seems like you probably know the capabilities of the PNP unit better than any info ive been able to find, i would eventually want to run traction control using a ground speed sensor, i dont see any reason why the pnp unit wouldnt be able to do that but then again there is NO user manual or technical drawing of the box so i honestly have no clue how many extra inputs and outputs it has or what capabilites have been removed from it. I would also want multi-config setup and variable traction/launch control. I really just need some kind of info on the PNP unit before i consider it. If i cant get anymore info on it im going to have to go through the headache and spend the extra money for the gold box just because of a lack of information

 

ill will try and find some more info on the pnp in terms of outputs/inputs ect for the evo9.

 

5 volts works fine, good news for me... i talked to simon@motec and he said the pnp has basically no extra inputs or outputs

 

Smogrunner, I want to thank you for this thread. You just saved me at least $2500.00!

 

Batmann, saving $2500 is one way to look at it. Not having the maximum power you could have is another

 

The other way to look at it is that he could spend that extra $2500 on a turbo upgrade.

 

+10000

 

I'd have to agree and disagree with you a bit..

as we get to know the capabilities of the ECU more intimately, its pretty clear that its possible to use the ECU to make similar numbers to a standalone. HOWEVER, the biggest advantage of the standalone is the removal of the MAF, which is proven to gain power.

But what if you run a stockish ECU, with minor mods, and no MAF sensor? What If I told you we're only a few months away from making modifications to the ECU to add functionality that the AEM has that people find important.

I guess the jury is still out, but I think its not as big a difference in power as people think..

 

Good points and very well thought out.
Everyone is entitled to an opinion. It comes down to each individual persons wants. I run an AEM and I love it. I used my stock ECU for sometime but switched as there was no way of programming the ECU with out having Dynoflash, etc come and set it up. Now there are many different ways of handling these issues with technology the way it is.
Do what best suits you and your wallet.
Good luck.

 

what kind of advantages do switching over to speed density allow? how much more power can be extracted from removing the MAF and how safe is it to do so?

if you need an example turbo for comparison, say a 20g or gt35r.

 

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

... that's true, but being able to make close to 500whp on the stock ECU with just a flash... that's the gravy on the meatloaf My goal is to make around 470whp on pump gas (93 octane), and 550whp on 109 unleaded race gas, while still being able to pass emissions in 48 out of 50 states. Why should I spend around $2500.00 on an AEM EMS that will not pass emissions, when the stock ECU with a flash or a piggy-back will work just fine? In my own opinion, making an additional 100 horsepower is just not worth it, if I have to worry whenever it is time for emissions testing. I will gladly stick with the stock ECU, and or a piggyback like the TurboXS UTEC.

Secondly, all the good reputable shops - AMS, Buschur e.t.c - y'all are on the East coast. I'm in the Austin area, and we don't really have any options over here. Hence, to have something as complicated as an AEM EMS, we would need installation and support facilities in the area.
Just my .99 cents.

 

i like blue evos idea but a little off topic R/T you seem to know quite a bit about tuning and im not familiar with the aem standalone ecu. im in the process of buying a car with one and im trying to get to know it as much as possible but is hard to learn from nowing nothing. anyway to pick you brain or maybe pm me with a bunch of info on it?

 

Do you realize how old this thread is????

 

had my head jammed somewhere and didnt see 13 pages so anyone whos willing to help me learn id appreciate it alot even if its a little info

 

I think I took it to mean that if you wanted to stay sane under 400hp or so you would do well to stay with the stock ECU but if you want to go on the other side of 500hp you are better served to go with a stand alone.