Thinking about tuning your car? LOOK HERE FIRST!

[Bu11dogg2]

For some people in the Subaru community the idea of tuning their ECU is an easy concept... For the other 98% it's a pretty scary thought.

When I bought my first Suby I was scared to death to throw a basic stg1 tune on... many thoughts crossed my mind... like: what if my motor blows up? what if a dealer voids my warranty? what if I fry my ECU?

I soon got over my fears and purchased the COBB AP and eventually went nuts with an upgraded turbo/TMIC and a crazy 104 octane dyno tune :eek:

For those of you who are sitting here reading this and considering tuning your car for the first time.... have no fear....just continue reading or check this THREAD (http://www.newenglandsubarus.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1594)out first :)


There are a few different ways you can tune your car.

First is using a basic OTS (off the shelf) map, loaded using the COBB AP (access port)

ACCESSPORT TUNING:
http://premium1.uploadit.org/cultofthejedi/accessport-005.jpg

The COBB access port is used to modify your cars ECU (computer). It has a wide range of maps (tunes/upgrades) for your car including:
1. Antitheft mode (immobilizes the ignition)
2. Economy mode (better gas mileage)
3. COBB stg 1 + 2 maps
4. Valet mode (set the rev limiter to 3000RPM so punk valets can't abuse your ride)
5. Empty slots to download maps from your tuner i.e. TDC/PDX/other

There are 2 versions of the COBB access port.

The first version (V1) is engine/year/transmission specific. It looks like the one in the picture above.

The second version (V2) is smaller and can be used on any turbo 2.5 motor. Only the maps are car dependant.

COBB AP's can run anywhere from $250 (used/unmarried) to $800 new.

They are very easy to use and depending on the model, take less then 40 minutes to transform your car from stock, to Stg1/2.

They work by altering the existing perimeters on the cars ECU and allowing a more air/fuel and timing. It plugs into your cars OBDII.

Horsepower increase varies by year and model of your suby, but generally hangs around 25-50 MORE horsepower.

Best of all... it can be removed prior to service visits and is untraceable if it is not married (married = maps from the AP are on your ECU)

This is the best option for those of you who only want minor upgrades that won't permanently change/alter your car.

It is also a good bet for those who plan on going to stage 2 and stopping, or use only dyno tunes for their car.

ECU tuning for your N/A:
http://www.newenglandsubarus.com/forums/showthread.php?t=4430


Open Source Engine Management:
The second type of tuning is open source,custom tune or self tune. Several programs have been created to allow a owner to use a computer to alter the perimeters of their ECU. The Laptop plugs into the ECU via the OBDII port and can read the stock perimeters.

Most members use EcuTek

*NOTE*
Subaru's are like human beings. Each car is different, and believe it or not, each car runs differently. Stock, fresh from the dealer ECU's are programed with a "learning ECU" it learns the working s of the engine and manages it accordingly. COBB OTS maps are just a variant of the stock map. They also learn and adjust according to YOUR particular engine.

When self tuning YOU set all of the parameters for your ECU. Which means that is you mess up.... kaboom!

HOWEVER, since self tuning is not a new concept there are hundreds of free maps out there that are similar to the COBB OTS maps or your local tuners maps.

Self tuning is by far the cheapest method and the only cost you really have is software which can cost anywhere from FREE-$500 and an OBDII cord which usually runs around $20.

Like I mentioned before this is by far the cheapest way to tune your car ;)

PiggyBack Engine Management/Tuning:
This an additional ECU/Computer that is added along side of your stock ECU that controls only certain aspects of a map. This is complicated to install and is quite time consuming.

This would be the best bet for someone with advanced technical skill and deep pockets :lol:

Stand Alone Engine Management:
This completely replaces your ECU with an aftermarket unit. These units are far easier to tune and allow you to do many, many more things then the stock ECU will allow you to.

This would be the best bet for someone with advanced technical skill and deep pockets :lol:

Street Tune/Dyno Tune:

A good tuner can tune or tune with any of the above options.

They may use COBB software or EcuTek. This one works by placing the car on an AWD dyno meter and recording the engines functions on to a laptop/desktop. The tuner then takes this information and alters it to increase HP.

A tuner can then either load the map on your ECU or put it on an AP.

You can connect your laptop to your car, drive to certain speeds, record the readouts, and have a tuner from anywhere in the world analyze it and send you a map specific to your car.

Dyno tune is the best way to squeeze the most HP out of your car.

Dyno tune info

http://www.newenglandsubarus.com/forums/showthread.php?t=14707

Helpful Hints/Links:
1. this a book by Jeff Hartman about tuning ;) http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0760315825/qid=1119806507/sr=8-1/ref=pd_bbs_1/002-4040349-5013655?v=glance&s=books&n=507846
2. NASIOC threads: http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=427570
http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=466979
3. Datalogger software: http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=782573
http://www.tari.co.za/products.htm
http://www.ecutek.com/
http://mpsav.com/MPSUTECLogger/MPS_UTECLogger_Download.htm
http://65.6.129.58/autologger/versions.asp
http://www.fullthrottlespeed.com/itemDesc.asp?CartId={DF6EC127-BACC-46D6-A5F3-55EVEREST20B1ABA088}&ic=050SCANWRX (http://www.fullthrottlespeed.com/itemDesc.asp?CartId=%7BDF6EC127-BACC-46D6-A5F3-55EVEREST20B1ABA088%7D&ic=050SCANWRX)
4. Misc:
Knock detection http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=768081
http://www.smcenterprises.com/egt.htm
Tips from COBB http://www.cobbforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=31091

[Bu11dogg2]

Additionally:

If you have any questions, no matter how stupid you think it is, please feel free to ask.

Here at SCS we take pride in the fact that we welcome new/old users questions and WILL not answer them in a derogatory way like they do on other forums.

We were all new to tuning at one point.

Also,

Please feel free to PM me or Murphy2012 with questions regarding tuning :)

[Bu11dogg2]

anyone have anything to add?

[kgj996]

Murphy2012 wants me to show him how to tune. :lol:

[wagonmafia]

i can add that if you wanna drive in a car that needs a tune im free all afternoon. i like what is happening on the site. keep up the good work Randy ....

[Bu11dogg2]

he's a smart guy.

I'm sure he'll blow his motor up..... err.... I mean be ok :hide:

[kgj996]

i can add that if you wanna drive in a car that needs a tune im free all afternoon. i like what is happening on the site. keep up the good work Randy ....

I second that. Keep the tech info posting!

If anyone wants some help will any of the above feel free to pm me, I've had and tuned with all of the above. I currently run the new Hydra 2.6 stand alone unit, but I started with the cobb ap and then tuned for a while with romraider's open source software.

[wagonmafia]

and will be again today..lol Kevin should i bring some beverages.

[sweetassmove]

is i get a downpipe, i was told to get it tuned? thats best idea?

[Bu11dogg2]

yes!

once you go catless or highflow your 02 sensors need to be tuned around, or with the pipes.

DEF GET AN AP or opensource tune with a DP.

If you're 05 or older get an STi catless uppipe. Might as well do them both while you are in there.

[kgj996]

and will be again today..lol Kevin should i bring some beverages.
Yes! :D

[sweetassmove]

where is a good place to get tuned, if i get a downpipe? around portsmouth or so

[method]

DSG is the closest place I know of--anyone else?

[kgj996]

where is a good place to get tuned, if i get a downpipe? around portsmouth or so

Do you have a cobb ap or are you planning on getting an open source tune?

[sweetassmove]

im planning on going on open source tune, maybe getting a cobb ap but not right now

[kgj996]

im planning on going on open source tune, maybe getting a cobb ap but not right now

After getting an open source tune, you won't have any want or need to buy an AP.

[Murphy2012]

I want to get into tuning my car soon. Any good literature anyone recommends besides the stuff in the OP?

[Nate8409]

Since you already have the Accessport just download the free tuning software for it.

That is what I have right now and it is just like Street Tuner was on my old WRX.

Really though just go browse the Cobb forums. There are many articles that teach you what each table does and how to do it. There is a huge PDF somewhere that explains everything in detail and how to change it for the better. Dos and don'ts etc etc. I have it on my laptop at home and could post it here later on.

Soon as you know what the tables do then it is super easy to do it.

[sweetassmove]

how much would if cost me to get a open tune?

[Murphy2012]

Where can you get the free software Nate? I thought street tuner cost money?

[kgj996]

Where can you get the free software Nate? I thought street tuner cost money?

Cobbtuning.com has the free download. I think it works the same as the older street tuner from cobb for the v1 ap, but for the v2 ap. There is a thread on nasioc about it under the engine management thread. There is a link there to download it.

[Nick S.]

Murphy2012 wants me to show him how to tune.

And you wanted me to show you how to tune before you learned, and I don't even have a subaru!

Kevin has learned a lot in the last year and is capible of tuning many different systems. He's a good guy to go to for help.

I'm going to have to agree the site seems to be going in a better direction now. Good job Randy. Some day I may even have to show up to another meet.

[Bu11dogg2]

I'm going to have to agree the site seems to be going in a better direction now. Good job Randy. Some day I may even have to show up to another meet.


I can't do it all on my own.

Members complained there weren't enough tech threads, so I posted some.

I need help from the members too.

[Kevin]

Where can you get the free software Nate? I thought street tuner cost money?

its free for the v2 accessports. for the V1 it still a extra cost.

[kgj996]

I found this awesome thread on tuning that has every piece of background info on tuning you could want! Check it out and read it a few times if you are interested in tuning, or even getting your car tuned by someone else, so you know what is going on. Click HERE (http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1626520)

[Bu11dogg2]

great thread :)

[25rSTI]

ok. im gonna go 'head and try to help in keeping this thread alive.

As some of you know already I'm Derek the proud owner of my 2002 2.5RS soon to be converted to a 2002 WRX Hybrid. My question to you guys is...

Can anyone guess-timate how much whp I'm looking at having after my swap+tune?

Here's the mod list.

STi Shortblock
WRX heads slighty ported
BC 262/262 Cams
BC valve springs+retainers
STi Oil Pump
STi Water Pump
STi Oil Pan
STi Idlers+Sprocket+Tensioners
Pink STi Timing Belt
Stock STi Headgasket cr estimated @ 9:5
Gruppe-S EL Headers
Perrin Uppipe
VF39
Perrin Downpipe
SPT Catback
Perrin Tubo Inlet
SPT shortram Intake
Perrin Fuel Rails
Walbro 255lb Fuel Pump
DeatchWerkz 650cc Injectors
TGV Deletes
STI TMIC
Perrin Crank Pulley
Perrin Electronic Boost Control Solenoid
Mishimoto Radiator
Gimmick Motorsports Radiator Hoses
Greddy Oil Catch Can
Excedy Racing Clutch
ACT Streetlite Flywheel

thanks

[Bu11dogg2]

300WHP or less

The VF39 and TMIC are your real constrictions

[Robk0000]

you can get more than 300 hp on the vf39. Ive seen numbers around 350. But thats with supporting mods. Cobb tuning has a map for TMIC, vf39 turbo back and sti pink rated at 341 atw.

[kgj996]

I think the real constraints with this set up is the 9:5 cr and the 650 cc injectors. On pump gas, you will be limited on boost without knocking and you will need to run richer depending on your timing, in the boost. I think your best bet is to either use the proper head gaskets to get a lower cr, swap out your pistons to get a lower cr, or be happy running lower boost and less timing on pump gas, especially with a top mount ic. But with c16 you could make some nasty numbers with the high cr.

With the stock cast pistons, knock and det will be your worst enemy. If I were you, I would change the pistons out for new forged ones that will lower the cr to at least 8.5:1.

[25rSTI]

i do understand that the vf39 will only allow so much power and the intercooler can only support so much and the injectors will only fuel what its capacity allows it to, but from what ive been told @ synaptic my c/r wont be holding me back any and was told if i just add water meth to my already existing setup it should screw.

ps 300whp is nothing to be ashamed of right?? im going from a 200k mile sohc 2.5rs maybe 100whp>dohc wrx hybrid 300whp

[kgj996]

Water/meth will also do the trick. But if that system fails it won't be pretty. It probably costs the same to just swap out the pistons if the block is out of the car that a water/meth kit would, and it will be more capable in the future.

[25rSTI]

i understand the piston part for safety and the reliability for more power. But for 300-350 I should be good right?

[kgj996]

As long as your tuner is comfortable with tuning it and has tuned one similar before, you should be fine. One the up side, your torque curve should be sweet!

[mdungelman]

I think the OP should be updated regarding n/a tuning, since the ecu can be romraided.

[25rSTI]

sorry :(...

[mdungelman]

Sorry my car is slow:(

[Bu11dogg2]

I think the OP should be updated regarding n/a tuning, since the ecu can be romraided.


Do you mind editing it?

I'll change it initially.

[Bombay994]

i do understand that the vf39 will only allow so much power and the intercooler can only support so much and the injectors will only fuel what its capacity allows it to, but from what ive been told @ synaptic my c/r wont be holding me back any and was told if i just add water meth to my already existing setup it should screw.

ps 300whp is nothing to be ashamed of right?? im going from a 200k mile sohc 2.5rs maybe 100whp>dohc wrx hybrid 300whp

Did my hybrid with the stock STI HG, so my CR ratio is a bit high, I can't run as much boost in high RPM's. For me this loss was more than compensated for with the out of boost torque down low, and the quicker spool times. GL with the build

[25rSTI]

thanks. that makes me releived because im not looking to go 100+ on the highway or anything. ive been there and done that :( BIG TICKETS

[GC4-RS]

im curious about the RomRaider product....

[GC4-RS]

BUMP

can anyone tell me about the RomRaider?

[GC4-RS]

bump

can anyone direct me to info on the romraider maybe? have had no luck finding anything. maybe im not looking hard enough.

[Bu11dogg2]

huh... I thought I posted in here already...


I'll dig something up here in a few

[Robk0000]

I need a tactrix cable, after going to tactrix.com i found its just a plug that goes into the obd thing and a usb cable. Is this what im looking for? Tactrix 2.0


Im going to be retuning my car after the motor is complete and looking to either buy a cheap one or get a new one. whichever. Need by this coming weekend.

[Bombay994]

the tactrix 2.0 is what you want rob, so long as all the obdII port wires were put in correctly with your swap you should be all set. Tuning is almost impossible without the WB02 you got one already?
good luck
brad

[Robk0000]

yeah its obd2, and i do have a wideband O2 sensor. I just have to unplug it from the plx gauges.

thanks!

[Subyspeed]

hey gus im new here and i could really use some advice
Any ways im planning on buying a cobb acces port but since my STI is an 07 its still under warranty and i would rather not void it so how do u make sure it stays "un married" and if i were to find a used one would someone elses maps be on there all ready or is there a way to reaset it or are the old maps ok?

[RCKSTR]

this thread is proving to be usefull :)

[mdennett99]

i am looking to go stage 2 on my 05 lgt, but i am having so issues choosing a dp. do i go catted or catless? will going with a cat make me lose the opportunity to make more power? bell-mouth or divorced? does the divorced dp really let there be less turbulence? i love power, but i want to do it right the first time and keep it drivable. i also have the 5eat witch makes it that much more of an issue. any help will be good help, thanks

[Pulski]

hey gus im new here and i could really use some advice
Any ways im planning on buying a cobb acces port but since my STI is an 07 its still under warranty and i would rather not void it so how do u make sure it stays "un married" and if i were to find a used one would someone elses maps be on there all ready or is there a way to reaset it or are the old maps ok?

The AP will marry itself to the ECU when you install it. This must happen before you upload any maps to it. However, it makes a backup of your stock map. When you un-marry the AP, it flashes your ECU back to its stock form, and should be fine for the dealer.

If you buy a used AP, you should have any custom maps on there unless they removed them. The OTS (Off the shelf) maps are all available through Cobb's website if they are not on there already. Those are your basic stage 1, 2, etc. maps.

[Pulski]

i am looking to go stage 2 on my 05 lgt, but i am having so issues choosing a dp. do i go catted or catless? will going with a cat make me lose the opportunity to make more power? bell-mouth or divorced? does the divorced dp really let there be less turbulence? i love power, but i want to do it right the first time and keep it drivable. i also have the 5eat witch makes it that much more of an issue. any help will be good help, thanks

From what I know, there is no significant power difference between going catted and catless, especially at stage 2. The newer high flow cats have almost no impact on performance. I say, for legal reasons, it's better to just get a catted one.

As for Bell-mouth/Divorced: STis have had trouble on some cars with boost creep on bell-mouth downpipes, as opposed to Divorced. WRXs have not had this issue as far as I know. The one benefit to the divorced DP that I have is that the WG pipe goes around the high flow cat. :) I can't say for sure which will be better for your car, but you probably won't have trouble with either design on the LGT.

The other thing I will add, which you may already know, is this: If you have a catted uppipe, do not do a downpipe without doing the uppipe, and do not do it at all without tuning. Once you tune the car, the cat will be running hotter than usual. If it breaks apart, it can blow chunks into your turbo causing a huge problem. Also, you will get very little performance from just an exhaust compared to an exhaust and a tune.

[mdennett99]

that sound good, anyone else i would really like more than just one persons answer. i just dont want to f*** up the car!

[Pulski]

From: http://www.jscspeed.com/lgt/downpipe/invidia_lg_downpipe.htm

WARNING:On the 05-07 LGT there are boost spike or creep issues in all cases with the use of an aftermarket downpipe or turboback that uses a bellmouth or external dump tube design. This is because the 2.5L engine pushes so much air. Even with the internal wastegate fully open, not enough air can exit to stop spinning the turbo, the result is boost creep or boost spike. You can fix the problem by porting the stock turbo's wastegate passage (any exhaust shop should be able to do this or it can be done at home) or you can get an engine management system to fix the issue, like a UTEC or AccessPORT.

[Pulski]

So, the moral of that, if you plan to go Stage 2, I would get a boost gauge to be safe and plan to port the WG on the turbo.

[mdennett99]

i never knew that, thanks! and will a pro-tune do the same thing? i don't want to go accessport, seeing that im still covered under warranty

[Bu11dogg2]

Access is easiest if you're warranty. You easily remove and change maps.

[mdennett99]

i thought that the AP maps are really Conservative?

[Pulski]

They are, but they're still an upgrade. Strictly speaking, "Protuners" use the AP for their maps. Whatever map you put into the car with an AP can be reverted to stock easily when needed.

If you go Open Source, you can still easily revert to stock if you backed up the original, but it is a little bit more work.

[Julex]

It's not really more work, you just have to put your laptop in the car and load stock tune. Open source is what I use, but I have experience tuning. There are a lot of guys on Romraider ready to help you get a good base tune with your supporting mods, and point you in the direction you need to go to get tune it to safe peak performance.

On a side note, people who say conservative is safe, really couldn't be more wrong, in some cases conservative can cause more problems. Engines running in a sweet spot, make more, safer power. Conservative tunes can cause over fueling, crappy fuel burn, which all can lead to clogged cats, and cause build-up. I'm referring to timing and fueling tuning, boost obviously adds more stress, the more air your pushing in. Boost is the only thing that could be conservative and be safer, assuming your fueling right.

[Demetry]

I have boost creep issues in my '07 WRX. Cobb states on their site that the restrictor pill in the 07 WRX and STI's are a different size than previous years and highly recommends not to use a catless DP with it. Stock the IWG does fine but once modified Ive had issues with it and can get the CEL and flashing cruise in the middle of a highway pull if I push it. I'm changing my set up (turbo, TMIC, FP, uppipe, EWG...)and will be running EWG in the next week or two so I'm looking forward to that.

[Subyspeed]

I have boost creep issues in my '07 WRX. Cobb states on their site that the restrictor pill in the 07 WRX and STI's are a different size than previous years and highly recommends not to use a catless DP with it. Stock the IWG does fine but once modified Ive had issues with it and can get the CEL and flashing cruise in the middle of a highway pull if I push it. I'm changing my set up (turbo, TMIC, FP, uppipe, EWG...)and will be running EWG in the next week or two so I'm looking forward to that.

what causes the cruise light to flash cuz my 07 sti does that when i really get on it some times. I reset it and there never seems to be any serious problem but i would rather it not even happen. is there something i can do to not make it happen?

[Demetry]

what causes the cruise light to flash cuz my 07 sti does that when i really get on it some times. I reset it and there never seems to be any serious problem but i would rather it not even happen. is there something i can do to not make it happen?


The wastegate is not able to flow enough gases which causes the turbo to over spin which = boost creep...a P&P turbo/wastegate would help, external wastegate, or a stock car. I've also heard a catted DP Vs catless helps, I'm running catless and have issues but I will only have that problem for the next week or two until I go EWG. I think you can change out the restrictor pill as well but I think the P&P or EWG are the best solutions, unfortunately. I'm so sick of it I went and bought the EWG set up...as it is now I cant even do a highway pull if I want and feel confident it wont happen. GLhttp://www.newenglandsubarus.com/forums/images/icons/icon14.gif

[Julex]

The CEL is most likely not related to the Boost spike, or else you'd go into limp mode. The CEL is because the 2nd oxygen sensor is essentially saying the air volume is wrong, which isn't bad, means more power. So 2 ways to get around it that I know of, is move the 2nd o2 sensor down farther, or disable the code. boost spikes may happen on a catless downpipe, since exhaust gases are aloud to flow unrestricted causing the turbo to spin faster, creating more boost at a faster rate, which is good, but once you outflow your IWG you'll start having higher boost levels then what your setup for.

Demetry if you were getting the CEL, you should have asked Cobb for a CEL fix tune, which essential disables the 2nd o2 from reporting the error, and allowing you to use Cruise control lol.

[Demetry]

what causes the cruise light to flash cuz my 07 sti does that when i really get on it some times. I reset it and there never seems to be any serious problem but i would rather it not even happen. is there something i can do to not make it happen?


what code are you getting when this happens?

[Subyspeed]

i never looked up the code i just reset it using the key trick.

[Julex]

I'll put money your throwing a oxygen sensor bank 2 high voltage, if your running a catless downpipe. The cruise light turning on with engine light, usually means you have something wrong with your air tract, could be a MAF sensor, to O2 sensor, to anything in between.

[Robk0000]

I cannot get my laptop to communicate with my ecu. Its pissing me off.

I ahve a brandy new tatrix cable with OpenPort cable. I downloaded the Open ECU driver for the cable, new definitions.

I go into the car, plug the bish in to the obd port. Start the car and try to "connect" or refresh the com ports and i get nothing? Wtf am i doing wrong?

[Jon]

had that issue last time i tried it on Golfa's car with my cable. I got it working on my car by starting up ECUexplorer. That worked great, the got romraider working too. see if ECU flash connects.

[Robk0000]

i was just looking at tactrix.com about the convertor i got and it says that ECU flash is not supported for logging atm with Openport 2.0
So i can flash but i cannot log? wtf, thats stupid.


WORKING NOW


Reflash of ISO 9141 Subarus
Reflash of CAN (ISO 15765) Subarus
Reflash of Evo 5/6/7/8/9/10
J2534 DLL
CAN
ISO 15765
ISO 14230
ISO 9141
NOT ENABLED - DEVELOPMENT IN PROGRESS


J1850 (PWM/VPW)
Logging to microSD
EcuFlash logging software
Mac/OSX support



Im going to download a few other logging programs and see if any of them work.

i have
Romraider
ecuexplorer
Tari Racing logger < isnt free but sweet program, only using the trial
EcuEdit

[Subyspeed]

The wastegate is not able to flow enough gases which causes the turbo to over spin which = boost creep...a P&P turbo/wastegate would help, external wastegate, or a stock car. I've also heard a catted DP Vs catless helps, I'm running catless and have issues but I will only have that problem for the next week or two until I go EWG. I think you can change out the restrictor pill as well but I think the P&P or EWG are the best solutions, unfortunately. I'm so sick of it I went and bought the EWG set up...as it is now I cant even do a highway pull if I want and feel confident it wont happen. GLhttp://www.newenglandsubarus.com/forums/images/icons/icon14.gif

:rofl: This may be a dumb question but i dont know much about turbo's so i was wondering if a new bov would make this worse?

[Seraphinwolf]

:( I need a ROM burner or $1300 for a Hydra for the SVX. I'm already getting a Hydra for the Impreza.
-Gaddis

[R-raid]

I am glad I looked here first

[Bu11dogg2]

I'm glad this helps :)

If anyone has info to add, please lemme know!

[Bombay994]

:rofl: This may be a dumb question but i dont know much about turbo's so i was wondering if a new bov would make this worse?

new BOV wouldn't have an effect on creep, creep is only due to too much exhaust gas going through the turbo, it doesn't have much to do with the cold side of the turbo.

[02bluewrx]

i want to be able to hook up my laptop see everything air fuel ratio and and adjust it while im driving and adjust everything else i need to and see what im putting out for torque and horsepower. is there a way to do this? i know a guy just rebuilt his talon and thats what he did and thats what i would like to do.

[Bu11dogg2]

Open Source Engine Management:
The second type of tuning is open source,custom tune or self tune. Several programs have been created to allow a owner to use a computer to alter the perimeters of their ECU. The Laptop plugs into the ECU via the OBDII port and can read the stock perimeters.

Most members use EcuTek

*NOTE*
Subaru's are like human beings. Each car is different, and believe it or not, each car runs differently. Stock, fresh from the dealer ECU's are programed with a "learning ECU" it learns the working s of the engine and manages it accordingly. COBB OTS maps are just a variant of the stock map. They also learn and adjust according to YOUR particular engine.

When self tuning YOU set all of the parameters for your ECU. Which means that is you mess up.... kaboom!

HOWEVER, since self tuning is not a new concept there are hundreds of free maps out there that are similar to the COBB OTS maps or your local tuners maps.

Self tuning is by far the cheapest method and the only cost you really have is software which can cost anywhere from FREE-$500 and an OBDII cord which usually runs around $20.

Like I mentioned before this is by far the cheapest way to tune your car ;)


Helpful Hints/Links:
1. this a book by Jeff Hartman about tuning ;) http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg...books&n=507846 (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0760315825/qid=1119806507/sr=8-1/ref=pd_bbs_1/002-4040349-5013655?v=glance&s=books&n=507846)
2. NASIOC threads: http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=427570
http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=466979
3. Datalogger software: http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=782573
http://www.tari.co.za/products.htm
http://www.ecutek.com/
http://mpsav.com/MPSUTECLogger/MPS_U...r_Download.htm (http://mpsav.com/MPSUTECLogger/MPS_UTECLogger_Download.htm)
http://65.6.129.58/autologger/versions.asp
http://www.fullthrottlespeed.com/itemDesc.asp?CartId={DF6EC127-BACC-46D6-A5F3-55EVEREST20B1ABA088}&ic=050SCANWRX (http://www.fullthrottlespeed.com/itemDesc.asp?CartId=%7BDF6EC127-BACC-46D6-A5F3-55EVEREST20B1ABA088%7D&ic=050SCANWRX)
4. Misc:
Knock detection http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=768081
http://www.smcenterprises.com/egt.htm
Tips from COBB http://www.cobbforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=31091

[02bluewrx]

[QUOTE=Bu11dogg2;138602]hey thanks that will be a big help

[RCKSTR]

i want to be able to hook up my laptop see everything air fuel ratio and and adjust it while im driving and adjust everything else i need to and see what im putting out for torque and horsepower. is there a way to do this? i know a guy just rebuilt his talon and thats what he did and thats what i would like to do.


talkin about james right? mitsubishis are ALOT easier to tune and alot more forgiving when you mess up :o
just do alot of research and you'll do just fine :D

[02bluewrx]

talkin about james right? mitsubishis are ALOT easier to tune and alot more forgiving when you mess up :o
just do alot of research and you'll do just fine :D

haha yea i was talking about james lol... he brought it over to the shop the other day and it looks good alex told me it was quick

[BG @ BrenTuning]

If you guys have any tuning questions, I'll monitor this thread. LMK

[wrxtuner82]

If you guys have any tuning questions, I'll monitor this thread. LMK

Hey Bren, can you read my thread in Engine, Intake, Exhaust about my check engine light? Thanks

[07STIkid]

I just ordered a Cobb AP for an 06-07 STI, I should have it next week if anyone wants to give me any pointers before I start or be there while I do it.

[Bu11dogg2]

I'd be more than happy to help you out :)

[07STIkid]

Thanks man, I'll let you know when it arrives. Anyone else who may also be new to tuning can join us if you want. Or if you've been thinking about doing a tune you can see how my car runs before and after.

[BG @ BrenTuning]

download a program called learning view from google and check out the car before you do the flash. Especially a 2007.

[Bu11dogg2]

Hey Bren, wasn't it the 07 STi's that had the Cyl#4 lean issue?

[Subyspeed]

Thanks man, I'll let you know when it arrives. Anyone else who may also be new to tuning can join us if you want. Or if you've been thinking about doing a tune you can see how my car runs before and after.

I just got a cobb ap and will be tuning my sti when it comes out of storage in summer and if you wouldnt mind i would like to join you guys. You can pm me when you guys have a day and time planned

[Bu11dogg2]

^ will do!

[07STIkid]

It will be here on the 5th so let me know when your available to help with the tune.

[Subyspeed]

I can help any day but a tuesday

It will be here on the 5th so let me know when your available to help with the tune.

[EWRXSHN]

Hey im new. just bought a 02 wrx off of turbotime05 looking to get it dynotuned. anyone know where i should go? i have the cobb accessport v2 and was told someplaces dont tune them. i live in NH

[etaks99rs]

Synaptic3 is right outside of Manchester. They are a vendor on here, so you could pm them to get a little more info. I know they tune and have a dyno. I don't know if they do Cobb AP tunes. Hope this helps!

[Bu11dogg2]

bump

[Bu11dogg2]

updated some info

[Bu11dogg2]

bump

[Bu11dogg2]

bumpo

[02wrxman]

looking over all the info what would be the best choose for me to get a pro tune or a AP im looking at being a stage 3 rex which i am sure i should go with the pro tune

any info would be great

[hiprsha666]

Definitely go protune. I don't even think Cobb has a stage 3 map. You will get better results with a protune regardless.

[xero287]

Hey, I'll be around Nashua for spring break and I have an 05 lgt. I'm looking to get a stage 1 tune on the cheap side

[BG @ BrenTuning]

looking over all the info what would be the best choose for me to get a pro tune or a AP im looking at being a stage 3 rex which i am sure i should go with the pro tune

any info would be great

Custom tune......

[02wrxman]

Custom tune......

i see so i will be emailing or calling you very soon cause the list is almost done that was given to me and saving up money for the dyno tune

[fbodydude53]

I cant wait to put on all my stage 2 goodies and get a tune!!

[BG @ BrenTuning]

i see so i will be emailing or calling you very soon cause the list is almost done that was given to me and saving up money for the dyno tune

look forward to it

[eckman]

I haven't seen anything in regards to TurboXS UTEC system. I would like information comparing the Cobb EM vs. TurboXS UTEC tuning capabilities. Many times folks bring up the fact that Cobb has the AP but for discussion sake let's leave that feature out.

In a controlled environment with the same tuner how do the packages differ? How are they the same? What gains do you get from each package?

[ilovemyr6]

Hey sorry if it's already been asked and I'm sure it has but what about tuning my 2.5i? Would i still get nearly 25hp gains? I had no idea you could get so much more hp on a car thru a tune then A bike does.

[Julex]

Just as a added info, Dynojet has a plug-n-play autotuner. Similar to the accessport, but I'd be willing to bet it'll be a much better choice, but that's just opinion based on first looks.

http://www.dynojetcmd.com/

[BG @ BrenTuning]

I haven't seen anything in regards to TurboXS UTEC system. I would like information comparing the Cobb EM vs. TurboXS UTEC tuning capabilities. Many times folks bring up the fact that Cobb has the AP but for discussion sake let's leave that feature out.

In a controlled environment with the same tuner how do the packages differ? How are they the same? What gains do you get from each package?

Utec works but reflashing has gone leaps and bounds beyond it years ago. A full reflash offers best control of the stock ECU.

[BG @ BrenTuning]

Hey sorry if it's already been asked and I'm sure it has but what about tuning my 2.5i? Would i still get nearly 25hp gains? I had no idea you could get so much more hp on a car thru a tune then A bike does.

12-15hp but the driveability changes make it a whole different car. Everyone raves about that when I finish the N/A's.

[eckman]

Utec works but reflashing has gone leaps and bounds beyond it years ago. A full reflash offers best control of the stock ECU.

What consists of a full reflash? UTEC controlls fuel, timing and boost. Does the Cobb EM do more? Or is the Cobb EM more indepth of those three tables?

Still, what benefits would one see changing to Cobb or purchasing over the UTEC?

[98Wagoon]

he's suggesting a protune over both I believe. theres many different advantages to having a protune vs cobb or utec. fuel, timing, boost, AFR, etc and the tuner can actually adjust the code for your particular car and mods and can dial it in throughout the powerband.

basically, since protuning has evolved into what it is now and the technology has advanced things like the utec have stayed relatively static and have obseleted themselves over the years.

[BG @ BrenTuning]

What consists of a full reflash? UTEC controlls fuel, timing and boost. Does the Cobb EM do more? Or is the Cobb EM more indepth of those three tables?

Still, what benefits would one see changing to Cobb or purchasing over the UTEC?

One could write for days on this topic, however you won't find any current support and supporters of a UTEC vs. a clean OEM style reflash.

The ECU flash guys have access to over 40-60 different tables, in uniformity. And over every rpm and load site of the powerband while the UTEC simply piggybacks and offsets whenever.

In EVERY platform it always works like this.......

1) Car comes out
2) DIY guys attach boost controllers and generic fuel controllers
3) Cars blow up
4) Overpriced Piggyback systems are figured out while the stock ecu is worked out (Unichip/UTEC/Xede)
5) Cars run OK but run into issues
6) Stock ECU tuning is figured out and Piggybacks are abandoned. Piggyback prices go from $1000 to $100. Tuners discontinue using Piggyback systems and switch over.
7) Open source guys hack ECU Tuning and tuning prices come down.

[BigRod]

^^^ Phenominal consolidation!

[Poindextrous]

Since you already have the Accessport just download the free tuning software for it.

That is what I have right now and it is just like Street Tuner was on my old WRX.

Really though just go browse the Cobb forums. There are many articles that teach you what each table does and how to do it. There is a huge PDF somewhere that explains everything in detail and how to change it for the better. Dos and don'ts etc etc. I have it on my laptop at home and could post it here later on.

Soon as you know what the tables do then it is super easy to do it.
Is there a link for this PDF? Very interested in reading this

[BG @ BrenTuning]

Is there a link for this PDF? Very interested in reading this

There were some major flaws in that sheet, like how to scale a big maf. :unamused:

[BogeyBones]

Utec works but reflashing has gone leaps and bounds beyond it years ago. A full reflash offers best control of the stock ECU.


what exactly is a reflash?

[hiprsha666]

Kind of like syncing a new playlist to your ipod...

[BogeyBones]

I dont have an ipod. :lol: But I know what you mean.

bren would you mind syncing "Wu-tang: Enter the 36 Chambers" to my ECU? That way I can bring da *********** ruckus.

[BG @ BrenTuning]

Free 36 chambers cd (Copy) with each dyno tune :)

[SicRedGt]

what exactly is a reflash?

Basicly your pulling the ROM image from the ECU, changing the image or parameters, then rewriting it back over the original ROM. Think of it as "burning" a new memory in the ECU.

[Poindextrous]

There were some major flaws in that sheet, like how to scale a big maf. :unamused:
dang, any other good reads out there? I want to learn/know what's going on before I come to you. Instead of just going "Bren, tune my ride" ... :lol:

[BG @ BrenTuning]

There's no sheet out there.....that really explains it so others can learn. You either know it or you don't :)