Tuning for Dummies...

VernLaw · 12-09-2007, 02:49 PM

Ok, I am ready to escape from the 'stockness' of my GTO. Given a limited budget, I thought I would start with this:

04-06 PONTIAC GTO Performance parts at RPM OUTLET.com - Free Next Day Air Shipping!

The option with the DiabloSport Tuner and K&N CAI seemed a fair deal, and although I hardly expect to see the claimed 41 rwhp gain, I am sure I will see some gains I can feel.

My question is this: Can any fool operate a Diablosport tuner?

I know my way around cars pretty well, but I have never tried a programmable tuner, and this car is my daily driver (and still under factory warranty) so I do not want to kill it!

Any advice or comments are welcomed.

TR GTO · 12-09-2007, 07:43 PM

The tuner is very easy to use and you can either use the canned tune or if you'd like to use a tuner shop, it can be fine tuned. Personally I used the performance tune, then modified the timing to minimize knock retard, stiffened up the shift points and raised the catalyst over temp setting to keep it from running rich.

aintmisbehavinn · 12-09-2007, 08:58 PM

Put it on a dyno. Get a shop tune. Don't waste your money on the hand helds. Find someone that tunes Corvettes. At least see the numbers, I wouldn't take a chance. Find someone you can take it back to for free when you upgrade.

VernLaw · 12-09-2007, 10:55 PM

Unfortunately, the only tune shops in my area are either 'rice specialists' or bubba-fied, we do not have a legit one for American made cars.

I found one shop near here that does domestics, and after a two minute conversation with the owner it was clear I shouldn't trust him to tune my guitar. So, I thought I would try the canned tune route.