Ken,

I tried to order a Diablo Sport chip through Motorhaven, only to be told that my computer code for a 96 Ford Explorer wasn't on file.

The code is FAB2.

I was told that I would have to go to a local Diablo Dealer to get my computer read.

I live in San Jose, California, and there are no Diablo dealers within 200 miles of me.

Any suggestions?

p.s. I went back and checked my code and found that there is a small number in front of the big bold code letters: 1 FAB2. Does this help?

 

The 1 doesn't matter. On the 4 digit code counts. We can do reads here, but that requires that you send us your computer, something we try to avoid except for local customers because occasionally a read isn't good the first time and its a real pain for the customer if they sent their computer only to end up having to send it again.

 

Ken,

Any suggestions?

Does motorhaven have other performance chips that I can use on my Explorer?

I can't send you my computer because I can't have car down even for a day.

 

I would buy the Superchips Max micro tuner.

 

Unfortunately he doesn't have a V8. Superchips has a program for it but we dropped programming Superchips modules and only handle the Microtuners. Call Superchips and they have a system that will locate a dealer via your zip code.

 

Long shot here, and a PIA, but if you could get used computor ( ebay or some thing ), make sure it works. Then send it to Ken, and sell it to some one else when all is said and done.

I know, I know, lots a hassle, but is an option.

 

Apparently I can go with either Superchips or Hypertech.

Can you recommend one or the other?

I need more power for towing. Even though I am well below the maximum weight ratings for my vehicle, the 160 hp engine on a 96 Explorer is a real dog. Even my wife's Odyssey minivan has more power yet it is only rated for 3,500 lbs towing were as my Explorer is rated for 5,000 lbs.

Thanks for the input.

 

towb19...just a suggestion, but what about changing your gear ratio..?

 

My gear ratio is already 3.73 which is considered a towing ratio.

I know that you can go up to 4.1 but this gets very expensive to modify expecially if you have 4 wheel drive, which I do.

Another way to improve is to install smaller tires on the same rims, unfortunately my current tires are pretty new (10,000 miles). I do think that this would be a relatively economical way to improve towing performance.

 

how long since your last tune up?

 

My Explorer is in perfect working condition and is on a severe service schedule. I recently switched to all synthetics (Mobil).

The problem is that the engine is only 160 hp and the transmission is only 3 speed auto plus overdrive which I never use while towing, thus I really only have 3 speeds.

By the way, I did notice a mileage increase with Mobil 1 5w-30 (about 2 mpg).