AbsoluteGMC
08-13-2004, 10:59 AM
Well I'm sure that everyone here has heard this before but I thought that I would post it for any of the new guys that might be looking for some quick info.
Just as most guys do we all want more power with no decrease in durability... well forget about that. When power goes up so does stress on components and when the stress that these components are subject to goes up the duability goes down. Ever see a 50,000 mile race car?
Although there are many different brands on the market and just as many opinions when it comes to increasing power with the use of aftermarket computer engine control here are a few things that one should consider:
1) Does the chip increase EGT?
Reason: This has a inverse effect on turbo and piston life. The higher the tempature the shorter the life. I know of at lease one diesel tuner that has managed to lower the EGT a little bit or so the guy who did the programing claims.
2) How much power do you want and how will it be used?
Reason: While a 100 hp gain used for driving around town and driving down the highway at posted speeds and normal accelleration most likely will not cause any tranny damage, A 100 hp gain used to tow 10000 lbs frequently or up and down hills at 65 mph will cause tranny and other components to wear or break. Therefore power should be limited if towing is to be done. Most Manufacturers say that a 50 hp gain give or take should the max while doing any towing.
3) Does the manfacturer suggest other accessories like EGT/ boost gauges or 4" exhaust systems?
Reason: These accessories help the driver maintain lower temps and give feedback as to the conditions of the drivetrain that have the most effect on wear and durability.
4) The only way that mpg will increase is if you drive like a sunday driver.
Fact: When you have more power and push the peddle down you burn more fuel. Cruising down the highway at 65 mph on cruise control might shown a little gain but don't worry, if you can afford a 40k + truck you should be able to afford the fuel that goes in it. This is also the reason why companies say "mpg may increase depending on the driver!"
This is not a plug for any one chip but just some things that I learned while on the holy search for the best chip for me and my truck.
Please feel free to add to the list of things to consider if I missed something.
Later,
AbsoluteGMCEdited by: AbsoluteGMC
Just as most guys do we all want more power with no decrease in durability... well forget about that. When power goes up so does stress on components and when the stress that these components are subject to goes up the duability goes down. Ever see a 50,000 mile race car?
Although there are many different brands on the market and just as many opinions when it comes to increasing power with the use of aftermarket computer engine control here are a few things that one should consider:
1) Does the chip increase EGT?
Reason: This has a inverse effect on turbo and piston life. The higher the tempature the shorter the life. I know of at lease one diesel tuner that has managed to lower the EGT a little bit or so the guy who did the programing claims.
2) How much power do you want and how will it be used?
Reason: While a 100 hp gain used for driving around town and driving down the highway at posted speeds and normal accelleration most likely will not cause any tranny damage, A 100 hp gain used to tow 10000 lbs frequently or up and down hills at 65 mph will cause tranny and other components to wear or break. Therefore power should be limited if towing is to be done. Most Manufacturers say that a 50 hp gain give or take should the max while doing any towing.
3) Does the manfacturer suggest other accessories like EGT/ boost gauges or 4" exhaust systems?
Reason: These accessories help the driver maintain lower temps and give feedback as to the conditions of the drivetrain that have the most effect on wear and durability.
4) The only way that mpg will increase is if you drive like a sunday driver.
Fact: When you have more power and push the peddle down you burn more fuel. Cruising down the highway at 65 mph on cruise control might shown a little gain but don't worry, if you can afford a 40k + truck you should be able to afford the fuel that goes in it. This is also the reason why companies say "mpg may increase depending on the driver!"
This is not a plug for any one chip but just some things that I learned while on the holy search for the best chip for me and my truck.
Please feel free to add to the list of things to consider if I missed something.
Later,
AbsoluteGMCEdited by: AbsoluteGMC