Question about Chips, Programs, etal - Page 3 - Montana Owners Club

richfaa · 02-11-2008, 01:20 PM

The search for the truth is just that.If one asks enough questions, searches out experts on the subject. Is objective enough to read and learn from both side of the issue no matter what the issue . The facts and the truth will will emerge.Personally I have no idea what the truth is on the chip issue and really do not care because I have made my choice. However I am forever learning and one day I will learn the truth. By the way the truth is due to the collective knowledge of many people and many sources.

SlickWillie · 02-12-2008, 12:16 AM

Here is some good discussion on the latest generation of Duramax engines. Seems GM is addressing the programmer issue. I'll be interested to see if they figure a way to detect the plug in modules such as Edge.

Waynem · 02-12-2008, 10:52 AM

what about the next person who is going to build a chip that flashes the original parameters back into the ECM.

Yes, I would like a few more miles per gallon, but I'm not sure it is worth the headachs.

If what the report says is true, then there is risk of hurting your entgine by re-chipping it. I have all the power I need in my 2005 F350 - now if fuel prices would drop, a couple miles per gallon would not even be missed. (Fuel prices drop - not soon I'm afraid)

rickfox · 05-05-2008, 06:13 AM

Don't forget that Banks (for example) also offers products such as free flow exhaust and improved air intake systems. According to a Banks rep, installing these on the LB7 (2001 - 2004 Chevy) will add 60 hp/100ft-lbs torque and up to 2 mpg. This is with no changes to tuning/programming. And according to them, there are no warranty issues. Price is in the $900 to $1000 range. I could sure use that extra 60 hp which would get me into the range of the newer Chevy engines.

I'm leaning that way, along with an exhaust brake. My LB7 engine had some difficulty pulling up the 7% grades in our recent trip to the Grand Canyon, and the Allison tranny in tow mode down those 7% grades proved to be quite a white-knuckle ride. More hp and more braking just has to be a safer way to go for me!

gunner · 05-05-2008, 06:59 AM

Glenn, you sure have pushed some 'hot' buttons on this one!!

ols1932 · 05-05-2008, 07:09 AM

As you can see, I'm a Ford person (not that I couldn't change) but I believe that chipping the Duramax is a waste. That engine and its setup is such that it doesn't need any extra help. Ford and Dodge, maybe, but not the Duramax. How's that coming from a Ford person?

Orv

Thunderman · 10-30-2008, 11:30 AM

Well I was able to buy a Hypertek programmer for my 7.3 powerstroke for less than half price. That is about the only way I would buy one.
My son has a Duramax and it has plenty of power, the programmer is not really needed.
The 7.3 amazed me as to the additional power it has with the programmer utilized. It has 3 settings with 3 being max. I think I am going to set mine at 2 and leave it there. Hopefully if I drive correctly I won't hurt the truck.

Weldon

PowellsMonty · 10-30-2008, 12:47 PM

Opinions and logic are like "ear lobes", everyone has one. When you have an engine or tranny failure that is covered, and you are chipped or done anything to the truck that isn't factory spec, they can and most likely will, deny the claim. I have been there. Won't go there again until I am out of warranty. But I am not of weath that can afford to throw $5-$15 gee whizzers down the tubes.

Thunderman · 10-30-2008, 03:06 PM

I am out of warranty....anyone with experience towing with a Hypertek programmer?

Thanks!

PowellsMonty · 10-31-2008, 06:45 AM

I did have one for my old truck. I thought they recommended a setting for towing in the instruction book. I think it was the middle one but can't be sure. They do work well as far as increased power is concerned, forget if it made any difference in millage. As is apparent I forget a lot!

Thunderman · 10-31-2008, 06:57 AM

Mike,
The instructions and their web address state you can tow in any of the three settings without adverse problems with the tranny, AS LONG as you don't exceed the tow limit of the truck. I am of the opinion stage 2 would be best also.
Thanks!

TLightning · 10-31-2008, 08:58 AM

Quote:

quote:Originally posted by Thunderman

Mike,
The instructions and their web address state you can tow in any of the three settings without adverse problems with the tranny, AS LONG as you don't exceed the tow limit of the truck. I am of the opinion stage 2 would be best also.
Thanks!

Understand the manufacturer of the add on says it's okay to use it, they have a vested interest in saying that...what about Ford?

PowellsMonty · 10-31-2008, 12:37 PM

Ford says that if you use it, they will not stand behind any warranty or assist in any fashion. That is why I sold mine and won't buy another.

rving2us · 11-04-2008, 04:10 PM

My power is a 2003 2500 Dodge 4X4 with a Cummins Turbo Diesel and a Flashpaq super chip. My towing MPG on our last trip was 13.7 mpg. You guys are right it is a personal choice and it may cause damage if mistreated. My truck has been chipped for two years and everything runs great. I am an old guy and drive relatively normal but when I go nuts the truck goes nuts with me. Great stuff, thanks.

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