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2021 Tuner Recommendations

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Old Jul 24, 2021 | 12:19 PM
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EMC V10 X's Avatar
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2021 Tuner Recommendations

I have done alot of searching, and the "Go To" STC seems to have been hog tied by the EPA, or maybe not. What is the 2021 6.0 go to tuner and more specifically, tunes available?

I have a Studded, EGR delete, Cat Delete, 4in Exhaust, that I am now ready to actually put tune on now that I have sold my 10k boat that I towed frequently. Now I am looking to Use the truck as a non towing rocket.....

 
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Old Jul 24, 2021 | 09:20 PM
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Tuning is fun, but IMO compromises reliability. Remember Ford has already tuned this engine +75hp. These days EGR delete is an issue. If you re-install the EGR components, link here; https://bulletproofdiesel.com/collec...are-egr-cooler, and want to tune then I would recommend Gearhead, link here; 2003-2007 6.0 Powerstroke Archives - Gearhead Sales (ghtuning.com)
You may also want to consider an Atlas 40 FICM tune at the same time link here; FICM Tuning (ficmrepair.com)
Good luck, Russ
 
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Old Jul 24, 2021 | 10:44 PM
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You will be extremely limited in the tunes you can get with an EGR delete. Most people's experience lately is if you even mention the delete, the tuners out right hang up on you. The EPA has been coming down hard.

Also, with the new smog checks in CA checking your ECM tune against the factory ECM tune. I know only effects CA right now, but that could change at any time.
 
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Old Jul 24, 2021 | 11:48 PM
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Tune, Tune, Tune. Anymore it is getting harder and harder to run one. If you don't mind reflashing every time you have to have an emissions test. And hoping there are no "remnants" of a program lingering in the ECM to alert a test station. ECM's are getting smarter every year and are recording changes to them that are revealed during an emissions test. At what point in the model years for our type of trucks this is occurring I have no clue.

It worries me though. When I had mine flashed to have my 155/stock injectors work properly, I was told the program would not be detectable during an emissions test. I have yet to have a smog test, so I am not sure how accurate that info is. It was done through a very reputable company. So I am praying they are right. I won't know for about six more weeks after I get my engine put back together and have a smog test done as it is WAY over due. B.
 
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Old Jul 25, 2021 | 03:31 PM
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Originally Posted by AK4x4
Tuning is fun, but IMO compromises reliability. Remember Ford has already tuned this engine +75hp. These days EGR delete is an issue. If you re-install the EGR components, link here; https://bulletproofdiesel.com/collec...are-egr-cooler, and want to tune then I would recommend Gearhead, link here; 2003-2007 6.0 Powerstroke Archives - Gearhead Sales (ghtuning.com)
You may also want to consider an Atlas 40 FICM tune at the same time link here; FICM Tuning (ficmrepair.com)
Good luck, Russ
This is good Information, thank you, I am not opposed to replacing the EGR system. I still have my original egr valve plugged in. I understand the Reliability issues involved. This truck has been my dedicated towing (10,000 lbs plus) so I have never wanted to sacrifice the reliability. Now this truck is a spare truck that is only a backup. Over the many years of ownership I have done the full bulletproofing list. Now its time to have a little fun with it. One good thing, I live in the least regulated state in the Union, I am not worried at all about emission tests. Looks like I have some thinking and research to do.

 
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Old Jul 25, 2021 | 08:12 PM
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What you have to look for is an older SCT that has not been updated and is not married to some other VIN number.

I have an older SCT SF3 Power Flash Ford Programmer 3015 and the Gryphon FICM Tuner. That way when I want
to go out and play with how the FICM is performing it is very easy. You can get the Gryphon as a loaner or buy it.
https://www.ficmrepair.com/index.cfm...rod/prd412.htm
 
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Old Jul 26, 2021 | 05:31 PM
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Originally Posted by Yahiko
What you have to look for is an older SCT that has not been updated and is not married to some other VIN number.

I have an older SCT SF3 Power Flash Ford Programmer 3015 and the Gryphon FICM Tuner. That way when I want
to go out and play with how the FICM is performing it is very easy. You can get the Gryphon as a loaner or buy it.
https://www.ficmrepair.com/index.cfm...rod/prd412.htm
I like the FICM tuner Idea, but I am very unfamiliar with how they work or what the long term impacts are. I am going to have to do some research.

I am not keen on buying any used units and that would negate any of the available custom tunes. I do have my original EGR valve plugged in and sitting in the valley, I am seriously considering replacing the EGR .with a new bulletproof version. Back when I did my block off kit, there were not any tested options and I was not educated enough to monitor my OIL and Coolant deltas to keep an eye on the oil cooler (which I can now replace without even looking at the manual).

After the extreme loads and the (Knock on wood) reliability that I have gotten out of this truck after Head Gaskets, studs and the few other upgrades, I am convinced this motor has more potential un loaded.

Say I replace my EGR, What Are the good options for a tuner and tunes that not only tune the engine, but the transmission too?

.
 
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Old Jul 26, 2021 | 05:40 PM
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FICM tune will just do the engine. A PCM tune can adjust the engine, turbo and transmission. At least that's what I understand. B.
 
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Old Jul 26, 2021 | 05:46 PM
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Originally Posted by LindenBruce
FICM tune will just do the engine. A PCM tune can adjust the engine, turbo and transmission. At least that's what I understand. B.
That is my understanding too.

I completely understand how to make this "red headed step child" of a motor run for a long time in stock trim. Now that its been pulled out of working service and paid for itself many times, I might have missed the boat on kick *** 6.0 power upgrades.
 
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Old Jul 26, 2021 | 06:00 PM
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Not necessarily. Power upgrades are not always a good thing. Just have to plan accordingly. Besides you can still catch kickass 1&2 on netflix. LOL. B.
 
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Old Jul 26, 2021 | 08:16 PM
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The Gryphon tuner also has an economy tune.

The thing is your not going to find any new units that can turn off the EGR system.
Any tune writer out there does not want to risk the EPA visit.
 
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Old Jul 28, 2021 | 09:07 PM
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Tuners are 100% hospital tested, clinically proven dangerous to your vehicle's health and reliability.
 
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