Question about MicroTuner and Chip

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Jul 28, 2003 | 11:55 PM

Yozho

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From: Orlando, FL

Question about MicroTuner and Chip

NUG here. Searched but couldn't find. May be due to the late hour

I'd like to get a chip for my 2k3 Expedition 4.6L. Actually, I'd like to get a 5.4L for my 2K3 Expi, but we won't go there.

1. If avail for my vehicle, does the Microtuner reprogram the existing ROM? If yes, does it do so by the ECUs diag port I've seen referred to in the FAQ, or does it use the OBD-II port?

2. If a flip switch exists for my vehicle, does it operate via a user installed switch, or can programs be chosen by other means, i.e. button combination on the cruise control stalk?

3. If a chip exists for my vehicle that plugs into the diag port of the ECU, is it recommended to pull this before taking vehicle in for service?

Thanks for the responses or links.

Jul 29, 2003 | 12:08 AM

FTE Ken

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From: Enjoying the real world.

Question about MicroTuner and Chip

Quote:

Originally posted by Yozho
NUG here. Searched but couldn't find. May be due to the late hour

I'd like to get a chip for my 2k3 Expedition 4.6L. Actually, I'd like to get a 5.4L for my 2K3 Expi, but we won't go there.

1. If avail for my vehicle, does the Microtuner reprogram the existing ROM? If yes, does it do so by the ECUs diag port I've seen referred to in the FAQ, or does it use the OBD-II port?

OBD-II port. 2003 support isn't out yet, its due to be released in about a week.

Quote:

2. If a flip switch exists for my vehicle, does it operate via a user installed switch, or can programs be chosen by other means, i.e. button combination on the cruise control stalk?

Need to know your computer code to let you know if we can program a chip for it. It comes with a 5 foot cable with a switch on the end.

Quote:

3. If a chip exists for my vehicle that plugs into the diag port of the ECU, is it recommended to pull this before taking vehicle in for service?

Yes, for two reasons:

1. It will throw a code saying the computer is bad and chip-ignorant techs will tell you that you need to replace the computer. Basically, its a ROM mismatch code.

2. As you may know, some dealers won't touch vehicles with chips or other aftermarket parts. Some are good about it, others aren't. When in doubt, ask your dealer about their practices.

Jul 29, 2003 | 08:16 AM

Yozho

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From: Orlando, FL

Question about MicroTuner and Chip

Thanks for the very fast reply, Ken. So it looks like if I want something that is the least intrusive and inconspicuous I should go with the Microtuner. But the other options avail. from the Supertuner chip to the Diablo give more horsepower, correct?

Also, I'm guessing anything that overwrites the existing (EEP)ROM is undetectable by the dealer?

But the flip switch sounds good too. I take it that the chip plugs into the ecu and the flip switch plugs into the chip?

I have a chip in my existing car (VW) and after seeing the horsepower (+50) and gas mileage gains in it I'm definately in the market for a chip for my new car. And, no, I don't expect the same gains for a straight gasser

I still need to check on the computer code though.

Aug 3, 2003 | 09:19 AM

FTE Ken

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Joined: Jan 1997

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From: Enjoying the real world.

Question about MicroTuner and Chip

Quote:

Originally posted by Yozho
Thanks for the very fast reply, Ken. So it looks like if I want something that is the least intrusive and inconspicuous I should go with the Microtuner. But the other options avail. from the Supertuner chip to the Diablo give more horsepower, correct?

The Diablo gives more horsepower. The Superchips has the user selectable features.

Quote:

Also, I'm guessing anything that overwrites the existing (EEP)ROM is undetectable by the dealer?

While its programmed they can detect it. You can use the programmer to restore the EEPROM to the factory tune before taking it to the dealer.

Quote:

But the flip switch sounds good too. I take it that the chip plugs into the ecu and the flip switch plugs into the chip?

Correct. It comes with a 5 foot cable with a toggle switch on the end.