Reflashing ECM and TCM

[87Skier]

Does anyone have recommendations for shops that reprogram the ECM and TCM for Gen IV engines and 6 speed automatics?

I've talked to a few shops but their responses to a few simple questions made me rethink sending my stuff to them.

Looking to keep the engine pretty much the way it is. The only modification is that I won't be running catalytic converters since it is emission exempt.

Also want to change a few things about the 6L80/90 transmission.


Thanks

[Hart_Rod]

I would talk to Speartech. But why not just buy HPTuners or similar software and do it yourself?

[davepl]

I did my own with HPTuners, changed the reluctor count from auto to manual, that sort of thing. If you want a whole VE table tune you'll need a tuner, but I don't know if you need that for removing the CATs (I'd keep the cats personally but that's another story).

If it's just to disable the codes, I'm pretty sure you can do that with HPTuners as well.

[87Skier]

Originally Posted by Hart_Rod

I would talk to Speartech. But why not just buy HPTuners or similar software and do it yourself?

I was going to contact them, but Speartech's website didn't mention ecu tuning, only harness related stuff.

I considered doing it myself, but thought it would cost about half as much to have someone else do it. If I were going to do it myself, what would I need? Clearly the software (HPTuners?), a laptop (have one), and something to connect to the computer?

Originally Posted by davepl

I did my own with HPTuners, changed the reluctor count from auto to manual, that sort of thing. If you want a whole VE table tune you'll need a tuner, but I don't know if you need that for removing the CATs (I'd keep the cats personally but that's another story).

If it's just to disable the codes, I'm pretty sure you can do that with HPTuners as well.

I would keep the catalytic converters, but they are massive, and clearances are tight. I have to try to fit everything in the frame, while going from a turbo350 to 6L90 with a front driveshaft, transfer case, and cross members. If this were 2wd, I would probably run them.

[Hart_Rod]

Originally Posted by 87Skier

I was going to contact them, but Speartech's website didn't mention ecu tuning, only harness related stuff.

I considered doing it myself, but thought it would cost about half as much to have someone else do it. If I were going to do it myself, what would I need? Clearly the software (HPTuners?), a laptop (have one), and something to connect to the computer?

When you buy HPTuners (or EFLIVE for that matter), they come with everything you need, software, connection for the OBDII port as well as 8 credits for tunes. I would recommend getting the Pro-version as it gives you the ability to datalog without your laptop if you so choose.

[davepl]

Originally Posted by 87Skier

I would keep the catalytic converters, but they are massive, and clearances are tight. I have to try to fit everything in the frame, while going from a turbo350 to 6L90 with a front driveshaft, transfer case, and cross members. If this were 2wd, I would probably run them.

Ah, I see. I just like the reduced fuel smell, and slightly quieter running. But if you've got physical fitment constraints, I get it!

[jweb]

If you want something local there's a guy in Keizer I had tune my truck. I think he only does dyno tunes, but really knows what he's doing.

Let me know, I can pm you his info.

[BR3W CITY]

Originally Posted by Hart_Rod

When you buy HPTuners (or EFLIVE for that matter), they come with everything you need, software, connection for the OBDII port as well as 8 credits for tunes. I would recommend getting the Pro-version as it gives you the ability to datalog without your laptop if you so choose.

You can upgrade to pro by sending the dongle in and paying a service fee. Its actually not crazy expensive, and saves your from having to buy a whole different unit if you realize that you outgrow the base function.

[87Skier]

Originally Posted by jweb

If you want something local there's a guy in Keizer I had tune my truck. I think he only does dyno tunes, but really knows what he's doing.

Let me know, I can pm you his info.

Never hurts to have some local people. Please PM his info. Thanks!


I'm still not sold on buying the tuning stuff for myself. I like the idea of owning it, but it seems expensive. I might end up going for it, but would really like to hold the unit for myself.

[Trackman101]

Purchasing HP Tuners PRO is the way to go. You can have anyone in the country remote tune it if the learning curve is to steep to do it yourself. It is for me.

[izzy_Britton]

not exactly local but there is an outfit in Sparks that does dyno tune and reprogram work from stock to extreme. they are the place i intend to take my truck when it is back together. If your interested i will look up the name of the place when i am at home.

-Izzy

[izzy_Britton]

Originally Posted by Trackman101

Purchasing HP Tuners PRO is the way to go. You can have anyone in the country remote tune it if the learning curve is to steep to do it yourself. It is for me.

SAY WHAT? I have never heard of this. I am going to seriously look into and consider doing this.

still taking my 75 C10 to the dyno tune guys over in Sparks. but i do have many irons in the fire..

-Izzy

[BR3W CITY]

? I'm not sure what he means by that. You can't remote dial into ECM's like Haltech can.
You can have someone else write a tune for you based on log results (I do that all the time), but both people would need to have that VIN licensed. You need the license to write TO a Tune, or to flash the tune itself. You DON'T need it licensed just to read.

[izzy_Britton]

supose you COULD do a remote desktop or VNC connection but that seems kinda like a waste of time.