I was reading up on some ems systems for my car and I am really considering the UTEC. Would you reccomend the utec as a first mod, then when I get some more mods, dl a map for itl? Or get my basic bolt ons, then get the utec? Originally, I was going to get i/e/dp, a boost controller, and an safcII. From my understanding, with the utec, I dont need the boost controller and af controller. Am I right?

 

Yes, you are correct.. Boost control, Fuel and Timing are controllable with the UTEC.. I think its probably a good first mod, at least in as much as you will gain a bit of power, with just the UTEC with its base map. However when you add mods, you will likely need to re-tune, there is not yet a good library of maps, nor would I recommend using someone elses map.

The great thing about getting this as a first mod, is you get the opportunity to learn how to tune it correctly, and learn how each modification effects the current tune and what exactly it is you will need to change. The insight gained is invaluable.

 

this is the ultimate first mod. Boost controll built in, tuning, better MPG, great tech support. I have to say it though, you need the tuner to go with it. Takes out the guess work. RRR

 

can you explain the tuner to me? I really dont understand. Does it take place of a computer?

 

Same here...I'm completly new to EMS and the whole laptop/whatever concept. This thing runs for how much?

 

The tuner is a tuning tool.. lets you measure air/fuel ratio, and see/hear knock in a manner that allows you to alter your car's performance safely (if done carefully) It Interfaces with the UTEC, however it does not do any tuning on its own (though it would be cool to maintain a closed loop ratio dynamically)

You will still require a laptop to manipulate the UTEC's maps and log data, OR when the Gameboy interface is released, I was told it will have some of that functionality built in (I'm unaware of what else it will be able to do though)

 

How much is the whole package? Utech seems to be a badass toy guys....

By the way, is there a book on tuning? Or better yet, a book on tuning for the utech!!!

 

I think the UTEC makes an awesome first mod - gives you a great chance to learn the ins and outs on an otherwise stock car, so much less margin for error.

The when you are ready to mod, you'll already be comfortable with the tuning, the datalogging, and the various other features the UTEC can offer, so you'll have a much quicker time getting the tunes down.

Make sure to get your UTEC from an authorized dealer.....it has obvious benefits in terms of warranty and more importantly, support.

The UTEC comes with a very lengthy book that fully outlines how it does what it does and why, and will serve as your trusty sidekick when you are first getting started with it.

As for a laptop, most any old thing will do - no need for anything fancy. I use a Dell P2 that we strictly bought for the purposes of tuning the various standalones we deal with, and it has worked out perfectly.......I would think you can pick up a suitable laptop for around $100 nowadays.

 

i have a boost controlle and AFC etc.... I wanted to add a IC, cams and some other minor things and then get the Utec and tune it from there....

(taking out the AFC and EVC)

-Shahul

 

Yeah, I picked up a laptop from a friend at work for $250 with a bad hard disk.. Technically you can use a DOS terminal program and not even use a hard disk, but I Chose to fix the machine, I ended up with a REALLY NICE Laptop now with a 20gb drive ($50) for a total of $300.. Its a Celeron 450mhz IBM 240x, Not the fastest machine in the world, but its really small and easy to work with in the car..