Factory ECM tuning takes many individual factors into consideration that we often don't think about. From long term reliability, fuel economy, emissions compliance, power production and drivability, manufacturers take note of every driving style when programming your truck. While noble, it usually also leaves a lot of performance back in the garage. Like most enthusiasts though, the programmers at SCT also believe that anything made can be made better. From day one, as soon as the first two cars hit the cobblestone at the turn of the century, we had to make them faster. With newer computer driven vehicles however, the days of just slapping parts have faded into history.
There are so many parameters that need to be adjusted when even adding something simple like a cold air intake, that you need to be an electrical guru and software expert to sort things out. Fortunately, SCT is that group. To make things less complicated for you, they provide an elegant little black box that gives you the versatility to have multiple programming maps available at your fingertips. Long drive coming up and you want to save fuel? Choose an economy-based map and keep some of your hard-earned money. Will Kyle next door refuse to quit revving his lawn mower at you? Remind him why the dinosaurs went extinct with a more aggressive tuning map. Or even something as practical as "new job, need to tow things" and you don't want to buy a bigger truck? A proper towing-based map will line up your powerband exactly where you need it.
But the applications aren't limited to just power addition. If you make major mechanical changes, such as gear ratio changes or different tire sizes, the computer doesn't know unless you tell it so. That's where the BDX comes in. Adjust your speedometer with a couple clicks, so you can stay informed, and stay speed limit legal. Another thing to consider as well, is that the regeneration cycles don't always line up effectively for your daily drive, or other commutes. Take control of that as well and run a regenerate cycle when it properly suits your schedule.
Need to monitor specific values like temperatures, voltage, boost, etc.? With the SCT's display, you can have all the critical information you want/need right at your fingertips. Granted, not all manufacturers are as generous as others when it comes to what programming or values you can edit, so you'll want to reach out to verify what the BDX programmer can do for your truck.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
- 2013+ Cummins applications will require a separate unlock cable to be purchased to unlock the ECM before tuning can be accomplished.
- This programmer will not delete installed emissions controls. SCT adheres to the Clean Air Act, and custom tuners are also required to meet those standards.