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Considering purchasing a Haltech E6GM. newbie to this, but seems to be cheaper in the long run than buying prom equip etc..does anyone have any input on this topic. pros or cons please need all.
How much is the Haltech going for now? If you already have a laptop or PC you plan to use (which you'll need for the Haltech too), then, if memory serves right, you won't spend much more for the hardware to burn your own proms. I always thought the GM ECM route seemed cheaper in the long run since all you would need for another vehicle is, well, a couple extra proms maybe. Of course, I planned in the beginning to be "playing" with more than one type of car/ECM so maybe it just seems better for me. I was very close to buying a Haltech a few years ago but went the GM route instead and don't regret it a bit. There are some that say it's more versatile in one unit which may be true to some extent (i.e. wanting to supercharge or something) but if you learn enough about what can be done with the GM ECM you'll find it's a lot more versatile than some think. Good luck no matter what you choose to do! -Jeff
My $.02 after lots of research on aftermarket ECMs including Haltech. None have an error routine and codes like the GM computers. None offer the flexibility of GM computers, and many including the Haltech are missing key functions like a knock sensor.
It is cheaper to burn your own, and if your stock computer wont work for your app, I say its better to go with a new GM.
you have an '870 and want a better setup? Go to the '165 and use an ARAP base. Maxing the MAF, go to a '730. Running boost and need more MAP resolution, go to the '749.
Now if you want to go to a wideband system, ok but that's several grand and definitely not cheaper.
I spent a lot of time and effort on researching the available ECMs to replace mine, Haltech was one of them. I have opted to go with the mods for the GM. None of the after markets that I've fiddled with have the available learning modes and required I/O of the GM. The Haltech was going to run me about $700 plus. The burner will run you $150, eraser $40 some sort of scanning device any were from used to new lets just say $300 max. Thats cheaper than the Haltech. And once you have the gear you can keep burning on anything you want.
$300 for a scanner is high. Craigs is freeware for those who arent scared of dos. Get a cable from AKM and run Datamaster if you want a windows scanner/logger. Still less than $300 and al together, way less than any aftermarket ECM. Need something to write the chips too. Winbin will work for free or tunercat is great for like $99. best thing is if you do a mod which requires a new comp, you need a new blank chip(s), new ECU (go my '730 for $50 from a junkyard) and a new definition file for your BIN editor. My swap to a 730 was under $100.
I'm working on a twin turbo ZR1 project (see the ZR1 forum) and wondering if someone can help out reprogramming the factory ECM to support a pair of 50 lb injectors which I believe is the biggest I can get (or need) that are the correct impedance.
I know Grahm, and Jeal were involved in a Cerv III project that had a 650 HP calibration on an LT5, but I can't seem to get the code for it or find the specifics on what injectors they used.
my thoughts are that the factory ECM on the ZR1 already has the features I want and the hassle of upgrading to an aftermarket computer are not worth it IF I can make the factory ecm work.
I believe you would need to be an 85-88 to be able to just remove your computer and replace with that one. Since I had a 91' I have to rewire the computer and do a pin-out to match,but they do sell harness to adapt so it would be easier.
You loose function of you gas mileage unless you get jumper harness. I think my CCM is causing me my A/C problems. Everything else seems to be OK. Easy to operate but make sure you get on dyno with Wide band sensor to make sure you don't run too lean like I did.
I just got off the phone with Geoff Jeal. He is doing my prorotype P2 ZR motor, has all the parts and a donor motor with all the brackets wireing etc so its a go. He is trying to restart his shop which was difficult to do while he was in China. Next time we talk I will try to remember to ask him about the twin turbo calibration. When the motor comes I hope to fly him to Atlanta to help do the install and get it running. If so it will probably be possible to get some assistance/advice from him while he is here.