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The Value Of Vehicle Computer Chip Adjustments

For a modern automobile, computer-controlled goes hand in hand with horsepower. In earlier years, a few carburetor adjustments would translate into a performance boost. However, since the advent of electronic fuel injection and other technological advancements, systems under the hood of your vehicle are increasingly controlled by computers. As a result, aftermarket computer chips have been developed that enable even a technophobe to modify their vehicle.

Upgrades: How and Why

While there may be a variety of upgrade manufacturers, including JET Performance, Superchips, etc., they all work on the same principles. First, a programmer module, otherwise known as a tuner, is connected to the car computer via the ALDA connector. Note that this connector type is only present on vehicles manufactured on or after 1996. After the connection is made, the tuner pulls in the VIN and all other configuration data. Once that data is analyzed, the tuner presents the user with a settings menu.

Upgrades are not necessary for motorists, but the activity isn’t limited to the car junkie or performance enthusiast. When the car leaves the factory, the control unit is programmed according to an “average driver” profile. For drivers who need the acceleration and power to successfully tackle a freeway on-ramp day after day, or those faced with steep inclines on a routine basis, module tuning can be valuable.

Common Adjustments

There are literally dozens of parameters available on a typical computer tuner, but among them, five settings can significantly change your vehicle’s driving performance. First, the “top speed limiter” determines your car’s maximum speed. When using high-performance tires, this should be adjusted in order to match the specified ratings.

The “rev limiter” determines the maximum rpm (revolutions per minute) value the engine can withstand. By increasing this setting, also known as widening the powerband, your car can deliver more emergency power. This is especially helpful when you’re trying to avoid an erratic driver or claim your spot on the freeway.

“Shift points” are speed and rpm markers that determine when an automatic transmission switches gears. By tweaking these points it is possible to improve acceleration, which is vital for quick passing or avoiding accidents.

Speedometer and odometer corrections are useful for tire size compensation. Cars are programmed at the factory for stock tire sizes, but for those who have installed larger tires or changed 4×4 gear ratios, the speedometer and odometer are no longer accurate.

The most important setting on a tuner concerns the gas and air mixture. These adjustments can result in additional horsepower, torque, and better fuel economy, but drastic changes can be harmful to your engine. In addition, personal driving habits can play a big role in the fuel mix configuration.

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Your Car’s Gas Tank: Draining, Removing, And Installing

Gas tank repairs are sorely overlooked, but when it comes to years of leaks, corrosion, and general wear and tear, avoiding this important fix can be expensive and dangerous. Luckily, the procedure is relatively easy and it’s easily accomplished by even a novice gearhead. In this article, I’ll provide a quick blueprint for draining and removing your old unit from your vehicle. I’ll also explain how to install a replacement.

General Safety Tips

When replacing a gas tank, removing the old one can be dangerous due to vapors or left over gasoline. For this reason, always work in an area with plenty of ventilation and wear a grounding strap, a device used to dissipate static electricity. Also, make sure that the workplace is well-lit and organized, as unnecessary clutter can cause accidents. Lastly, have a fire extinguisher on hand in case of a fire.

Draining the Fuel

In order to install the new tank, the old one must first be drained. Find a container that is large enough to hold the fuel remaining inside. Methods of draining the tank can vary by vehicle, but some have a drain cock (a removable plug) located at the lowest point. If you’re unable to find a drain cock, then one of the fuel lines will need to be removed. Aim for the tube exiting at the lowest point of the unit to completely drain the reservoir.

Tank Removal and Installation

If the fuel lines were not removed previously, now is the time to remove them. Besides the supply line that heads toward the engine, the vent line and fill tube need to be released.

Next, depending upon the car, the rear suspension may need to be dropped, but check first to see if the reservoir can be removed without doing so. To remove the suspension, first disconnect the bottom fitting on the rear shock absorbers and expose the shocks. Then, disconnect the rear brake lines and remove the nuts suspending the rear beam assembly.

To dislodge the tank, the holding straps need to be removed. Each tank is suspended by two straps; each strap is bolted at one end. Removing the unit is simple. Unscrew the bolt, pull down the strap, and unhook it at the other end.

To install the reservoir, simply perform the above process in reverse. Insert the assembly, replace the straps, reinstall the rear suspension (if necessary), and reconnect the fuel lines. Lastly, fill the reservoir with the previously-drained gasoline and check for any leaks. As an added precaution, be sure to wipe up any traces of gasoline that may have spilled during the procedure.

Part Of Your Automotive Education

I realize that we went through the above procedure quickly. In truth, it is an easy job to perform (though novices will likely be intimidated). You can take your car to a mechanic to have him perform the entire process. But doing it yourself saves time and money while increasing your knowledge about your vehicle.

For all your used Chevrolet engines and used Chevrolet transmissions needs consider the leader in parts, http://www.everdrive.com

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