There seems to be some confusion about "performance chips". Years ago, you actually did replace the chip in the car's computer. Nowadays, you use a re-programmer to change the settings in the chip in the car's computer. As far as changing performance, it does that by optimizing the engine settings to make it run more efficient. More efficiency equals more power. Re-programming the computer is how the factory increases the horsepower rating for "high performace" models of the same vehicle.

Some of the things that are, or can be, changed, is timing, fuel/air mixture, RPM redline, and shift points. All this combines to make your car faster. The reason the factory doesn't do this is that they tune the cars for the "average" driver.

All-in-all, it is a very easy, safe way to increase the performance of your vehicle because it doesn't put added strain on the engine, it just uses what the engine already has in it (although you might tend to push the car harder when you drive it!). And, as you add things that increase the efficiency of the vehicle, such as cold air induction and less restrictive intake systems, free flowing exhaust, bigger injectors, etc., the re-programmer can be adjusted for that. Just keep in mind there are different re-programmers out there, so get the one that fits what you plan on doing to you vehicle and how you plan on driving it.

 

Good points Rchurch,

Programmer vs chip.....

A couple of things cross my mind though.

Could you match or better the program from a well-known chipmaker specifically designed and tested for our cars with the use of a Hypertech programmer? The chip in most cases would be less expensive than a programmer, but one trip to the dealer and an unexpected PCM re-flash and kiss your chip bye bye... Of course most will allow 1 free reprogram should it happen.

Anyone using a chip or a programmer? I would like to see more info on this one...


TVW

 

I don't have my car re-programmed because I am giving it to my son for his 16th birthday in August. I am upgrading the suspension and brakes but not upping the HP. Maybe after he get to be a very good, experienced driver......

Anyway, I did have an Expedition with the 7.3 diesel and used a re-programmer on it. Made a tremendous difference. You could change the programming as many times as you wanted and also re-set it to stock anytime you wanted. They recommended doing that before you brought it in to the dealer (although they also said it would not affect the warranty).

I've never heard of changing the chip AND re-programming, and I'm not familiar enough to know if you can do that. I do know the re-programmers I have seen have different settings to choose from, and are not "unlimited" settings. Some are for stock engines and some require modifications before you re-program the computer. The best thing is to decide how far you are going with the engine, then research the re-programmers and choose the one best suited for you particular needs. In other words, a re-programmer can be used by itslef as a mild modification, or as just one piece of your complete engine combination.

One last thing...I just ordered the braking upgrade package from 3800 Performance. I got the cad platted, cross-drilled rotors, Hawk carbon fiber pads, and braided stainless lines. The parts should be here Friday, and I plan on installing them this weekend. I'll let you know how it goes.

 

Funny story but warning about chips
A guy i know just got his hands on a 2005 f250. well he's always been into enhancing cars and trucks so he decided to put a performance chip on it so he could increase the boost of the turbo. well the idiot spent all day on the internet talking about his truck and how it is now the fastest one around, so when he was called out to prove it he decided to turn the chip all the way to level 6 which he was extremely advised against by the guy who installed the chip and i. putting it to level six told the truck that he was pushing 600-650 pounds of torque, stock. so when he went to race the guy who called him out he boost launched while in 4 wheel drive which if you guessed right blew his transmission and rear end.
here's the kicker he left the chip on when he took it back to the dealership to get it fixed which voided the warranty. for the time being he has a 2005 f250 paper weight.

 

I like Nitrous!!! Especially on my car. I dont have to worry about warrenties, just if i blow the motor, it gives me a reason to rebuild it and make it better!!!! 50hp aint that great. I have a 150 shot and its seems to be ok. Well for now. Ill find out when i hook it up again...