Learning ECU...help - The Unofficial BMW M5 Messageboard (m5board.com)

clauswagner · 14th July 2003, 04:41

Does anyone know more about the following?

The ECU in our cars is adaptive? When a tuner makes changes to the program do you need to reset the adaption? My tuner says you do my BMW technician claims that the values automatically reset when the ECU is disconnected from the car and it will learn the new parameters starting with a fresh slate.

Does anyone have better info on this subject?

Thanks
Claus

Hamann7 · 14th July 2003, 05:02

Claus,

You should call PowerChips about this, as they know this area well.

My understanding is that the ECU does relearn your new driving style and parameters, so I assume it is reset with the new program.

Have you considered giving PowerChips a shot to create a program for your mods? I know you haven't been happy with the Hamann/Superchips setup, so maybe it's time to try something new. I think you will be very happy with the results!

FYI, they have the ability to dyno tune the car as well... Although their core business is selling ECU programs which are mostly adaptive on their own, they are tuning my friend's twin Garrett ball-bearing turbo 996TT and they will be the core of my tuning program for my M5.

BTW, have you lost any bottom end torque from your cams? I am planning to do Hamann or Evosport headers, and was wondering if it is worth it to do cams.

Also, is it worth going through the trouble to fit race cats? How much power are they good for?

clauswagner · 14th July 2003, 17:34

I am working with Chiplogic currently. They were able to eliminate my SES lights that was on constantly because of the cats. (Powerchip was trying but couldn't find a solution, but they were extremely corteous and helpful).

As for the cats, I don't know how much difference they make but htey do. It was discussed on another threat and I believe the gain was over 10rwhp.

As for the cams, I didn't lose any Tq or power in mid range but the total gain wasn't what I expected, about 15 rwhp. The car enjoys higher revs a lot more though.

I am still hoping for some more gains with the right software tuning. I will keep Powerchip in mind.

The one thing I noticed about moding your car. You do two individual modes which give you 10 HP each. With both on the car you only gain a total of 15. I guess the reason is that most mods help the car to breeze and the initial gain with just one mod make the biggest difference. Talk about diminishing returns....

Claus

Hamann7 · 15th July 2003, 22:05

Hi Claus,

I have been in touch with Wayne at PowerChip about your problem. He would like you to drop him a quick email, as he has an idea to help you.

His email is wbesanko@powerchipgroup.com

Please keep us posted on how it goes.

clauswagner · 16th July 2003, 04:49

Thnaks,
I will contact Wayne....