Hi Mike
I just received my SuperChip ('FlipChip' type) and have a couple questions about it's learning process. Anita tells me that the chip's programs differ only in the 87/92 octane inputs.

From searching previous posts I understand it takes ~1000 miles or so to be fully online.

Here are my questions:
1a. If I need to remove the chip for the vehicle to be serviced, after I reinstall it does it _retain_ the previous 'learning'?

1b.Will this answer differ based on whether the chip has completed the learning process or is still in the middle of it?

(I'm hoping it doesn't reinitialize somehow such that I go through the drill again.)

2. Does each switch setting need to go through the learning process or will one time do it?

It probably won't matter but the details are:
Programmer code ALT0ST12.
460/7.5l
Automatic
Banks PowerPack (headers, intake with K&N, catback exhaust

Thanks very much!

 

Hi Galaxie,

Good timing, I just happened to be here about the time you posted.

1a. No.

1b. No.

2. No, you won't start from scratch, once you've done the initial installation it only takes maybe 50-100 miles at most to get the full 100%, unless you are switching to premium from 87, in which case it will take however long it takes to get all the 87 octane out of the system.

It does NOT take anything like 1000 miles to get the full 100% power from the Superchips tuning after installation, it's more like 350-500 miles at most. Now in newer vehicles, say, about '99-'00 & up, it can take a couple thousand miles to see the absolute maximum effect on fuel mileage, but not on power.

As long as you properly clear the PCM after installation, it's going to work immediately, and you'll get easily 75%-80% of what that chip will ultimately do within the first 20-50 miles. It starts working *immediately*, there is no delay. It's just that it usually takes a tank of two of gas to get all the previous 87 octane out of the system and have only premium fuel in the vehicle, and thus be up to a full 100%, that's all.

When you run on the 87 octane program, that isn't nearly as much of a concern, as you're not changing octane levels. So figure within a couple hundred miles at most, you'll be up to 100% on the 87 octane program.

Absolute best results are not achieved by frequently switching programs & octane levels, when you go to premium you want to stay there for more than just a tank or two of premium gas to get the absolutely best results, but that isn't any kind of "requirement," use it however you like, & switch octanes & programs whenever you want.

Remember, adaptive strategy is ongoing, for the life of your vehicle, and every time you clear the PCM & change it's program you start from scratch. This is overestimated and misunderstood by many, it's really not a factor unless you want to do formal testing, say on a dyno or drag strip, etc. And in that kind of scenario, when you first switch over to premium, sure, it's going to take a couple-few tanks of gas to get all the 87 octane out, and get up to the full 100% power gain. That does not mean you don't get immediate power gains, of course you do. We're talking about that last 20% or so, that's all, and that's a matter of changing octanes & how long it takes you to get to 100% pure premium gas, basically.

Have fun & enjoy your new Flip Chip on that giant 460 motor!