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Tuners comparison?

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Old Mar 23, 2015 | 02:17 PM
  #1  
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From: Blairsville, Pennsylvania
Tuners comparison?

Just looking for Stage I stuff, AIS, 4" MBRP, VB, that kind of stuff.

Looking to add gauges and maybe TorquePro.

I need some help on tuners and the differences.

1. I want to switch programs on the fly (while running? Stop and change, then drive off? Not sure of the options here).

2. Looking for economy, power, and tow modes. Maybe variants of light, mild, heavy, etc

3. SCT X4 has a OBD monitor, but isn't really for full-time use? Maybe.

4. Hydra seems best download and store tunes and the Hex code option for more programs, but is one of least "exciting" looking installations with a 1978 LED out of an electronics science kit.

5. Budget around $500 or less with tunes.

I can mount tablet with TorquePro, or use one of the nice looking SCT-style monitors.

I read one of the differences between different types of tuners- chips vs programmers- is switching on the fly vs reprogramming. Not sure I got all the differences and which tuners support which.

Can someone shed some light here? Seems like the more I read, the more I lose track of which has what

Thanks.
 
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Old Mar 24, 2015 | 07:03 AM
  #2  
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A good start is the "custom tunes" link in my signature - you may want to click that.

The Hydra is the flavor of the year, you have a lot of tuning options with that - even with the 7-segment LED. If the display really challenges your chi, there is a Bluetooth option to switch the tunes. I haven't delved into this option, so it will require a little research to see if it fits your needs.

When you say Stage 1 injectors, I assume you mean IH AC160 single-shot injectors with stock nozzles. In regards to injector choice (reman vs. new), the 160/100 injector link in my signature is very helpful.

As for budget - gauges, getting the truck to 100%, and prepping the truck for more power before chipping will likely send you limping to your lender.



 
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Old Mar 24, 2015 | 09:00 AM
  #3  
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I've been through your Chip Chasers thread a couple of times. Good stuff. It made a lot of sense.

Most of my budget is pre-tuner stuff. By Stage I injectors, I meant stock injectors with only Stage I, mostly bolt-on mods- pretty mild stuff. Looking for performance + longevity and reliability as the primary goals.

The Hydra is likely where I'm headed. Shame they don't have a monitor/control screen option like some of the others. Even a better multiline LCD display that allowed you to name your tunes would be an improvement over a windshield mounted clipboard for the Program number to Tune name legend. LOL.

After I get it, I may actually make one of these. Does anyone know the interface specs for the Hydra tune selector?

Thanks again for the input. I have read quite a few of your posts and threads. Good topics and discussions, quite helpful. Keep it up!
 
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