I have a 2002 F350, 7.3L Diesel I would like to chip or somehow improve power. Does anyone have any suggestions? I am thinking about ordering the Super Chips Microtuner but would like to know if it is safe? Thanks.

 

First welcome to FTE!! Second - I don't know how much you've been reading around here - but there is a little bit of an order to modifications to a PSD.

First you should get the engine ready for more fuel that you will add with a chip or tuner by un-corking the factory intake and exhaust. I'd suggest a 4" turbo-back exhaust and check out the Tymar intakes.

Second you NEED to at least have a pyrometer to watch you Exhaust Gass Temps as they can climb very quickly and do some serious motor damge if run too high for too long. A lot of us have gotten a 3 gauge A-pillar mount and boost, pyro, and trans temp gauges. You can get it as a kit with the mount and the 3 gauges for pretty good deals.

NOW you're ready to change your fueling with either a chip or tuner. I've had both - so I'll tell you what I think. The Superchips tuner really woke up my truck and made a NIGHT and DAY difference in the daily drivability of the rig. I upgraded to a flip chip because I got tired of the "wait to change tunes" ordeal - but if you're gonna pick a setting and leave it there most of the time - a tuner is great and cheaper than most flip chips.

As far as being SAFE?? That is all up to you. It is possible to do damage with either a chip or a tuner - or even a stock truck for that matter - if you don't make wise use of your new power. Basically - you should be fine as long as you don't drive it like you stole it - every day all day. Once you get used to watching the pyrometer - you will know what driving situations make the EGT's go up and when you need to let off the go-pedal a little bit to keeps the temps in check.

Good luck - you'll NEVER be able to go back to a stock truck after driving with it turned up!!

 

Thanks for your reply. This is a dumb question. You mentioned the Superchips tuner and then mentioned you upgraded to a Flip Chip, Are they the same thing? Aslo, I have decided I want a Flip Chip as I will change the power needed occasionally. What Flip Chip do you recommend? Thanks again.

 

There is no such thing as a dumb question!! You've come to the right place for answers!! I learn something new just about every day on this site!!

A flip chip is actually a physical chip that you plug into the diagnostic port on the back of the computer. There is a switch attached to it that you mount somewhere on the dash and at a twist of the switch you can go from your low setting to a smokey high setting.

A tuner plugs into the ODB II port under the dash and changes the parameters of the stock programs. The SCMT has 3 different settings and takes about 5 minutes I'd say to change between them - but you have to stop and shut the truck off to change tunes.

 

Can anyone recommend a good Flip Chip?

 

I just received a Diablo Delta chip that I purchased from MotorHaven.com (they sponsor this BBS). Haven't installed it yet, so can't give you on opinion on performance. I have, however, used the SuperChips MicroTuner & found it most excellent at generating power in my '96 F350DRW

 

Here might be one more dumb question. Is every "Chip" considered a "FLIP CHIP"?

 

US332,

No not all chips are flip chips, I also have a tuner. I have the predator tuner and loveit. These guys are right as to the time involved in changing the tune. Basically the best question for you to answer is what are you using the truck for primarily? Everyday driver, tow truck (TT, fifth wheels, etc.) race truck, fuel efficient powerhouse? Answer this question and we can better give you a route to go. But first and for most get the gauges see how she runs stock and the numbers you are getting. Then get a better air intake probably the tymar is the most cost effective, and get a bigger exhaust. See what numbers these mods produce and then go with the tuner of chip. Then hang on cause these guys here will have you spending all kinds of time and money making your truck into whatever you want and need.

Fire Rooster

 

See now I'M getting confused!

You can get chips in the 1 program up to 4 program variety. A plain chip (without the flip ) is just that - when you put it into the computer - that's the tune you got until you take it out. I have a 4 position flip chip with stock, 50, 75, and 125 horsepower tunes. As far as a brand of chip - everyone has a favorite brand and we will probably all give a different reccomendation. I think you need to decide what you are looking for in a chip, or tuner for that matter, and then do some research too. I spent a LONG time in front of my computer before I decided on my chip. Here's a few to check out off the top of my head......


www.atsturbo.com
www.dieselinnovations.com
http://www.shopdiesel.com/index.cfm/action/home.htm

there's just SO MANY out there to choose from! Good luck!