Hey all,

Finally going for the Hypertech programmer for my '03 QC Hemi this weekend.

How much of a difference should I get in terms of HP/torque gain and just general "seat o' the pants" increase after installing it? I noticed after installing my Magnaflow cat-backs, K&N air filter, and Airraid CAI that things actually got a little sluggish in terms of power (which I expected and knew about then) -- it just took longer than I planned to finally get the programmer. I've learned that the computer is either leaning the mixture out or otherwise compensating for the changes in the intake/exhaust and that's exactly what the programmer will correct.

I plan on going with the 91 octane version, I usually run 89 now. I'm hoping that nice Hemi punch will come back and then some.

Comments? Advice?

 

I'm not an expert, but I read that when you had installed your CAI it would've been a good idea to disconnect the negative connection on your battery so the computer could recalibrate the changes. You might want to give that a try.

Here is a link to the article.

http://www.hemitruckclub.com/afemark.htm

 

Hemi Chris, there must be something wrong with the install or something. How can your truck get more sluggish with those items?

 

Nah, there's nothing wrong with the install. How could you possibly install an air filter and CAI wrong? [8D]

Seriously, from what I have learned here, there's a known issue with a loss of low-end torque (a very minor loss, mind you) when modifying the exhaust and intake on the (gen3) Hemi's. The engine with stock airbox, filter and exhaust is tuned quite well at the factory to give you that awesome 345HP and nice torque curve. The thing is, if you want to hop it up even further, using those kinds of upgrades, the computer has to be programmed properly to accomodate them. Otherwise, it's going to think there's something wrong and compensate in the other direction, that is, by leaning out the mixture, retarding the timing, and possibly other changes. You actually lose some power.

It's a very subtle change, but that's exactly why Hypertech and other companies make these programmers. You can even choose to tune them to take advantage of higher octane, which otherwise does absolutely nothing for the 5.7's performance.

If I am completely wrong in this, SOMEONE PLEASE TELL ME. Again, this is what I have learned here, at the Dodge Forum, and that's how I learned you need to get a programmer if you mod those things. You don't *have* to, and many drivers wouldn't even notice they actually lost power. But I want to optimize things so I'm going with the Hypertech.

That's also why I'm fishing for some feedback from anyone who's gone the same route I have.

Oh, and BTW, homer, that trick doesn't do a damned thing. Tried it, makes no difference. The computer can't "learn" to reprogram itself. That's what you need a programmer for! I think that "pull the battery terminal" thing is just a Mopar urban legend!

 

Chris: Did you read what I posted?

Listen. It makes sense. A car computer or any computer needs to adjust to changes. If a change is made to such a delicate (engines are kind of delicate...their thinking is) then a change needs to be made on their wiring. Look at it this way. If you were a computer and someone programmed a new program into you....wouldn't you want to start from the beginning of the program to absorb the new programs?

I know I am getting philosophical and technical, but think about it

 

Yeah, see above.

 

What is the Matrix?

 

Uh, dude, what the hell are you talking about?

No offense, but I'm looking for serious responses only. Thanks anyway.

 

Ive been wondering if its worth the money...

 

I'll let you know after I get the programmer, HemiMan.