Tuning an engine with an electronic fuel injection (EFI) system is a complex process that requires a certain level of expertise. For those who are new to the process, it can be intimidating. However, with the right knowledge and tools, you can easily tune your engine for optimal performance. Most older vehicles with non-electronic ignition must be adjusted every 10,000 to 12,000 miles or every year, whichever comes first.
Newer cars with electronic ignition and fuel injection systems are expected to travel 25,000 to 100,000 miles without requiring major tune-up. The best way to do this is to use a steady-state retention pattern on the dynamometer and keep the engine at specific RPM. Then charge the motor where you want to tune and record instant power readings. Expert tuning often involves using a set of tools to massage the motor and its various controls so that they work well together. People tune their cars for a lot of reasons, not just for absolute performance.
Adjusting the memory of your project opens the way to better fuel economy, makes it easier to change the engine for a new chassis and even unlocks functions that were previously hidden from owners. As the founder and senior instructor of EFI University in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, Ben Strader manages the quality and flow of information taught in the EFI-101 and EFI Advanced classes. EFI University offers several practical opportunities to learn the basics of electronic fuel injection engine tuning, as well as some advanced-level classes to better understand the engine design process and the concepts of turbocharging. Okay, tuning the engine is a little more complicated than Jesse and Vince's exchange in Fast and Furious, but for many it's one of the only representations of the art of tuning in pop culture. Here are four useful tips for dealing with situations that often attract attention when adjusting an EFI system:
- Check Ignition Timing: Whether you are adjusting an engine on an engine dynamometer or on a chassis dynamometer, you should always ensure that it is set to the proper ignition time.
- Check Fuel Pressure: Make sure that your fuel pressure is set correctly before making any adjustments. This will ensure that your engine is getting enough fuel for optimal performance.
- Check Air/Fuel Ratio: The air/fuel ratio should be checked regularly when tuning an EFI system.
This will help you determine if your engine is running too lean or too rich.
- Check Spark Plugs: Spark plugs should be checked regularly when tuning an EFI system. This will help you determine if your spark plugs are firing correctly.
But with some knowledge and guidance from experts like Ben Strader at EFI University, you can easily optimize your engine's performance. To get started, make sure to check your ignition timing, fuel pressure, air/fuel ratio, and spark plugs regularly. With these tips in mind, you'll be able to get your car running at its best in no time!.
