Just installed my Hypertech Power Programmer III today. I have only used it in the past to adjust for my tire size. I finally put in my 180 degree t-stat today, so it was time to do the performance programming. I selected the 91 octane setting, and went for a test drive.

And the results are: [sm=gears.gif] [sm=icon_rock.gif]

That little programmer is awesome. Definetly one of the best mods I have done.
Well worth the money. I can really feel the improvement in the 2500-3500 rpm range.

 

I have the PP3 with my ram and it is amazing how much of a difference it truly makes. So you never tried it prior to that with out the thermostat? I was thinking getting the thermostat but wasn't quite sure if that would be any more of a diff.

 

No, for a couple of reasons. First, Hypertech is pretty insistant that you run the programmer with a 180 t-stat. Not sure if there is any logic behind that, or if they are just trying to sell more or their brand of 180 t-stats.
Second, I planned to do a 180 t-stat anyway, regardless of the programmer, to help with my trans temps. So, I figured if it did result in better performance with the 180, I would rather feel that performance all at once, rather then in stages as I migrated from a 195 to a 180.
Looking back now, it would have been a good test to see if there was any difference between the 195 with the PPIII, and the 180 with the PPIII.

FYI, changing the thermostat is kinda a pain in the butt. Not difficult, just hard to get access to, escpcially to clean the intake side gasket surface.

 

Where did you buy the programmer and what did it do to your MPG?

thx

 

I bought it on e-Bay new (don't buy used, they code to the first vehicle installed on) and I just programmed it last night, so I won't know what the impact on mpg is for a while.

 

good tip I didnt know you could not buy a used one thx


I'll look forward to hearing the MPG

Sounds like a good thing to do

 

You can buy a used one, but it just needs to have been set back to stock before it can be used on another vehicle (that is what my manula says). If it was not, it will never work correctly.

I changed mine to the 87/89 setting yesterday, and do not feel any difference from the high octane setting. In fact, the chart that comes with the programmer shows the dyno results for a '01 5.2, and it has higher low end torque with 89 setting then it does with 91 octane setting. Top end is higher with 91. I am going to run it on this for awhile since it is cheaper, and I need to tow this weekend (I had a little pinging under load with the high octane setting).

 

the 180 deg t-stat is to run the head 15 deg cooler. cooler head temps help with more power. I think you can send a used programmer back to hypertech and have it re-set so you can re-install it in another truck. anyone interested in a used on should check 1st.

Did you cut off the "Front" tab on the T-stat housing? that helps with removal and installation w/o having to pull appart the motor but your still stuck with cleaning the manifold side. I found if you use the dodge gasket it ends up being easier to clean and install the new one when compared to the silicone gasket maker stuff... i've tried both.

 

No, the "Front" tab wasn't really a problem. If you tilt the housing, it clears fine and comes right out.

 

huh, they must have changed the alt/ac bracket then... I remember on my 5.2 jeep motor that it wouldnt come out and had to cut the tab off so it would w/o having to tear it apart...