The classic "which aftermarket ECU" question

[Clay B]

1) The Haltech E6K

2) The Electromotive TEC II

3) The Autronic SMC

4) The FP system (although, with the WBO2 option, this actually above the
top of my price range)     

Well, you may have inadvertently narrowed your choices. If you want ECU
control of the turbo (and why would you not, if you're spending all that
$$ on a computer). Electromotive won't control a wastegate. They're priced
fairly high, also. I'm pretty sure Speed Pro won't control a turbo,
either. I'm not too familiar with Haltech.

What I have used is the Autronics SMC. Yes, you are correct that the
documentation sucks. OTOH, the hardware and software work very well. After
a short, steep learning curve I have no problems instructing the ECU to do
my bidding. It allows *complete* control of the engine. Injection timing
is adjustable, timing can be adjusted at cranking speeds to nurse a hot
engine to life with a flick of the key. Transient conditions adjustments
are very flexible, and complete. You can cut the fuel during deceleration,
and bring it back in smoothly.

The Autronics will operate open or closed loop. I found no need for a WBO2
sensor to do my tuning, although I do have an EGT gauge which I found
helpful. Watching for puffs of black smoke during transient conditions is
a highly effective (although lo tech) method of tuning as well.

Oh yeah, here's the  best part. I can build different timing/boost curves
to match different fuels. I can burn 92 octane, and limit the boost to 12
psi, or run 100LL avgas, and let 'er rip up to max boost without fear of
detonating the engine.

I would not forego electronic wastegate control.

- Clay


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