At Bark Brothers we understand the apprehension associated with ECU tuning, and work diligently with our clients to set and manage expectations. It’s important to understand that the outcome is based on the vehicle’s potential, not just the ‘laptop.’ Safety is paramount, and performance longevity crucial. It’s also important to know the exact specification of your vehicle at the time of the tune (i.e. engine, installed modifications, etc).
Here’s the synopsis of our tuning process:
It’s pertinent that the client’s goals are conveyed clearly, and we can discuss them ad nauseum if required. We believe there are four general priorities of tuning: Power, Reliability, Economy, and Emissions. Based off our initial interaction, and current vehicle modifications, we will determine if the client’s goals are realistic and make any necessary recommendations.
After receiving the ECU, we connect and download a full image, which is saved by VIN for posterity. If reversion back to the original configuration at a later date is required, we’ve got you covered.
In some cases, we may have a loaner ECU available that can be imaged and shipped to the client while they are awaiting their tuned ECU.
We know OCD! Tuning is a details-oriented process. Attention to detail is critical; nothing can be, or will be, overlooked. Once remapped, and reviewed…and reviewed again, the ECU is shipped back to the client.
This is the responsibility of the client. We trust they can reverse the steps in the process and successfully reinstall their ECU. We will handle this for our face-to-face clientele.
After the freshly modified ECU is installed in the vehicle, it’s pertinent to perform datalogging, to verify safety, performance, and to understand how the vehicle is performing after the amendments have been performed. As an example, a popular data logging program for Italian cars is MultiEcuScan, it can be used as a diagnostic tool at a fraction of dealer cost. There are other options, and we work with our clients to determine which are the best cost-effective alternatives.
Once we receive datalog files, we will review them and notify our clients if adjustments need to be made. We normally air on the cautious side of the spectrum. If more performance can be achieved safely, we can update the map.
But what if the client becomes drunk on power, and wants more? We can reassess. If more performance becomes a requirement, ask us about increasing performance by upgrading your performance parts and accessories. A new turbo from MuchBoost, for instance, coupled with our ECU tuning, will certainly deliver greater performance!
Stage tuning is based on physical modifications to the vehicle. Each tuning company interprets their “Stages” a little differently. A general rule of thumb for Stage tuning is listed below:
Stage 1 – Vehicle contains all OEM (Stock) components, ECU remapping only
Stage 2 – Vehicle contains Upgraded filter(s), Exhaust modifications, Intercooler, ECU remapping
Stage 3 – Vehicle contains Upgraded filter(s), Exhaust modifications, Intercooler, Upgraded turbo(s), Fuel Injs, ECU remapping
Stage 4 – Vehicle contains Upgraded filter(s), Exhaust modifications, Intercooler, Upgraded turbo(s), Fuel Injs, Engine Internals, ECU remapping
You know you want more from your car but, how do you get there? Bark Brothers Tuning can help! Let us review your mileage, modifications, and goals, and together we’ll come up with a plan to maximize your vehicle’s performance and get you tuned!
To tune or not to tune, that is the question! Tuning is not for everyone and not for every vehicle. We’ll help you decide what’s best for your situation and make recommendations based upon our expertise. When you’re happy, we’re happy!
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