I suggest you get the trans tuning option, you won't regret it. I wasn't happy with it with just the normal tune, but with my custom tune (that I am still tweaking).

What didn't you like? The harsh shifting? If that is the case you can adjust via the TM settings, it's really worth it to be honest. It makes the truck drive like a completely different vehicle.

 

Not sure what this means? Seems to be contradictory . . .

I've just now heard about these Superchip thingies and trying to figure out what it's all about. Certainly I am keen to improve my mileage numbers, and I am not pleased with the shift characteristics of my ride. The power of this engine seems somewhat wasted. But it isn't easy to follow this discussion. As someone unfamiliar with the Superchip, I can't decipher the code of the discussion.

I can't distinguish between the "91, 87, 93" references that refer to the octane of the gas being used, and the setting of this Superchip thing being discussed.

Wondering where I can go to read a "primer" on Superchips?

 

91, 87, and 93 refer to tunes that come on the programmer. There are 5 tunes that come on the programmer. The 3 octane tunes, a tow tune, and a mileage saver tune (don't believe the name). The numbers refers to the fuel octane that is needed to run that particular tune. I wouldn't count on the tuner to increase you MPG's, I haven't seen any difference, it always sucks. The Superchips schedule will change your transmission shift points (for the better!) on each of the tunes, simply load up a tune and it's done. It makes a big difference.

This is where it can get confusing.
All of the User Transmission shift scheduling is done after you purchase the transmission tuning option. That you can purchase for an additional $40 from Superchips after you've bought the tuner already. With that there are a few additional setting to change, but this is pretty much the 'basics'.

 

OK, I'm starting to get the drift now. Disappointing to hear the mileage doesn't improve. I'm getting the impression that the benefits might be (1) improving the somewhat sluggish performance of stock, and (2) improving performance with a lower octane fuel. I can see the advantage in improving passing power since I live in a 2-lane world (not a 4-lane environment).

 

if I remember right, you just need to ensure none of the upshifts cross.

 

A complete newbie here.....and you guys seem very knowledgable....

What does these superchips do, as far as our vehicles are concerned? Is everything done automatically?

 

I could feel the increase over stock on both tunes, but couldnt feel a differance between the 87 and 91tunes.

 

Superchips is a "tuner", more specifically, it is a handheld programmer for the trucks pcm (powertrain control module). It plugs into the OBDII port and communicates with the trucks computer. It has different levels of tunes depending on your preference. These trucks are programmed to run a certain way from the factory and this factory "program" is designed to maximize mileage over performance. The superchips will "re-tune" the truck and also has canned transmission changes (you can also get the add-on transmission package at an extra cost that lets you have complete control over the shift schedule). Basically, this tuner (or any tuner) is the only way you can get more power out of computer controlled engines and still remain smog legal. it does this by advancing or retarding the timing and also adjusting the shift points, all through a program.

 

Wow, that's cool......Does everybody have to purchase one, or can two dodge rams use the same programmer?

 

they are vin locked, so no. unless you both have the same PCM p/n but thats rare.