This is the 21st century — and what we call — the golden age of EFI tuning. New cars don’t come with carburetors, and engine electronics are becoming more complex by the minute. Knowing what tuning solutions are out there and how to use them are the keys to maximizing horsepower and torque. One of the leaders in EFI calibration is Longwood, Florida’s SCT Performance, a company with a history of EFI innovation. Today, SCT’s tuners and tuning software are used all over by professional tuners, performance shops, and individual owners to get the most out of their computer-controlled vehicles. In this article, we are going to overview “Flash Tuning” and specifically overview SCT’s current project line.
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Call it “SCT Flash 101”. The History of SCT In 2003, three hard-core automotive enthusiasts founded Superchips Custom Tuning. All had been involved in the automotive industry for years, but wanting to put their own twist on an automotive tuning solution, they combined their knowledge into their new venture. The initial product line consisted of a rebranded flash tuner named “Extreme”, a custom tuning software package named Advantage, a multi-program switch chip, and a USB programmer named “The Chipper” for dealers to program the multi-program switch chips. The Chipper was innovative for it’s time. “The Chipper was the latest technology for programming switch chips back then,” explained Tim Roi, Marketing and Media Manager for SCT. According to SCT, it was the first USB based chip programmer and it was faster then any other chip programmer on the market as SCT explained that most chip programmers back then still used serial communication which was slower.
From that beginning, the company became SCT in 2006, and by 2007 was renamed SCT Performance LLC. Today, SCT has over 37 employees and is owned by a private investment firm in partnership with its employees who invested into the company. SCT is located in sunny Longwood, Florida. Turning OBD-II into a tuning tool OBD stands for On-Board Diagnostics, and it started in the late eighties when tightening environmental standards meant the end of the carburetor in OEM applications. The original OBD-I (mandated to be included on all new 1988 vehicles sold in California) was a feeble attempt by regulators to gather and test each vehicle’s emissions specific diagnostic information.
The hope was to implement an annual emissions testing program to reduce pollution (denied registration for vehicles that failed), but due to the lack of standardized connectors and technical difficulties getting reliable information from the vehicles, the emissions testing program was scraped. The X3 represents the first era of SCT flash tuning by offering a tuner that dealers could install custom tunes in. In 1996, OBD-I had evolved into OBD-II. The change consisted of a new diagnostic connector, electrical signaling protocols, and messaging format, all standardized. With the new connector and standardized communication system came an extensive list of DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Codes) and a matching list of vehicle parameters that could be monitored in real time. The new OBD-II system would become a valuable custom tuning tool for data logging and advanced vehicle troubleshooting. Knowing the key to properly tuning a vehicle is getting accurate data from the vehicle, leading tuners quickly took advantage of the OBD-II system and developed a hardware / software solution to view, record and monitor (data logging) this real time data from the vehicle onto a laptop PC.
Calibrations – Flashing & other Techno Jargon Flashing refers to the process of reprogramming the vehicle’s Electronic Control Module (also referred to as the ECU), with a revised version of the stock calibration. SCT’s Touch Screen Xtreme is true 21st century tuning technology that will offer horsepower calculators and MP3 playback.
Calibration (sometimes referred to as Strategy) is the instruction set that controls how the vehicle runs and drives, and it is very complex in its raw form. “It’s like reading a foreign dictionary without a translator,” says SCT’s Mike Thornhill. Every year, model and engine combination uses a different version of the ECU and often a year / model and engine combination can have several different versions of the calibration. For example, two identical Mustangs, one with a 5 speed transmission and one with an automatic transmission, will have different ECU calibrations. Of course this is not just limited to different transmissions or engines, often manufacturers will switch or update the calibration mid year to improve a vehicles performance or fix an issue experienced after a vehicle model is released. With dozens of calibrations released for every model, every year and every engine combination released by the auto manufacturers, it becomes a very complicated process to supply performance calibrations for all of them. To add to the complication, now throw in multiple manufacturers such as Ford, GM and Chrysler!
For each of these hundreds of calibrations released each year, SCT has to “read” the stock calibration to create a performance version of the calibration for the vehicle. Built into each calibration are parameters such as ignition timing and, fuel maps, oxygen sensor voltage ranges, MAF sensor translation tables, and hundreds of other items. Fortunately, only a small subset of these items need to be changed for a performance tune, but each change has to be tested repeatedly to verify it does not have an ill effect on other areas of the calibration. The SCT Livewire was the prelude to the Touch Screen Xtreme.
“When SCT creates a revised tune for a vehicle, we adjust the ECU’s parameters to optimize the air/fuel ratio, timing tables, etc.,” Roi explained. As easy as this sounds, it is actually a very complicated process since these tables aren’t simple two-dimensional “RPM versus spark advance” curves. A half-dozen or more sensor inputs might go into determining how much fuel gets injected at any particular moment, and it is the breakdown of this code that allows SCT to make the tunes that increase horsepower and torque, but don’t effect the vehicles drivability. Cracking the Code Some vehicles are hard to crack. When it came time to tune the late model Hemi platform, it made for a long trial and error process at SCT.
“They appear to be more knowledgeable about what we do, and almost anticipating that we are going to reverse-engineer it, so they make it harder for us to do,” Thornill said. SCT also pointed to the first 2005 Mustang, tuned for a Hot Rod magazine article in 2004, as being a tough one. Along with a new body design, Ford also included a “Drive By Wire” throttle system. The new ECU not only had more memory and a new method of communicating, it was also packing far more processing power. This created some unique issues when it came to tuning these new models, especially with supercharged and nitrous applications. Because of the Drive By Wire system and the advanced intelligence of the ECU, the Mustang’s computer would slam the throttle closed if it anticipated the engine was going to hit the rev limiter. Needless to say, this isn’t a stupid computer.
In September of 2004, SCT’s S197 Mustang tune was put to the test in an article with Hot Rod magazine, one month before the new 2005 Mustangs rolled into the showrooms! Working with Paul’s High Performance they were able to get a stock vehicle to run a 12.47. SCT: 2009 Tuners! SCT offers several different tuning options, whether you are an enthusiast looking to add some more power and torque to your stock vehicle, a racer that demands a high level of adjustability, or a full blown performance shop that wants to tune vehicles for customers, SCT has a flash tuner or software package to fit the bill. First, let’s start with the basic tuners offered from SCT. The SF3 Hand Held Tuner The SF3 has the ability to hold both pre-programmed and custom tunes. Made for most GM and Ford vehicles, the SF3 is what most would consider a “typical” flash tuner. Emailchemy 11 serial mac lookup.
The SF3 comes preloaded with dyno-tested tune files for all vehicles from a single manufacturer, meaning there is a specific Ford SF3 that cannot be used on a GM vehicle and vice versa. All of SCT’s flash tuners back up your original stock file in case you need to reload the factory tune, especially for those scary trips back to the dealership for service. “When you plug in one of our pre-loaded tuners into the vehicle, you simply follow the on-screen prompts. The device will automatically identify your vehicle’s “calibration” and reprogram the vehicle using a tune designed and tested by SCT to increase the vehicle’s horsepower and torque,” Roi remarks. The SF3 is straight forward to use, is perfect for the average Do-It-Yourselfer and can load tunes in about 15 minutes In addition to the ability to load SCT’s performance tune, the SF3 also has a number of other useful features and user adjustable options:.
Gear & Tire Size Adjustment – Swapping rear end ratios, transmissions, and changing your tire size can affect your speedometer. The SF3 allows you to recalibrate it with a few simple steps. Rev/Speed Limiter Adjustment – If you’ve done valvetrain modifications that can safely be spun to higher-than-stock speeds, the SF3 will allow you to raise the engine RPM limit accordingly.
In the same way, you can raise or remove the stock speed limiter for competition use. Built In Scan Tool – The SF3 acts like a scan tool by having the ability to read and clear trouble codes. Data Logging/Analog Inputs – You can leave the SCT tuner plugged into your OBD-II port and then use a USB cable to attach the tuner to a Windows-based laptop for real time data logging and monitoring of all the OBD-II functions.
The analog inputs allow you to log information like EGT and air/fuel ratios using additional hardware, and data log / monitor it along with the OBD-II data stream. Adjustment for Automatics – SCT didn’t forget about you automatic transmission guys. Even though SCT’s performance tunes often include transmission adjustments, there are provisions inside the tuner to raise the shift points as well as increase shift firmness for harder and faster shifts so you can adjust your transmission exactly how you want it.
Advanced Tuning – Beyond the preloaded tune, the SF3 allows you to adjust ignition and fuel mapping within pre-selected RPM ranges by adding or reducing global fuel and spark advance. This feature comes in real handy if you have your vehicle on the dyno. We used this feature to tweak the air / fuel ratio and add a degree of timing to a GT500 project we recently did. Stores 3 Custom Tunes – At some point you may want to have your vehicle custom tuned on a dyno by a professional custom tuner (if need to find one, go to SCT’s website and use their cool Dealer Locator). Most of SCT’s flash tuners all hold 3 custom tunes, so an SCT dealer can create you 3 tunes for your vehicle. This is a great feature especially if you run nitrous or want a tune for different gas octane levels. Special Notes: SF3 Handheld Tuner – Cali-Spec Okay, there is no ‘special edition’ SF3 devices, but SCT did create a special SF3 for those that live on the West Coast like us.
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SCT offers an SF3 device that comes preloaded with performance tune files that are 50 State Emissions Legal. You will get the same preloaded / dyno tested as the regular SF3, but the device has no user adjustable options and cannot store any custom tune files. These devices are perfect for the California consumer that wants more power and torque, but needs to pass California emissions checks. The X3 Hand Held Tuner The X3 is simply the SF3 without the tunes loaded from SCT, essentially a blank tuner. It utilizes all the same features as the SF3 but is designed for custom tuners that are part of the SCT dealer network, allowing them to market a cost effective tuner loaded with their own tune files. If you were to visit an SCT custom tuner, this is likely the device you would leave with after your car had been custom tuned.
Touch Screen Xtreme The Touch Screen Xtreme (TSX) is a true 21st century tuner. “After we released our Live Wire device in 2006, consumers told us they wanted a smaller flash device with a full color screen.” Roi commented. The Touch Screen Xtreme will come in a custom carrying case. Overall, the tuner utilizes all the same functions as the SF3 but will house both GM and Ford vehicles all in one part number (Ford available now, GM to be released in the near future). The obvious upgrade is right there in the name; the touch screen.
The other fun fact is that there is no wires that connects from the screen to the OBD-II port as it is all done wirelessly. There is even a light sensor on the display that will automatically dim the backlight at night. In addition to the tuning functions built in, the processing horsepower and memory capacity of the TSX will allow it to become an all-purpose device for your dashboard. Initially, the TSX will have a built in MP3 player, photo viewer, user adjustable themes and gauge graphics and a list of other features are slated to be added shortly after its release. When we asked what the other “add-on” features were, the answer was to the point, “We could tell you, but then we would have to kill you.” Darn.
Current TSX Features The TSX will also auto dim depending on lighting conditions. Full Color 4.3″ Touch Screen — All of the user interface of the TSX is controlled via LCD touch screen. Wireless — With the built-in rechargeable battery and using wireless technology, the TSX can program and data log your vehicle without the use of wires or cables. Gas & Diesel Support — The TSX works with both Ford gas and diesel (even the new 6.4L diesel trucks) vehicles and comes preloaded with tune files for both. GM support is slated for later this year.
Performance Calculator — This allows the unit to measure the vehicle’s quarter-mile, 0-60 and even horsepower and torque ratings. It estimates these figures using an internal stopwatch, accellerometer and input from the vehicle’s ECU. Though they aren’t going to be as accurate as going to a dyno or drag strip, these functions can serve as a good point of reference and for measuring before and after gains for modifications.
The TSX main control module. High Speed Data Logging and Gauge Readouts — Eliminating the need to have another computer in the car to data log is a plus. The TSX integrates all the data logging into one unit that can be downloaded to your computer for further study. Also, there is a gauge function that can take almost any sensor and turn it into an analog or digital gauge, and the display allows multiple on-screen gauges at one time for real time monitoring OBD-II data.
The Pro Racer Tuning Package If you are a hard core racer, take a look at SCT’s Pro Racer Tuning Package. The Pro Racer Tuning package basically unlocks the capabilities of what you can do to your vehicle’s ECU. “We created the Pro Racer software so the racer or enthusiast could custom tune their own vehicle without having to spend thousands of dollars buying our dealer-level software,” Roi remarked. SCT Pro Racer software allows stock ECU tune-ability on even the most extreme combos. Though intended for a tuner with experience, the software has integrated help screens and also tracks what you changed in case you need to “undo”. The package includes a single PCM / Calibration code version of SCT’s Advantage 3 Custom Tuning Software and a SCT Flash Tuner or switch chip setup. Pro Racers can also add additional PCM codes and additional flash tuners for use on multiple vehicles at an additional cost.
With SCT’s Pro Racer package, you can literally control and tune almost any engine combination, from a stock street car all the way to 1,000-plus horsepower power-adder engines. Roi says, “Our Pro Racer software is basically the same software our worldwide network of custom tuners use to custom tune vehicles, but is limited to tuning one vehicle only. Racers wanted the ability to tune their own vehicle and make adjustments while at the track etc. And that is why we offer this option.” The Pro Racer is a powerful software designed for dealers and experienced tuners Tuning 101 – How to use a SCT Flash Tuner Follow along as we show you the basics of setting up your SCT tuner. The process is very simple, but we will break it down step-by-step.
If you’re flashing your vehicle for the time, you’ll have this handy guide to follow along with: The OBD-II port is typically located under a vehicles dash 1) You must locate the OBD-II port on your vehicle, which will always be located within three feet of the driver and won’t require any tools to access. Typically, it’s underneath the driver’s side of the dash, but it may be in the center console or concealed behind the ashtray.
Plug the tuner in with the vehicle in the ignition key in the ‘off’ position The “program vehicle” screen will be the first screen you come to when programming a vehicle with the X3 or like devices. 2) The user selects ‘Program Vehicle’ from the on-screen menu. The device prompts the user to turn the ignition key to the ‘on’ position. The SF3 will detect any Ford vehicle supported automatically. 3) If the tuner is a pre-loaded device (SF3 and TSX), the vehicle is automatically identified and the tuner prompts the user to press a key to continue. The SCT device will then read the stock program from the vehicle and store a copy of it within the flash device. It also verifies the stock tune was read and backed up correctly before erasing it from the ECU’s memory.
Make sure to let the SF3 completely program the vehicle before disconnecting or turning off. 4) The flash device then uploads the user selected pre-loaded SCT tune file or the custom tune file created by the SCT dealer to the vehicle’s ECU. Wide Open Throttle fuel adjustment is one of the many custom adjustments offered in the SF3. You can adjust by% richer or leaner. 5) Once the revised tune is loaded, you can then take advantage of the advanced functions like transmission shift firmness, rev limiter, and the tire size selector. If you have access to a dyno and a wide band oxygen sensor, you can test your vehicle to optimize the spark and fuel adjustments to further improve your tune. The SF3 will store your stock tune file in case you decide to return the vehicle to stock.
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6) If the need arises to return the vehicle back to the stock tune, simply plug in the device again, select “return to stock” from the on-screen menu, and it goes through the same process to reload the factory programming. Once a vehicle is programmed with the tuner, it is ‘locked’ to that vehicle by using the vehicle’s VIN number. Our Experience with SCT Tuners Having the luxury of our Dynojet out back, we have the ability to put the SCT tuners to the test.
All our current test mules have been Fords; a GT500, F-350, and an Expedition. GT500 – Our GT500 is a low mileage 2005, with a short list of modifications including a Steeda GT500 cold air intake, Gibson cat-back exhaust, and of course, the SCT tuner. Since it isn’t recommended to run a GT500 without a tune after installing an intake, the ‘after’ test was done with the SCT tune designed specifically for the Steeda intake. The gains were a pleasant surprise; 58 RWHP and 33 ft/lbs.
After simply subtracting another 1% of fuel using the user adjustable features to tweak the air / fuel ratio, we picked up another 2 RWHP and 3 ft/lbs. To celebrate, we went out and burned 5,000 miles off the tires (with the owner’s permission, of course).
Results Before: 450.19 RWHP, 450.48 ft/lbs After: 510.35 RWHP, 486.03 ft/lbs Gains: 60.16 RWHP, 35.55 ft/lbs 5.4-liter Expedition – A mostly-stock vehicle that was in much need of power; getting beat by V6 Mustangs is just plain embarrassing. The simple bolt-ons included a K&N intake, Eneos oil change, Magnaflow cat-back, and a Granatelli mass air flow sensor. The SCT programmer picked up almost 9 RWHP on the first try, and by leaning the air/fuel slightly and adding a single degree of timing, an additional 12 RWHP was made.
Also, the transmission shifted harder and a 1-1.5 MPG increase was recorded. Imagine that, we gained horsepower and torque and increased the fuel economy! Results: Before: 192.9 RWHP, 266.6 ft/lbs After: 213.6 RWHP, 295.39 ft/lbs Gains: 20.7 RWHP, 29.4 ft/lbs F-350 Dualie Diesel – The F-350 was so big that we had to take the outside wheel off just to fit it on the dyno. During the runs, it fumigated the whole back of the shop.
On this vehicle, the only modification we made was the SCT tune. We choose the “Street Tune” included with the SF3 device. With that, we picked up a blistering 72 RWHP and 104 ft/lbs. Obviously, SCT knows what they’re doing, and unlocked a huge amount of power compared to the stock tune. The best part, is there is still 1 step up in power / torque. SCT’s “Performance Tune” can add as much as 120-150 horsepower depending on the year of the diesel truck. F-350 Results: Before: 262.41 RWHP, 415.13 ft/lbs After: 334.46 RWHP, 519.89 ft/lbs Gains: 72.05 RWHP, 104.76 ft/lbs.