When do you need an aftermarket computer?

[Firebat]

I know having a LT1 that goes over 7000RPM is one reason to have an aftermarket computer. What are the other limiting factors to why you would absolutely need one in N/A? I want to build a bigger N/A motor for mostly street use and kind of want to keep it simple by keeping the stock computer. Even though my future build may not have high enough power to absolutely need one but I am wondering at what point you need to start really considering an aftermarket unit.

[z28rob18]

id love to know this answer. and want to know wat computer everyone uses

[mpe331lx]

Boost. When running a pretty good amout of boost (probably above 14), the LT1's are a PAIN to tune properly.

N/A or spray below 7K rpm and your good to go.

[Fastbird]

Boost. When running a pretty good amout of boost (probably above 14), the LT1's are a PAIN to tune properly.

N/A or spray below 7K rpm and your good to go.

Bingo.

Another good option now seems to be that LS1 computer conversion that was posted recently.

[Fire67]

The LS1 computer conversion cost is right up there with standalone's.

mpe331lx is spot on though... Only thing I might add is that they are a pain to tune as soon as airflow maxes out the MAF (8-10psi). At which point you are stuck with using PE tables (Power Enrichment, an amount of fuel added dependent on rpm).

However doable, its not accurate and you will run the risk of engine damage.

[mpe331lx]

The LS1 computer conversion cost is right up there with standalone's.

.

Yes and no. If you buy everything new with a complete harness, yes it will be costly. But if you purchase the basic kit, a used ls1 PCM and coils, do the DIY wiring harness mod kit, you can have it all together for a bit less then half of a stand alone setup.:metal:

When the time comes to replace the stock bottom end in stephs car with the 383, we'll be going with the EFIconnection ls1 pcm conversion for sure.

[Fastbird]

Yes and no. If you buy everything new with a complete harness, yes it will be costly. But if you purchase the basic kit, a used ls1 PCM and coils, do the DIY wiring harness mod kit, you can have it all together for a bit less then half of a stand alone setup.:metal:

When the time comes to replace the stock bottom end in stephs car with the 383, we'll be going with the EFIconnection ls1 pcm conversion for sure.

Exactly. If this kit would have been on the market three years ago when I bought my computer, I'd have been all over this as the 99+ F-Body and Vette PCM's are VERY capable computers.

[skinnies]

Yes and no. If you buy everything new with a complete harness, yes it will be costly. But if you purchase the basic kit, a used ls1 PCM and coils, do the DIY wiring harness mod kit, you can have it all together for a bit less then half of a stand alone setup.:metal:

When the time comes to replace the stock bottom end in stephs car with the 383, we'll be going with the EFIconnection ls1 pcm conversion for sure.Don't forget then you need a tuning cable/software, which isn't cheap.

Another reason for a nice standalone is in a big nitrous car, can tune per cylinder.

[Fire67]

...Another reason for a nice standalone is in a big nitrous car, can tune per cylinder.

That benefits EVERY built combo, NA/FI/N20, but its hard to dial in without EGT's in every pipe.

[Tony Shepherd]

That benefits EVERY built combo, NA/FI/N20, but its hard to dial in without EGT's in every pipe.

I read plugs and adjust accordingly.:D EGT's help but plug reading is the answer along with a/f.

[Neil350]

Don't forget then you need a tuning cable/software, which isn't cheap.


Correct, HP tuners costs $500 for the software and cable, where the after market set ups come with soft ware. Another issue is not being able to use double roller timing chains with the LS1 set up.