I have been in contact with another member of this forum about purchasing his Hypertech programmer. Same exact car, 2004 Monte Carlo SS L36 (non supercharged). He is selling the hypertech 30030 for 155 shipped. My question to everyone that reads this, what is your opinion on the hypertech programmer? Pros, cons, your experiences, anything will help. Is it worth the money or is it a risky move being that people have had problems with them? Also, he said he deprogrammed his car, meaning it is already unlocked ad ready to go. Please, your opinions and reviews will be greatly appreciated!!

Mods:
180 thermostat
K & N CAI
Future DP and Cat back system

 

I have used one for a year or so, works to change speed limiter,fuel grade,
transmission shift points or firmness never had any type problem
it is not for the go fast tune, if i did not already have i would buy a tuner instead, tuner is the correct way hands down there are on some forums as low as $250 to $ 350

 

So then you have noticed a nice difference though as in the shift firmness, the fan turn on, and stuff like that? I mean I am getting it for 145 so is that something you would do? What tweaks did you set to it such as like transmission firmness and rev limiter and shift points? Just looking for ideas. Thanks

 

Another question for you guys too. If it were your decision, would you go with the ZZP downpipe with cat for $184 or would you get the programmer for 145? Which is going to offer a better HP gain? I really want the shifting firmness but I need to be safe with my decision too. What would you guys do?

 

IMHO I would get the 304 stainless version of the downpipe, so when you decide to go with more exhaust work your flanges don't get really nasty, and everything will hold up nicely.

And I would probably just get a canned-PCM or find someone to do the custom tune either is $100 or less.

 

x2.
You'd notice a much bigger gain getting a downpipe and a custom tune.

-Riggs.

 

awesome, thanks guys. I actually just found out there is a guy who does custom tuning like 5 miles from my house and he is certified and recommended by ZZP. Im gonna end up getting the exhaust then the tune probably

 

I'm not a big fan of the hypertech's either. For the price of them new, I'd get a used tuner. Even for $150, I'd still probably rather get a canned tune from a major vendor who specializes in 3800s.

 

are you going to do anymore of the traditional bolt-on L36 mods?

for example:
Front Powerlog
ER Ratio Rockers
HV3 insert???

if yes, hold off on the tune and get those first
No sense getting a tune, and then having to get another.

 

Yeah thats a good point! I didnt even think about the rockers, and I have the HV3 saved in my favorites but wasnt sure if I wanted to or not. Dumb question though, I have been wondering what the powerlog was, mind giving me a little of your knowlege? lol