I've asked this question a few times...on this forum as well as the PHP forum and have yet to receive a straight answer. What mods require custom tunes? Right now, I only have a K&N drop-in, Maggie Catback exhaust, and slightly larger tires. Through my research, I think the Edge Evo is the best option for me...for now. If I decide to run a CAI down the road....will I wish I had a Gryphon vs. the Edge? Better yet...why does anyone run and Edge if it can't be upgraded with custom tunes? You'd think most people would just run Gryphon on a canned setting and then upgrade if necessary.

Any help is appreciated. Thanks in advance.

 

Your current modifications do not require a custom tune but to quote a VERY famous moderator:

Q: All right, are these tunes the "custom" tunes I've been reading about?

A: Not quite. They can be called "canned", or "generic" tunes. They're better than "stock", but they still target a fairly wide audience. For instance, the F150 is rated to tow trailers ranging from a little homemade "brush hauler" up to something approaching 10,000 pounds. A single tow tune can not possibly work equally well for all towing needs, even though it does better than "stock". Similarly, if you've added aftermarket modifications like long tube headers and a cold air intake, the canned "performance" tune won't be right for you, since it was written for a "stock" vehicle. Even things like where you live have an influence. Vehicle operation at 8,000 ft requires a different strategy than what is needed at sea level and someone operating a truck in Canada is going to appreciate a different tune than someone living in the Arizona desert. Even if you don't have mods and don't tow, your needs are different if you are an in-town driver compared to a highway driver. To get the best out of your truck, you need tunes customized for the way you drive and your specific driving needs.


Q: I'm still not sure I understand, can you explain the differences between these tunes again?

A: This is a comparison that many people have used. It may help. Pretend you need a new suit to impress your girlfriend.
1. Stock tune: You go to a department store and buy a suit of clothes (ready to wear). Your girlfriend yawns.
2. Canned tunes: You have the suit you bought tailored at one of the combination cleaner/tailoring places, so that it fits you like a glove. Your girlfriend tells you she likes the way you look and seems really happy to be with you.
3. Custom tunes: You pay to have a big name designer create a suit of clothes for you out of fabrics fit for a king. You ditch your girlfriend and accompany a Hollywood starlet to the Academy Awards.

https://www.f150online.com/forums/ch...unes-read.html

In other words, I would go with a Gryphon now. Just sayin'...

 

I read the sticky but did seem to forget the reference to the CAI, so thank you for that. I was thinking the same about the Gryphon; however, most I have talked to with Gryphons and custom tunes have noticed very little mpg imrovement. Conversely, those with Evo's HAVE noticed better economy.

How many custom tunes are there to choose from. I've had some recommend the 87 Performance tune but was told not to expect any better economy. Not sure if that is what I want, although I DO want better performance as well. Decisions decisions.

Thanks for the response. Much appreciated.

 

If you are going to get better gas mileage from a programmer/tuner, then custom tunes are your best chance/choice.

I really believe the amount of MPG improvement is directly related to how 1) how well you actually tracked your MPG and 2) how you drove your truck BEFORE you got the tuner. If you don't have detailed records, how can you prove/disprove the MPG gain?

What both the Gryphon and Edge have to help is the IECON (instant economy) PID. I wonder if MPG improves just people are keeping an eye on IECON and adjusting the GO FOOT to maximize IECON?

There are really six basic custom tunes to choose from:

1. 87 tranny only (changes shift points, lock-up points, lock up delay, and line pressure)
2. 87 towing for loads over 2500 lbs
3. 87 performance (maximum go fast RIGHT NOW!)
4-6. 91+ versions of 1-3

For MPG improvement, you can tell Bill that you want an 87 performance with an emphasis on economy. Keep in mind it takes GAS to make HP. There ain't no such thing as a free lunch!

Head over to PHP's forums, register, and read the Gryphon and model year threads.

IIRC, Jack said he saw approx. a 1.5-2 MPG increase with his 87 performance/econ tune.

 

Good info...thank you.