About one month ago, when I finished installing my summer mods (headers and pulley drop), I felt my car was not working to its full potential, that it could go faster than it was. It felt kind of choppy, and the gas mileage was not so good, even on the highway. I decided to test it at the drag strip...even though my reaction time was ordinary, I only managed to get 15.33 @ 91 mph. Many people told me I should be able to achieve high 13s low 14s, and therefore was disappointed. I asked around the forums and it was clear I needed a re-tune so the computer would properly incorporate the latest modifications I made. I also figured out my car could have knock retard issues and the fuel trims could be off.
Since I already ordered an off-the-shelf tune from Overkill Motorsports, and was very satisfied with the results, I decided to give it another go. Dyno tuning was also an option at this time but Will, founder of Overkill, told me on the forums to pass by for a custom street tune at his house east of Toronto. Basically, street tuning reproduces the parameters of real driving conditions and is therefore more efficient than dyno tuning. We then set a date for us to meet, communication was great.
After 6 hours of driving (I live in the Montreal area), I finally arrived at Will's house. He came out with his laptop and a wideband sensor he sticked in the muffler. We reviewed the modifications I made to my car and fully explained the process the car would undergo. After the program was downloaded to my PCM, we went for a couple of short rides, highway and regular streets. Will reviewed the parameters each time, keeping track of knock, adjusting fuel trims and changing transmission shift times. It took a total of two hours. Each review was explained to me in details.
After everything was done, I had a couple more questions, he took the time to answer all of them. He also gave me some advice about my cold air intake setup since the IAT number was high.
On my way back, I could feel that my car was way smoother than it was. The transmission times were just perfect and the throttle response was immediate. I could really feel the power increase. In addition, mileage was greatly increased. The tuning and the ride back to Toronto took only 3/4 of a tank...go figure.
In the end, the ride was well worth it, the cost of the street tuning was only 100$ (2 hours) since I already had the Overkill tune. Will is a really nice guy and a passionate man, he enjoys his job and makes the street tuning experience one not to pass by when thinking car performance.
Once again, big thanks to Will, for his time and for his knowledge. He also figured out a way to unlock the 2006+ PCM so you guys so also give it a try!
No more questions, no more worries, just enjoy the full potential of your 3800, Get Overkilled.
Originally Posted by darkhorizon
