How to install/use it: This is more of a service than an actual hard part, since in most cases, MTI is taking in an original PCM, reprogramming it (termed "reflash" in the industry), and then returning it to the customer. The customer removes the PCM, ships it to MTI in Houston, Texas, and then receives it back in several business days (overnight service is available for an extra cost). The unit is reinstalled and the new programming immediately takes effect. If for any reason the customer is dissatisfied with any of the changes, the unit can be returned and re-tuned to remedy the situation at no extra cost during the first 15 days.
Additional features: Since the PCM is being reflashed, any of the typical performance parameters can be altered during the process, including rpm limits, top speed limits, fuel and spark curves, calibrations to accommodate aftermarket airflow meters, larger injectors, aggressive camshafts, and so on. Entire performance programs are also available for particular combinations.Applications: Any vehicle with a PCM
B&M Racing What it is: B&M ShiftPlus What it does: Recalibrates transmission programming to increase performance, offering two performance modes in addition to stockHow to use/install it: The ShiftPlus is a simple module with a hard-wired control panel. It connects to the factory PCM harness, and then the control panel is mounted in the cabin. The user has the option of selecting from two performance modes, one with more positive shifts for heavy-duty use, like towing, and another for street/strip performance, with much firmer shifts and higher shift points. The user can also elect to turn the unit off, which allows the PCM to run stock programming. B&M claims the unit can be installed in minutes and that it will reduce heat and slippage during extreme use.Applications: PN 70380: '94-'96 Caprice/Impala; '93-'98 Camaro/Firebird; '94-'98 Corvette, '93-'98 Suburban, Tahoe, Blazer, and 1500/2500/3500-series pickups with MT1 or M30 transmission code
FastchipVeteran racer and tuner Ed Wright offers his 30-plus years of performance experience to late-model GM vehicle owners looking to improve the performance of their cars through enhanced calibration. Fastchip doesn't delve into hard parts, limiting its work to altering the electronic tuning of the vehicle's engine management unit to accomplish the desired goals. Of course, there's only so much that can be done with stock hardware, but once you've maximized the potential of the factory equipment, Wright can continue to tweak your computer to take full advantage of any other modifications made. As with most of the other tuning methods, transmission shifting and firmness can also be altered by Fastchip.
What it is: Fastchip PCM reflash program What it does: Alters the factory drivetrain management calibrations to increase performance
How to use/install it: In most cases the original PCM must be removed, sent to Fastchip to be reprogrammed, and then returned to the customer, who reinstalls the unit. Fastchip also offers an exchange program for those who can't afford downtime. As is the case with most of the tuning methods we've covered, Fastchip can alter shift timing and firmness, as well as the "torque management" of each shift-a term that refers to the amount of ignition-timing retard during shifts and the time it takes for the shift to be executed. Wright points out that the characteristics of each shift can be programmed individually, and if desired, the really firm shifts can be limited to wide-open-throttle operation only. As an aside, Wright points out that there were a few models produced by GM that used the 4L60E and 4L80E with E-PROM type computers, though all were trucks. For the 4L60E, these included '93-'95 11/42-ton pickups and vans, and for the 4L80E, the '91-'95 31/44- and 1-ton trucks. Fastchip can also recalibrate these vehicles using a new chip.
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