Chip or Microtuner for my 98?
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From: WISCONSIN
Chip or Microtuner for my 98?
Looking for advice.
I've read the threads and still can't make up my mind. I suppose the microtuner is best even with my 98 not being able to take advantage of the speedo and transmission recals.
Lately I've been running premium because of a little pinging on my rig. It's got 54k on it and the warranty is over. Here in Phoenix we get that crappy California smog gas and it's been 110* or more everyday so my truck runs so much better with the 91 octane and with prices down now it really doesn't phase me anymore. If I'm gonna run the 91 octane I may as well get that chip I've been wanting.
This fall when the temps come down I'll clean my egr etc but it's so darn hot out right now I dont even want to wash my truck. It was 117* yesterday.
Thanks in advance for your replies.
John
I've read the threads and still can't make up my mind. I suppose the microtuner is best even with my 98 not being able to take advantage of the speedo and transmission recals.
Lately I've been running premium because of a little pinging on my rig. It's got 54k on it and the warranty is over. Here in Phoenix we get that crappy California smog gas and it's been 110* or more everyday so my truck runs so much better with the 91 octane and with prices down now it really doesn't phase me anymore. If I'm gonna run the 91 octane I may as well get that chip I've been wanting.
This fall when the temps come down I'll clean my egr etc but it's so darn hot out right now I dont even want to wash my truck. It was 117* yesterday.
Thanks in advance for your replies.
John
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From: Under the flightpath of old ORD 22R
John,
When looking at the 2 SuperChip products, you need to ask a few more questions.
1. Do you plan on adding headers, or changing out the MAFS for a larger one ( and the associated Fuel delivery changes ). If you said yes to any of these, the chip is for you. You con't reburn a program on the Tuner for items like these, and need a chip to do it. Even a Supercharger is under this area.
2. Do you have an ODB II code scanner already. For the additional 100.00 to 110.00 you get the code scanner, in case a CEL comes your way in the future. Not a bad full function code scanner for ~ 100.00, where my Actron was 200.00.
3. How comfortable do you feel scraping the coating off the connector on the PCM ? There is a coating that you need to clean off the J3 connector ( think it is called J3 ?? ) to install the chip. If you do not have it 100% clean, you can get no start issues. This can be a somewhat time intensive operation, but can be done correctly if you take your time.
These seem to be the basic questions between the 2 versions of the product.
If #1 is a yes, chip time. If you answered No to #1, #2 and/or #3, then most likely a tuner is for you. The more No answers on this list of questions, is a higher probability that you are a Tuner product canidate.
Good luck, either way, get it done and start enjoying your truck that much more.
Steve
When looking at the 2 SuperChip products, you need to ask a few more questions.
1. Do you plan on adding headers, or changing out the MAFS for a larger one ( and the associated Fuel delivery changes ). If you said yes to any of these, the chip is for you. You con't reburn a program on the Tuner for items like these, and need a chip to do it. Even a Supercharger is under this area.
2. Do you have an ODB II code scanner already. For the additional 100.00 to 110.00 you get the code scanner, in case a CEL comes your way in the future. Not a bad full function code scanner for ~ 100.00, where my Actron was 200.00.
3. How comfortable do you feel scraping the coating off the connector on the PCM ? There is a coating that you need to clean off the J3 connector ( think it is called J3 ?? ) to install the chip. If you do not have it 100% clean, you can get no start issues. This can be a somewhat time intensive operation, but can be done correctly if you take your time.
These seem to be the basic questions between the 2 versions of the product.
If #1 is a yes, chip time. If you answered No to #1, #2 and/or #3, then most likely a tuner is for you. The more No answers on this list of questions, is a higher probability that you are a Tuner product canidate.
Good luck, either way, get it done and start enjoying your truck that much more.
Steve
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From: WISCONSIN
Steve,
1 & 2 are NO
3. Yes
I'm really not interesting in modding the heck outta my 5,000 pound pig at least at this time. If I wanted uber performance I'd be putting the money into my Mustang GT, heh.
I just want to get the best performance I can with the basic mods.
Guess I'll order the microtuner then. I do like the fact that you can restore the program to stock easily with it too. Here in AZ they emissions test thru the ODB II port now. I already passed my first test with flying colors. Guess I'd have to uninstall the microtuner for emissions testing but thats not for another 2 years now, heh.
Thanks for your reply Steve,
John
1 & 2 are NO
3. Yes
I'm really not interesting in modding the heck outta my 5,000 pound pig at least at this time. If I wanted uber performance I'd be putting the money into my Mustang GT, heh.
I just want to get the best performance I can with the basic mods.
Guess I'll order the microtuner then. I do like the fact that you can restore the program to stock easily with it too. Here in AZ they emissions test thru the ODB II port now. I already passed my first test with flying colors. Guess I'd have to uninstall the microtuner for emissions testing but thats not for another 2 years now, heh.
Thanks for your reply Steve,
John
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From: Virginia
Hi John,
The basic issue here really boils down to just 1 thing: are you going to do more involved modifications that will require custom engine tuning? If so, then go the traditional Superchip route, they aren't hard to install, with our documentation that we write just about anyone can properly install it, including even the *women* that work for us here at Troyer Performance/Performance Products, Inc.
Installation isn't an issue in this decision.
The types of modifications you can do and still use the "standard" Superchips performance tuning in the Micro Tuner in these trucks are things like intake kits, cat-back exhaust systems, electric fans, underdrive pulleys & larger throttle bodies.
If you are going to do headers, different MAF, larger injectors, a supercharger, ported cylinder heads, camshaft changes, nitrous, etc., then you'll have to have custom engine tuning, and thus will need to use the traditional Superchip module; and preferably the 2-program Flip Chip, since it's price also includes the cost of any custom tuning needed at time of purchase (with the sole exception of a supercharger, supercharger tuning costs a bit more).
Most people these days just use the Micro Tuner, as they aren't doing the heavier mods.
One thing to take a look at is your *total* power output, to make sure that your factory injectors will support the fuel needs even at full-throttle at redline in 3rd gear on up. The stock 19# injectors in a 4.6 or 5.4 V8 will support about 310 HP comfortably (and that's at the *flywheel*, not at the rear wheels), anything more than 310 HP at the flywheel and you'll need to upsize the injectors and the factory in-tank fuel pump (both of which are easy to do) to avoid fuel starvation, which means custom engine tuning.
Mods like electric fans & underdrive pulleys do not need to enter into your fuel system calculations, by the way, as the motor was already using additional fuel to turn those accessories, but everything else needs to be plotted out. If you like, give us a call & I can go over that with you in proper detail personally, to see if this is going to be an issue in your situaiton.
That info should give you a pretty good picture, & feel free to call us to go over any of this, OK?
The basic issue here really boils down to just 1 thing: are you going to do more involved modifications that will require custom engine tuning? If so, then go the traditional Superchip route, they aren't hard to install, with our documentation that we write just about anyone can properly install it, including even the *women* that work for us here at Troyer Performance/Performance Products, Inc.
Installation isn't an issue in this decision.
The types of modifications you can do and still use the "standard" Superchips performance tuning in the Micro Tuner in these trucks are things like intake kits, cat-back exhaust systems, electric fans, underdrive pulleys & larger throttle bodies.
If you are going to do headers, different MAF, larger injectors, a supercharger, ported cylinder heads, camshaft changes, nitrous, etc., then you'll have to have custom engine tuning, and thus will need to use the traditional Superchip module; and preferably the 2-program Flip Chip, since it's price also includes the cost of any custom tuning needed at time of purchase (with the sole exception of a supercharger, supercharger tuning costs a bit more).
Most people these days just use the Micro Tuner, as they aren't doing the heavier mods.
One thing to take a look at is your *total* power output, to make sure that your factory injectors will support the fuel needs even at full-throttle at redline in 3rd gear on up. The stock 19# injectors in a 4.6 or 5.4 V8 will support about 310 HP comfortably (and that's at the *flywheel*, not at the rear wheels), anything more than 310 HP at the flywheel and you'll need to upsize the injectors and the factory in-tank fuel pump (both of which are easy to do) to avoid fuel starvation, which means custom engine tuning.
Mods like electric fans & underdrive pulleys do not need to enter into your fuel system calculations, by the way, as the motor was already using additional fuel to turn those accessories, but everything else needs to be plotted out. If you like, give us a call & I can go over that with you in proper detail personally, to see if this is going to be an issue in your situaiton.
That info should give you a pretty good picture, & feel free to call us to go over any of this, OK?
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From: WISCONSIN
Hi Mike,
I already put my order in with you. With my limited mods I should be OK. My truck has 54k on it now. I saw on another of your posts that you recommend replacing the upstream O2 sensors by 50K. Guess I need to put that on my to-do list. I'm in the same boat with a lot of other guys who have had pinging. It's a constant battle because I dont like it. We get that crappy California smog gas here in the Phoenix metro area, plus 100*+ days. I know the reformulated gas has it's place to cut down pollution but with our stock trucks tuning and sensors it's just so fussy and it's a source of frustration. I keep my MAF clean and have even gone back to paper filters (for now). I know with my milage I need to clean the EGR ports but at this point it runs fine on 91 octane and I'll wait till fall and cooler temperatures for this shaddy tree mechanic. I have no CELs. I just figure if I'm gonna run 91 octane I may as well get that chip, heh.
John
I already put my order in with you. With my limited mods I should be OK. My truck has 54k on it now. I saw on another of your posts that you recommend replacing the upstream O2 sensors by 50K. Guess I need to put that on my to-do list. I'm in the same boat with a lot of other guys who have had pinging. It's a constant battle because I dont like it. We get that crappy California smog gas here in the Phoenix metro area, plus 100*+ days. I know the reformulated gas has it's place to cut down pollution but with our stock trucks tuning and sensors it's just so fussy and it's a source of frustration. I keep my MAF clean and have even gone back to paper filters (for now). I know with my milage I need to clean the EGR ports but at this point it runs fine on 91 octane and I'll wait till fall and cooler temperatures for this shaddy tree mechanic. I have no CELs. I just figure if I'm gonna run 91 octane I may as well get that chip, heh.
John
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From: Virginia
Hi John,
OK understood, & thanks for your order!
With the mods you currently have listed in your signature the Micro Tuner will be fine. I just wanted to be a bit more detailed about this so you could think about that not just in terms of your *current* modifications, but also in terms of any potential *future* modifications you may be considering, as this go-fast disease is rather progressive.
Yes, replacing the upstream O2's is a good idea at this point since you have just recently passed 50K+ miles, use either the Ford factory units or Bosch O2's, Bosch supplies Ford with their factory O2's.
With regard to fuel quality, sometimes it's not just octane, but it's the actual energy content (# of BTU's per gallon of fuel) that can cause that pinging. This is just another reason why it's important, no matter what state of modification, for everyone to use only the very best quality gasolines, as buying cheaper gas only assures you of getting a lesser fuel, lower energy content, lower quality detergent additives, etc.
Out West, usually Chevron is doing about the best job among the 91 octane premiums, so I'd stick with that.
Good luck & hope you enjoy your Micro Tuner!
OK understood, & thanks for your order!
With the mods you currently have listed in your signature the Micro Tuner will be fine. I just wanted to be a bit more detailed about this so you could think about that not just in terms of your *current* modifications, but also in terms of any potential *future* modifications you may be considering, as this go-fast disease is rather progressive.
Yes, replacing the upstream O2's is a good idea at this point since you have just recently passed 50K+ miles, use either the Ford factory units or Bosch O2's, Bosch supplies Ford with their factory O2's.
With regard to fuel quality, sometimes it's not just octane, but it's the actual energy content (# of BTU's per gallon of fuel) that can cause that pinging. This is just another reason why it's important, no matter what state of modification, for everyone to use only the very best quality gasolines, as buying cheaper gas only assures you of getting a lesser fuel, lower energy content, lower quality detergent additives, etc.
Out West, usually Chevron is doing about the best job among the 91 octane premiums, so I'd stick with that.
Good luck & hope you enjoy your Micro Tuner!
Last edited by Superchips_Distributor; Jul 17, 2003 at 06:30 PM.
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From: WISCONSIN
Got an Email yesterday
Said that my micro tuner had shipped the same day I ordered and included UPS tracking information.
Can't do any better than that!
I'll post when I get it and install.
John
Can't do any better than that!
I'll post when I get it and install.
John
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From: WISCONSIN
Well I've been running my microtuner for 2 years now and I love it!
I get my 91 octane premium at Sam's Club for the same price as regular on the streets. Besides here in the midwest it's only a .10 add to the price for premium.
With prices around $3 I'm still not tempted to give up my power adder, heh
My milage runs anywhere from 15-20 depending on how and where I'm driving it.
I get my 91 octane premium at Sam's Club for the same price as regular on the streets. Besides here in the midwest it's only a .10 add to the price for premium.
With prices around $3 I'm still not tempted to give up my power adder, heh
My milage runs anywhere from 15-20 depending on how and where I'm driving it.
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From: Virginia
Hi hapynzap,
Wow, talk about the resurrection!
Nice to see that you've been enjoying your Micro tuner for the past couple of years, & things are going well, etc.
It's very nice to hear back from someone like that after they've been using a product for a couple of years, etc.
Just a couple of things FYI - If your 1715 was made before September of 2003, then it might be the original type that had 1 tune in it that was made for premium gas only, and was towing-compatible. There is an update available from the manufacturer for those, so you can get 3 programs - 1 for 87 octane, then another that would be the exact same as the original single-tune 1715's (premium gas towing-capable), and then a premium gas *maximum* performance tune that makes more power, and is *not* towing compatible.
Now there is a cost for that upgrade, and it has to be done directly by Superchips Inc for you, by calling them at the number on your documentation. Now this may or may not be worthwhile for you, depending on the cost and your driving needs, etc., but I just thought I'd make you aware of that, just in case you might have the original single-tune type of 1715.
Thanks for dropping back by with your report, great to "see" you again!
Wow, talk about the resurrection!
Nice to see that you've been enjoying your Micro tuner for the past couple of years, & things are going well, etc.
It's very nice to hear back from someone like that after they've been using a product for a couple of years, etc.
Just a couple of things FYI - If your 1715 was made before September of 2003, then it might be the original type that had 1 tune in it that was made for premium gas only, and was towing-compatible. There is an update available from the manufacturer for those, so you can get 3 programs - 1 for 87 octane, then another that would be the exact same as the original single-tune 1715's (premium gas towing-capable), and then a premium gas *maximum* performance tune that makes more power, and is *not* towing compatible.
Now there is a cost for that upgrade, and it has to be done directly by Superchips Inc for you, by calling them at the number on your documentation. Now this may or may not be worthwhile for you, depending on the cost and your driving needs, etc., but I just thought I'd make you aware of that, just in case you might have the original single-tune type of 1715.
Thanks for dropping back by with your report, great to "see" you again!
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From: WISCONSIN
Hi Mike
Yeah my microtuner is the original one programer. It downloads the OEM program and stores it in it's memeory.
I think I'll get in touch with them and get the upgrade since I dont do much towing.
We brought the truck up to Wisconsin in May and I de-tuned it before leaving because I wasnt too sure if Premium would be available and reasonable priced on the 4 day trip from Phoenix. I ended up running premium anyways and wish I had left things alone. We towed at 6x12 u-haul loaded to the gills and it was HEAVY. Towed with no problems. Once we arrived and unloaded I found the tuner and had wifey reprogram it, heh
Yep, I taught my wife how to use the tuner in case I'm not around. It's so easy even she can do it and besides I'd rather watch, heh.
Mr Bro-in-law up here is a big Chevy man and he's impressed that I can burn rubber outta his driveway with a 4.6 Ford.
John
Yeah my microtuner is the original one programer. It downloads the OEM program and stores it in it's memeory.
I think I'll get in touch with them and get the upgrade since I dont do much towing.
We brought the truck up to Wisconsin in May and I de-tuned it before leaving because I wasnt too sure if Premium would be available and reasonable priced on the 4 day trip from Phoenix. I ended up running premium anyways and wish I had left things alone. We towed at 6x12 u-haul loaded to the gills and it was HEAVY. Towed with no problems. Once we arrived and unloaded I found the tuner and had wifey reprogram it, heh
Yep, I taught my wife how to use the tuner in case I'm not around. It's so easy even she can do it and besides I'd rather watch, heh.
Mr Bro-in-law up here is a big Chevy man and he's impressed that I can burn rubber outta his driveway with a 4.6 Ford.
John
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From: Virginia
HI John,
OK, and once you get in touch with them and find out what it will cost to do that upgrade, you might want to touch base with us & see what it will cost to have us do a trade-up deal to get you into our *custom* tuning in the new XCalibrator 2 so you can compare - just FYI.
Good luck & have fun!
OK, and once you get in touch with them and find out what it will cost to do that upgrade, you might want to touch base with us & see what it will cost to have us do a trade-up deal to get you into our *custom* tuning in the new XCalibrator 2 so you can compare - just FYI.
Good luck & have fun!