FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions :::::::::::::::::
- Q: "How does e-tuning (e-mail tuning) work?"
A: E-mail tuning relies on your ability to upload calibrations, record datalog files, and follow instructions. Once your order is processed and we have a completed "Terms of Service Agreement" on file, you'll receive a starting calibration with a list of datalogs to record. You'll load up the calibration, record/save the logs, and send them back for review. The logs are then reviewed, changes to the calibration are made, and another calibration file is sent to you to repeat the process again. This back-and-forth continues until the tune is complete. - Q: "If I changed parts on my car since it was tuned last, do I need a retune?"
A: In some cases, yes. In others, no. It just depends what parts have changed, really. When in doubt, send an e-mail, and we'll be happy to clarify for you. - Q: "What spark plugs do I need for my car?"
A: Again, it depends on the exact engine and your modifications. We're happy to consult ahead of your appointment or at the beginning of your e-mail/remote tune process. - Q: "How long is my deposit for a dyno tuning session valid?"
A: Deposits are valid up to six (6) months from the date they are placed. - Q: "How many revisions does an e-mail tune take to complete?"
A: That's a question that's impossible to answer, as every car is different. Cars using composite fuel tables (Honda K-Series car using speed density fueling, for example) sometimes take a handful more revisions due to tuning all fuel tables individually. A good estimation we toss out is 10-20 revisions, depending on the complexity of the setup, the preparedness of the car, and the number of fuels we're tuning with, though. - Q: "I like the idea of email tuning, but really want dyno numbers. Can you tune my car on a dyno remotely?"
A: Of course! It's a very popular option. You'd first purchase our "Live Remote Tuning Session" service (link can be provided), then you'll coordinate a time slot with us and your local dyno facility for a block of time to complete the tuning session. You'll need a laptop to connect to your car during the session, a strong internet connection, and preferably an internet connection for the computer that controls the dyno (so the plots can be seen after each run without delay). This service works best when renting time from a facility that uses a DynaPack, but any dyno can be used. - Q: "Will you install my turbo kit? Build my engine? Install my clutch?"
A: As of right now, we are not taking on installation work. This may change in the future, but currently we are focused on tuning services and solutions exclusively. - Q: "How far are in advance you booking for a dyno tuning sessions"
A: It depends on the time of the year, but we typically operate on a 2-4 week lead time on scheduling. Please call the shop at (717) 218-8227 for the most up-to-date scheduling availability. - Q: "How much power do I make on my e-tune?"
A: A lot of 'tuners' like to use the "Virtual Dyno" software to provide power approximations for e-mail tuning services. We've found this software to be easily manipulated and wildly inaccurate in most cases. For that reason, we no longer use the "Virtual Dyno", nor do we recommend putting much faith in it. If you're curious about a power figure, visit a dyno and do some runs. Keep in mind that all dynamometers read differently, and they are natively JUST tuning tools, nothing more. Don't bench-race dyno numbers from different cars on different machines. - Q: "My friend's car has the same mods I do but makes 6whp more than mine did... Why?"
A: This is something that comes up a lot, especially in the Honda Civic/Accord circles. We often get asked why a certain car makes 5-10whp more or less than a comparable car with the same (or very similar modifications). These questions are usually asked by owners of cars that make 200-300whp, where the difference of "5whp" is somehow viewed as a big deal. Every. Car. Is. Different. The health of the engine, the quality of the fuel, the weather during testing between the two cars, etc are among a long list of possible variables as to why there's a small difference in output between vehicles. The dyno is a tuning tool; it is not meant to be the measuring stick for which you bench race how fast your car is against another (that's what racing is for). The only thing that matters during a dyno session is whether or not the tuner is using that tool to make the car run better than it did before, safely. - Q: "Your prices are higher than some others that offer the same services... Why?"
A: “The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten.”- Benjamin Franklin. We offer a premium service at a reasonable rate. With over a decade of tuning experience with the platforms we support, fast response rates, and proven results, comes the ability to command the pricing structure we do. Like most things in life, you get what you pay for. - Q: "Do you offer 'free' retunes after I've made changes to the car? Why not?!"
A: 'If you're good at something, never do it for free,' right? Do you go to a barber, get a haircut, then return in a month with longer hair asking for him to cut your hair for for free since it grew out longer? - Q: "What does the "priority" option on your e-mail tuning service mean?"
A: The "priority" option exists as an upgrade that essentially moves your e-tune service to the top of the list during the time of day revisions occur. This usually results in faster replies for revisions. The standard service is usually pretty quick, though.