Mike:

I have what may be a dumb question. I ask you because I have read many of your post and you are nothing but a wealth of information and straight talk.

So here goes. I know the Superchip requires a higher octane fuel because of the reprogramming. I have read where you stated that there are many compromises the factory builds in that hurt performance & powertrain response.

I do believe that is what happens but my question is why does the factory do that? Is it solely for fuel mileage and emissions? From what I understand, and I could be wrong, but the Superchip program actually helps the motor run more efficient, and though I have seen you state not to buy it for better fuel mileage, some have seen some improvements, if they keep their foot out of it. So even if it is a small gain it is still a gain.

Anyway I was wondering if you might be able to elaborate on why factories don’t tune motors to run as efficient as possible.

Thanks…

 

Hi 01,

This is a frequently asked question (one of the most basic things many people want to know, if we can improve upon their calibrations for the powertrain, why don't the *automakers* do what we do), & I'd use the search feature to go back and read the wealth of info that's been discussed about that specifically.

In short, Ford (and other automakers) aren't going to tune their engines in non-performance vehicles to require the use of premium gasoline, as that would hurt vehicle sales tremendously, especially in bread & butter vehicles like trucks, SUV's, the Taurus, etc.

Now in terms of the various delays & retards, soft-shift atrategies in the automatics, etc., much of that is just the automakers trying to make these vehicles "smoother," so that more women will buy them. Women buy more than half of all new vehicles sold in America regardless of vehicle type, and they are involved in the purchase decision over 70% of the time in *ALL* new vehicles sold. Ever since the automakers figured that out back in the mid to late 80's, they've been implementing soft-shift strategies, repositioning armrests, shortening bottom seat cushions (much to the dismay of many males, who tend to be taller & have longer legs), etc., all in an effort to make them more appealing to the single largest buying group, females.

So it's really about what the automakers think will provide *maximum* vehicles sales, is the bottom line.

That's the short version, for all the details use the search feature & you'll be able to pull up posts where I've gone into a bit more detail, etc if you like.

 

Thanks Mike...