Performance Diesel Tuning

Diesel Chip:
A chip plugs directly into the engine's PCM & alters operation parameters such as fuel pressure, injection timing, & injection pulse width. Chips are capable of "on-the-fly" tuning, meaning you can change between different power settings while the truck is running or driving.

Diesel Programmer:
Programmers plug into a truck's OBDII (on-board diagnostic) port and then reprogram the vehicles PCM with altered operation parameters. Aftermarket tunes alter injector pulse width, injection timing, fuel pressure, & other events in order to increase performance. Unlike chips & modules, programmers do not offer "on-the-fly" tuning, meaning the engine will have to be shut down in order to select a different performance setting. Changing performance settings can take up 10 minutes to complete the reprogramming.

Diesel Module/Box:
A module/box installs under the hood of the vehicle and connects to various sensors (usually fuel pressure & manifold absolute pressure sensors) & the engine PCM. By collecting data from the sensors, factory engine calibrations are altered & enhanced to optimize performance. Modules may feature "on-the-fly" setting changes if a switch or display is included. Some modules also use in-cab displays to show vital engine data like coolant temperature, turbocharger boost pressure, etc.

- One of the best "bang for the buck" modifications. A few hundred dollars can add 100+ HP & 200+ lb-ft of torque (much more in some applications).
- Installation is simple & straight forward in most installs.
- Many tuners come with pyrometers so that EGT levels can be monitored.
- Most tuners offer "change on the fly" tuning so that in an instant the truck can be changed from stock to performance mode while driving.
- Most tuners also modify transmission shifting patterns to match the increased performance of the truck.
- Economy tunes offer increased fuel economy.

- Exhaust gas temperatures can reach dangerous levels when using "hot" performance tunes.
- Automakers will not warranty a vehicle that has altered electronics. Mechanics can tell when an engine has been modified, even if the tuner/module leaves no trace on the PCM.
- Performance tunes can be harsh on stock engines & components may break due to increased cylinder pressures & heat.

- High EGTs
- Blown head gaskets or other internal engine damage.
- Stock transmission not built for increased power, and damage/premature failure can occur.

Power Gains: (estimated)

- 50-150+ lb-ft with a mild tune (safe for towing).
- 150 - 300 lb-ft with a performance/race tune.
- Custom tuning + additional modifications has near endless possibilities.
- Increased fuel economy with an economy tune.

All Power Stroke, Cummins, & Duramax engines.

Head studs & transmission upgrades (replacement of the stock torque converter) are recommended. An EGT gauge is also highly recommended to monitor exhaust gas temperatures and avoid catastrophic engine damage.