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DP controllers are basically an Electronic Jet Kit. Like carb jet kits in the past, the more you modify, the more responsibility you take in getting your fuel curve right. Most people can easily tune a vehicle from stock to stage 1 modifications. DP controllers give you this ability at the touch of a button instead of trying to understand a computer software program. Don't be afraid to make some changes and then go for a ride to try them out. Just be sure to record your settings so you can easily revert back if needed.
WHERE TO START
- START BY GOING ON A TEST RIDE!! BE SURE TO FULLY WARM UP YOUR VEHICLE
DP controllers come with recommended settings for typical stage 1 modifications which means an air filter and exhaust system change. For the majority of riders the controller is a complete Plug N Play unit. Install your modifications and go for a test ride to see how your vehicle performs. Be sure to properly warm up your vehicle before attempting to make tuning adjustments.
- WHAT TO LOOK FOR?
Take note of any bogs, surging, popping, or loss of power. Try to duplicate the problem a couple of times and recognize the steps you are performing to cause the problem. Relate the problem to the general phases of a drive cycle. Are you just cruising, trying to accelerate, or full throttle to feel the power?
- ADJUST A MODE AND CHECK THE RESULTS
If you have isolated a problem and related it to a phase of the drive cycle then try adjusting the mode richer or leaner to see if you can make the problem better or worse. Some conditions can be caused by being either rich or lean so it is hard to generalize this for tuning advice.
- FINAL NOTE: REMEMBER AN EFI CONTROLLER ONLY ADJUSTS FUEL, IT'S NOT A FIX FOR ALL THE PROBLEMS
Fueling can be a band-aid for a number of problems and EFI controllers are easily the first thing to blame when a vehicle is not running right. Remember all DP controllers are piggy-back controllers meaning it is only making adjustments on top of the stock ECU map. If another problem exists this may be affecting the stock map and causing your tuning problems.
TOP TUNING RECOMMENDATION - INSTALL AN AFR GAUGE
The days of Dyno dependency are over. AFR data viewing, in real driving situations, is the new standard.
Check out the SAFR Diagnostic Tool offered from Dobeck Performance
Easily installed on most motorcycles, ATVs and UTVs the SAFR provides a simple analog gauge with a wideband O2 system that displays the vehicle's air / fuel ratio (AFR) values and allows riders to fully understand how their vehicle is running. The SAFR is a diagnostic tool which ensures the vehicle is running at optimum levels on the street or in the dirt. It is not intended to be a permanent installation. The unit is fully compatible with all vehicles.
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