Probably an ignorant question, but what is the difference between a tuner and a chip? I know that chips are specific and "burned" and tuners are adjustable, but aren't some chips "flippable" and doesn't the TS chip have 6 "positions"?

A follow up (objective, generic, non-brand related please) question: What are the pros and cons of each? Not looking for any pissing contests or brand wars, just a "tuners are better for this because ..." and "chips are better for that because...."

Thanks. Trying to decide if I want a chip or tuner; then I'll decide whose.

 

Here's my take on the subject:
1) Yes, chips are specific and burned to one set of tune parameters but can have up to 6 flashes on one chip that can be changed with a simple multiposition switch.
2) A tuner allows u to program parameters ,use standard tune files,custom tune files, read fault codes and perform datalogging.

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There are chips that you can buy with just one program(hp setting) on it, 4 , or 6.
Tuners are better as far as like what PSNut said (personal diagnostic tool and tune the truck to your own specifications)
Chips will give you more hp/tq so it just depends on what you want. They are a set program, but its easy to flip that switch and go into 4 different worlds

 

Actually,correct me if i'm wrong here, a tuner can download the same flash files as a chip making it the same in that respect. When u get a flip chip your gettting a chip with multiple files on it ready to be used by a quick switch.
With the tuner u can store multiple files but have to download to change.
I believe all the different tuners out there come with their own programed files for each vehicle and are a little more of a guess-timate on all parameters and
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The "standard" tuners are a cookie cutter type application, a one size fits all if you will.

A custom burned chip can be programed to your specific truck and mods if thats what you want.

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I plan on getting a VAG-COM for diagnosing VWs (including diesels). Does anyone know if this will work on the Powerstroke (is it ODBII based) as well? If so, I wouldn't benefit from the TS diagnostic capability and then perhaps the chip would be the direction for me to go.

 

I have a 6 position chip that can be reburned to a few different settings. The local parts place I got mine from can downlaod stuff and burn it right on the spot while I wait. Mine is set up with 1) vallet (sp?) won't go over 70 mph. Actaully kind of useless, would be better if it could be set at 55-60 but they can only do the 70 mph setting. 2) High idle 1,200 rpm's 3) stock 4) 50 hp 5) 75 hp 6) 100 hp

I always leave it on 50 hp unless I wanna race or make a lot of smoke then I set it to 100 hp. The only other option I really use is the high idle.

I think you can get the options burned in any position on the switch and they might have more options also.

 

i never heard of acostom burned chip till the day after i ordered my bully dog 4 pos still very happy with it 1= 50 hp 2= 80 hp 3= 120 hp 4= 150. i pull in 50 exclusivly . for some reason i get better milage on the 120 hp setting truck seems to run smoother there too my truck needs hp . he he he. the 150 is definatly extreme my hpop or fuel pump has a hard time keeping up wow is it fast. stillwish i had gotten one of mr tiptons . if you decide to get a chip i'l sell you mine for a good price. if you need big hp get one from mr tipton.

 

I've had both a tuner and now a chip. I think a chip will always out perform a tuner. I like my chip a lot more than the tuner. I use the tuner for checking codes.

 

I Second The Post Made By Dvsing (from The Post Above).
My Comments And Experience With The Chip And Tuner Are The Same As His.
I Would Say That You Would Be Pleased With A Tuner But Only Untill You Try A Chip....... Then You'll Want The Chip !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Power Wise The Chip Will Beat The Tuner .... Hands Down ...no Doubt About It.

 

Well, looks like chip it is. Does anyone know if the diagnostics on a 99 PSD is ODBII compliant? Can I use a VAG-COM or ODBII analyzer? If not, a tuner might be more valuable.

 

OK, answered my own Q. The VAG-COM is for ISO networks, Ford is PWM. Apparently just every manufacturers uses ISO, except Ford and GM. Guess I'll have to investigate other OBD2 tools now (still think I want to go the chip route).

 

A generic OBDII code reader will not read vehicle specific codes on a PSD.

 

I was looking at Autoenginuity; they have 7.3 PSD powertrain support. I imagine there are others that have modules/support as well, I just need to start some research.

 

The AE diagnostic software is a great tool for the Powerstroke.
Get the enhanced version if you are considering the AE.