highest % of TM that can be removed and still be safe on the factory tranny??
jeverett
01-31-2005, 09:56 AM
I think Allen told me I didn't want to go much more than 40% removed until I added my servos and such. I didn't argue with him. I was gonna ask for 60% removed, but wasn't sure if that was too much.
bowtieguy
01-31-2005, 02:05 PM
[QUOTE=Slowprocess]Unfortunately yes, the only way to knock out the torque management is through a tune upgrade. I know the Predator programmer takes out some of the torque management, but I'm not sure on the Superchips or the Hypertech. My tuner took out 100% of my torque management because I have a fully built transmission. A tuner can take out as much torque management as you want percentage wise. I wouldn't recommend going to high if you don't have at least a shift kit or a corvette servo. If you had both of these, you could most likely get away with 100%. Torque management will slowly get worse as you get more mods, because you'll be making more torque than what it will allow between shifts. I know....it sucks!!! I fought it for a long time. :mad:[/QUOTE
slowprocess, can you tell me more about the corvette servo? i know about shift kits and put one in my old 78 4X4. i am new to electronic transmissions i am used to turbo 350's and 400's , and dont know what is involved in using a corvette servo. is this something i may possibly be able to find in a salvage yard or be more advised to get a new one. my truck is a 02 Z71 with the 5.3 . what year corvette servo will work?i would appreciate any info you can help me with.
slowprocess, can you tell me more about the corvette servo? i know about shift kits and put one in my old 78 4X4. i am new to electronic transmissions i am used to turbo 350's and 400's , and dont know what is involved in using a corvette servo. is this something i may possibly be able to find in a salvage yard or be more advised to get a new one. my truck is a 02 Z71 with the 5.3 . what year corvette servo will work?i would appreciate any info you can help me with.
Mr. Northface
02-01-2005, 05:27 PM
Hey all, being new to the forums here......I am curious about your discussion.
I have the Predator Programmer on my 2003 TrailBlazer EXT 4X4 with the 5.3 & a 3.73 G80 locking rear.
Using the programmer definetely enhanced the power, but not as much as I would have liked. I heard about the torque managment & was wondering if anyone knows just how much of the management is removed from such a programmer?
I foolishly spent the hundred some dollars to have them do a "custom tune" for me which really didn't do anything extra IMO, but to get them to do anything more for me, they told me to Dyno my vehicle & e-mail them the results of the fuel to air ratio & whatever else they tell you about it.
Am I wasting my time with this handheld programmer?
I just like having the extra power from the extra's I have installed (TrueFlow Air Intake, Granatelli Mass Flow Air Sensor, Predator Power Programmer & a FlowMaster Exhaust).
I know it will never be a race car...didn't buy it for that purpose, but I would like a little more power out of her without causing an early grave for her.
Down low in the RPM's it is pretty slow. Once the tach goes past around 3000, it picks up from there really nice....still need better low end.
Trying to find anything for my TrailBlazer is such a pain.....tons of stuff for your Trucks & Tahoe's, but very scarceon the TB parts.
Can you guys help me? Point me in the right direction for the right parts?
About a Nelson tune....does it void out a factory warranty or no? Where can I get one done for me & will it be much of an improvement over the Predator?
THANK YOU
I have the Predator Programmer on my 2003 TrailBlazer EXT 4X4 with the 5.3 & a 3.73 G80 locking rear.
Using the programmer definetely enhanced the power, but not as much as I would have liked. I heard about the torque managment & was wondering if anyone knows just how much of the management is removed from such a programmer?
I foolishly spent the hundred some dollars to have them do a "custom tune" for me which really didn't do anything extra IMO, but to get them to do anything more for me, they told me to Dyno my vehicle & e-mail them the results of the fuel to air ratio & whatever else they tell you about it.
Am I wasting my time with this handheld programmer?
I just like having the extra power from the extra's I have installed (TrueFlow Air Intake, Granatelli Mass Flow Air Sensor, Predator Power Programmer & a FlowMaster Exhaust).
I know it will never be a race car...didn't buy it for that purpose, but I would like a little more power out of her without causing an early grave for her.
Down low in the RPM's it is pretty slow. Once the tach goes past around 3000, it picks up from there really nice....still need better low end.
Trying to find anything for my TrailBlazer is such a pain.....tons of stuff for your Trucks & Tahoe's, but very scarceon the TB parts.
Can you guys help me? Point me in the right direction for the right parts?
About a Nelson tune....does it void out a factory warranty or no? Where can I get one done for me & will it be much of an improvement over the Predator?
THANK YOU
jeverett
02-02-2005, 07:54 AM
I don't think it voids anything, You can get them from Allen Nelson @ www.nelsonperformance.com (http://www.nelsonperformance.com) and they will BLOW any handheld programmer out of the water. I had a Hypertech before this and its a waste of money. There are trucks indentical to mine around here w/Hypertech's and Superchips and such and they can't even hold a candle to mine.
Slowprocess
02-02-2005, 12:03 PM
[QUOTE=Slowprocess]Unfortunately yes, the only way to knock out the torque management is through a tune upgrade. I know the Predator programmer takes out some of the torque management, but I'm not sure on the Superchips or the Hypertech. My tuner took out 100% of my torque management because I have a fully built transmission. A tuner can take out as much torque management as you want percentage wise. I wouldn't recommend going to high if you don't have at least a shift kit or a corvette servo. If you had both of these, you could most likely get away with 100%. Torque management will slowly get worse as you get more mods, because you'll be making more torque than what it will allow between shifts. I know....it sucks!!! I fought it for a long time. :mad:[/QUOTE
slowprocess, can you tell me more about the corvette servo? i know about shift kits and put one in my old 78 4X4. i am new to electronic transmissions i am used to turbo 350's and 400's , and dont know what is involved in using a corvette servo. is this something i may possibly be able to find in a salvage yard or be more advised to get a new one. my truck is a 02 Z71 with the 5.3 . what year corvette servo will work?i would appreciate any info you can help me with.
The corvette servo is a simple/cheap way to make the transmissions shift more crisp and firm. They are very inexpensive(around $15), and can be bought at any online transmission store. In fact, I think I picked mine up off of ebay. I think I have a diagram on my home computer that shows exactly how to install the servo. It can be done without the removal of the tranny. It just simply installs in the side of the transmission in place of your stock servo. With the addition of the servo and the shift kit(I always recommend Transgo), your shifts will be so much more crisp and to the point. The shift kit will enable you to have the shifts where you want them, either just barely firmer than stock-all the way to yanking second gear. I'll post up a link to where I got my servo, and also will see if I can hunt down that diagram. They're definately worth the little money they cost. I just saw where you asked what year. You'll want a corvette servo for a 4l60e.
slowprocess, can you tell me more about the corvette servo? i know about shift kits and put one in my old 78 4X4. i am new to electronic transmissions i am used to turbo 350's and 400's , and dont know what is involved in using a corvette servo. is this something i may possibly be able to find in a salvage yard or be more advised to get a new one. my truck is a 02 Z71 with the 5.3 . what year corvette servo will work?i would appreciate any info you can help me with.
The corvette servo is a simple/cheap way to make the transmissions shift more crisp and firm. They are very inexpensive(around $15), and can be bought at any online transmission store. In fact, I think I picked mine up off of ebay. I think I have a diagram on my home computer that shows exactly how to install the servo. It can be done without the removal of the tranny. It just simply installs in the side of the transmission in place of your stock servo. With the addition of the servo and the shift kit(I always recommend Transgo), your shifts will be so much more crisp and to the point. The shift kit will enable you to have the shifts where you want them, either just barely firmer than stock-all the way to yanking second gear. I'll post up a link to where I got my servo, and also will see if I can hunt down that diagram. They're definately worth the little money they cost. I just saw where you asked what year. You'll want a corvette servo for a 4l60e.
Slowprocess
02-02-2005, 12:14 PM
Hey all, being new to the forums here......I am curious about your discussion.
I have the Predator Programmer on my 2003 TrailBlazer EXT 4X4 with the 5.3 & a 3.73 G80 locking rear.
Using the programmer definetely enhanced the power, but not as much as I would have liked. I heard about the torque managment & was wondering if anyone knows just how much of the management is removed from such a programmer?
I foolishly spent the hundred some dollars to have them do a "custom tune" for me which really didn't do anything extra IMO, but to get them to do anything more for me, they told me to Dyno my vehicle & e-mail them the results of the fuel to air ratio & whatever else they tell you about it.
Am I wasting my time with this handheld programmer?
I just like having the extra power from the extra's I have installed (TrueFlow Air Intake, Granatelli Mass Flow Air Sensor, Predator Power Programmer & a FlowMaster Exhaust).
I know it will never be a race car...didn't buy it for that purpose, but I would like a little more power out of her without causing an early grave for her.
Down low in the RPM's it is pretty slow. Once the tach goes past around 3000, it picks up from there really nice....still need better low end.
Trying to find anything for my TrailBlazer is such a pain.....tons of stuff for your Trucks & Tahoe's, but very scarceon the TB parts.
Can you guys help me? Point me in the right direction for the right parts?
About a Nelson tune....does it void out a factory warranty or no? Where can I get one done for me & will it be much of an improvement over the Predator?
THANK YOU
First thing, a Nelson tune will be a ton better than a handheld performance wise. No handheld unit can touch a custom tune. It's kinda like over the counter drugs as opposed to pescription drugs. They're good at healing you, they just don't work as good. I also noticed you have the 5.3L. This means you have a vast number of motor parts available at your command. Just remember, most of the stuff that works on an LS1 works on the 5.3L. Also, I've heard that the trailblazer converter stalls higher than the truck converters. That's a good thing. :biggrin: Just helps make those performance parts work that much more. You have turbo kits, superchargers,etc, so the only real setback is how much you want to spend. :) Just tell us where you would like to go with your ride and how crazy you're willing to go. I know it's hard to break into a new engine and start changing parts, but that 5.3L really loves a good cam swap!!!
BTW, we can tell you how to make your trailblazer a race car if you want us to. :biggrin:
I have the Predator Programmer on my 2003 TrailBlazer EXT 4X4 with the 5.3 & a 3.73 G80 locking rear.
Using the programmer definetely enhanced the power, but not as much as I would have liked. I heard about the torque managment & was wondering if anyone knows just how much of the management is removed from such a programmer?
I foolishly spent the hundred some dollars to have them do a "custom tune" for me which really didn't do anything extra IMO, but to get them to do anything more for me, they told me to Dyno my vehicle & e-mail them the results of the fuel to air ratio & whatever else they tell you about it.
Am I wasting my time with this handheld programmer?
I just like having the extra power from the extra's I have installed (TrueFlow Air Intake, Granatelli Mass Flow Air Sensor, Predator Power Programmer & a FlowMaster Exhaust).
I know it will never be a race car...didn't buy it for that purpose, but I would like a little more power out of her without causing an early grave for her.
Down low in the RPM's it is pretty slow. Once the tach goes past around 3000, it picks up from there really nice....still need better low end.
Trying to find anything for my TrailBlazer is such a pain.....tons of stuff for your Trucks & Tahoe's, but very scarceon the TB parts.
Can you guys help me? Point me in the right direction for the right parts?
About a Nelson tune....does it void out a factory warranty or no? Where can I get one done for me & will it be much of an improvement over the Predator?
THANK YOU
First thing, a Nelson tune will be a ton better than a handheld performance wise. No handheld unit can touch a custom tune. It's kinda like over the counter drugs as opposed to pescription drugs. They're good at healing you, they just don't work as good. I also noticed you have the 5.3L. This means you have a vast number of motor parts available at your command. Just remember, most of the stuff that works on an LS1 works on the 5.3L. Also, I've heard that the trailblazer converter stalls higher than the truck converters. That's a good thing. :biggrin: Just helps make those performance parts work that much more. You have turbo kits, superchargers,etc, so the only real setback is how much you want to spend. :) Just tell us where you would like to go with your ride and how crazy you're willing to go. I know it's hard to break into a new engine and start changing parts, but that 5.3L really loves a good cam swap!!!
BTW, we can tell you how to make your trailblazer a race car if you want us to. :biggrin:
bowtieguy
02-02-2005, 12:26 PM
Slow thanks for the info. on the servo. what is the approx. cost for the transgo kit and being an electronically controlled tranny is there anything different installing one of these kits?
Slowprocess
02-02-2005, 09:02 PM
Slow thanks for the info. on the servo. what is the approx. cost for the transgo kit and being an electronically controlled tranny is there anything different installing one of these kits?
A transgo kit will usually go for around $90-$110 depending on where you get it from. There isn't a difference in the install. If you've done a shift kit on an older one, you should have no trouble with the install. That reminds me, I'll check my computer really quick and see if I can find that servo install. I'll post up the result. :)
A transgo kit will usually go for around $90-$110 depending on where you get it from. There isn't a difference in the install. If you've done a shift kit on an older one, you should have no trouble with the install. That reminds me, I'll check my computer really quick and see if I can find that servo install. I'll post up the result. :)
SocalSilverado
02-02-2005, 09:10 PM
Personally I would go with a Westers Tune from Westers Garage in Canada. Westers tune is one of the best things you can get for your truck.
jeverett
02-03-2005, 07:54 AM
Personally I would go with a Westers Tune from Westers Garage in Canada. Westers tune is one of the best things you can get for your truck.
What makes them so much better?
I'm 100% for Nelson. I guess it's just personal prefrence.
What makes them so much better?
I'm 100% for Nelson. I guess it's just personal prefrence.
SocalSilverado
02-03-2005, 12:37 PM
I wouldn't say one tune is better than the other(We could argue, but its pointless). I just prefer Westers tune, because of their cutomer service and warranty. Free replacement of the tune if it is ever reflashed and free lifetime updates. Nelson is cheaper and from what I'm told has huge performance increases. Any tune with GM is the way to go.
jeverett
02-03-2005, 01:14 PM
I agree. I just found out last night, a performance shop close to here also uses LS1edit and can tune, but I don't think he'll do it for me. He said he uses it for diagnostic purposes...
White Lightening
02-10-2005, 09:35 AM
Greetings,
This tuning chip process is quite a new learning issue. I knew that some computer alterations were done by mechanics etc. - but I'm qwuite surprised to find out just how very common it is to make choices that are not factory standards. And the number of choices and alterations that can be chosen is really surprising.
Much more yet to learn before making a decision.
White Lightening
This tuning chip process is quite a new learning issue. I knew that some computer alterations were done by mechanics etc. - but I'm qwuite surprised to find out just how very common it is to make choices that are not factory standards. And the number of choices and alterations that can be chosen is really surprising.
Much more yet to learn before making a decision.
White Lightening
ryanszpara
02-10-2005, 05:12 PM
how do you know what tuner to buy (not a frequent drag strip driver)
Also how do you know what to tune? whats too much and what types of things do you change?
Also how do you know what to tune? whats too much and what types of things do you change?
White Lightening
02-11-2005, 12:07 AM
how do you know what tuner to buy (not a frequent drag strip driver)
Also how do you know what to tune? whats too much and what types of things do you change?
Greetings Ryanszpara,
Great question for many of us that aren't wrenchers. You've got the racing group of drivers - chances are they know exactly what they want done. There are the street racers/stop[light screechers or appearance mod guys - and they have a different set of needs. Finally there are normal drivers like me with yet a thrid different set of desires.
Two choices exist. You can ask someone who knows (but you have to describe what your goals are to them) - or you go to a tuner like Nelson etc. and list for them what your goals are for the truck and let them design the characteristics. I already did a preliminary contact with Nelson - and my goals have nothing to do with racing or 1/4 mile times - I want to get best overall power band performance range from my truck - and improved gas mileage using premium gas. He'll figure out torque management, shifting, etc.. Many want 1/4 mile speed improvements - a low priority to me.
White Lightening
Also how do you know what to tune? whats too much and what types of things do you change?
Greetings Ryanszpara,
Great question for many of us that aren't wrenchers. You've got the racing group of drivers - chances are they know exactly what they want done. There are the street racers/stop[light screechers or appearance mod guys - and they have a different set of needs. Finally there are normal drivers like me with yet a thrid different set of desires.
Two choices exist. You can ask someone who knows (but you have to describe what your goals are to them) - or you go to a tuner like Nelson etc. and list for them what your goals are for the truck and let them design the characteristics. I already did a preliminary contact with Nelson - and my goals have nothing to do with racing or 1/4 mile times - I want to get best overall power band performance range from my truck - and improved gas mileage using premium gas. He'll figure out torque management, shifting, etc.. Many want 1/4 mile speed improvements - a low priority to me.
White Lightening
jeverett
02-11-2005, 06:43 AM
I just wanted mine to haul ass!!
I got exactly what I asked for.
I got exactly what I asked for.
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