Remapping ECU

[Anonymous]

There appears to be a groundswell of interest in obtaining HP & torque gains from both petrol & diesel
engines by re-mapping the ECU. Some "Chip" manufacturers claim  substantial increases in this respect. I am attracted to this relatively simple method
of gaining power to my 250TDI but am concerned that
such substantial gains must inflict higher loading on engine/transmission components that will erode the designed engineering safety margins of the car & overstress & shorten its life.
What is the considered opinion on this subject please?


(Edited by ernest sidesman at 10:08 pm on July 27, 2001)

 

[Andy]

Hullo Ernest

From the out set I must say I have had minimal experience with the "chip"modifications to ECU'S or even engine modifications. So I couldn't comment on
manufacturers or who to go to. But what I can say that your c250 turbo diesel. Will more than cope with any modification you decide to make to it. MB tend to make ther engines so they will with stand immense stresses over and aboard the normal day to day use. The turbo diesel engine has various modifications to it. Against the normally aspirated engine(no-turbo)Things like lagrger crank shaft journals,extra oil jets to the crank, the piston crowns thicker etc. So I doubt there is much you could obtain that will cause you a problem.
The gear box should be up to it as well. Long as the vehicle is not being raced around  I see no problem which would surface, whether the engine is modified  or not.
Good luck with your search.

Regards
Andy@www.mercedesservicing.com

ps. A compotent company specialising in these types of modifications should be able to advise if any gear box or engine modifications are required.

 

[Anonymous]

Grateful thanks Andy, I appreciate your frankness.I have trawled various forums around the Net & have obtained absolutely no information on the subject,although one or two people are asking similar questions.
It is very re-assuring to learn that it is a beefy engine that will withstand some tuning & the gearbox should be able to cope as well. I had no intention of having it chipped without  ascertaining that it was safe to do so.
I will now start researching the *chip* companies.
Many thanks.

 

[Neil Eglintine]

Chipping often works because the original set up is tuned to produce particular effects like good mpg at 56mph, good noise emissions, good exhaust emissions. These settings are not always the same as those that produce maximum power, or good driveability.

Because of this, the effects on the durability of the engine will be minimal. The same is not always true of raising the boost pressure on turbos, however.

 

[Anonymous]

Thats interesting Neil, I hadnt considered boost pressure on turbos although it is absolutely logical.It is something else to consider . I also take your point concerning the optimising of mpg & emissions etc that could be altered in the search for power.I shall tread even more warily, thank you

 

[Dave B]

Ernest,

I run a C250td and have also considered the chipping route to improved drivability and economy.   To date I've not been brave enough to follow this up.  

I was wondering if you've undertaken the modifications you spoke of and if so what were the results/costs etc. ?

Dave B

 

[simon]

HelloDave,
                No,I havent made up my mind yet, I am checking out turbo boost pressures/increases, which I recall Neil suggested that if radical might cause problems.I have looked at German chips & remain unconvinced  & am currently going to visit a nearby Superchips dealer who has offered to give me a detailed explanation of what I can expect & what would actially be done to my engine/ECU/Turbo.
Ernest.

(Edited by Ernest Sidesman at 8:03 pm on Sep. 5, 2001)