I just heard about the Micro Tuner for the first time when I did an article search for superchips. Is this still the best way to increase HP and decrease MPG? Also, I notice that there are several programs that can be used. Some are advertised as better when towing, and some are never to be used that way. The following program descriptions came from the Troyer web site:

1.) 70 HP & 150 lbs./ft. of torque, safe for towing weights all the way up to the factory towing limit, & no other modifications are required.

2.) 90 HP & 175+ lbs/ft. of torque - towing capacity reduced to approximately 6000 lbs. We advise using an EGT gauge/pyrometer (Exhaust Gas Temperature) when towing 5000 lbs. or more on this program.

Can I choose my program based on how I'm currently using the truck? (i.e. Can I use option 1 when I'm towing a 7,500 lb. trailer and then switch back to option 2 when I'm done?) Thanks in advance.

 

Hi Cliff,

Just FYI on the subject of MPG & our tuning for those Powerstroke diesels - - The MPG generally increases (not decreases) when towing with the Superchips tuning. When not towing, the MPG usually stays the same, unless you are on the highway at speeds of say, 70 mph or higher - then, even unloaded, the MPG goes up. In other words, the MPG goes up in those PSD's with the Superchips tuning *only* when the motor is under a load, just the opposite of gasoline engines. So you will usually see 2-3 more mpg when towing using the Superchips tuning as compared to the MPG on the factory program when towing. Another example is say, take an F-350 dually, and drive it at 80 mph unloaded on the Interstate - the MPG comes up by about 4 to as much as 5 MPG, a huge gain. But cruise around town empty, and you won't see any MPG gain at all. Just FYI...

Yes, the whole idea is for you to choose your program based on how you are using your truck - exactly as you said, you load up whatever program is appropriate for how you are going to be using the vehicle.

Many people run around on the +70 HP towing program all the time if they are towing heavy loads frequently (say, every week, etc.), as it's already a large power gain, and that's when you get the best MPG is on the +70 HP tune, and you don't even have to change it when you hook up to a big load.

Then there are those who will do just the opposite, running around on the huge gains of the +110 Hp program - until they need to tow something, when they drop back to the +70 HP program and go tow the planet.

So yes, you can do exactly what you stated - that's the whole idea of having multiple tunes, so you can use whatever tune is required for how you use the vehicle at any given time.

Give us a call for any details & questions if you like, our number is listed just below & best of luck with your truck!

 

I slipped. I actually meant to say increase in MPG. Thanks for pointing that out, and thanks for the reply. Sounds like a great product for me. I do a lot of highway driving during the week and to on the weekends.

 

Sure, no problem!

Enjoy your weekend, & feel free to call us when you're ready to take the plunge - calling us gets you your best price as a registered member of F-150 Online, we can offer a special discount on the "MAX" series Micro Tuners (1705, 1714, 1715) when people cal us with their F-150 Online screen name - just a quick FYI tip.

Have fun,