Today more than ever, a vast number of options exist for those looking to enhance their truck’s level of operational efficiency. Unfortunately, doing so often involves some form of mechanical modification, which typically commands an excess expenditure of time, money, and effort.
However, for those looking to bypass much of this hassle and wrangling under the hood, the use of a performance tuner can be just what the doctor ordered. Tuners are available for trucks equipped with gasoline and diesel engines and offer a substantial number of benefits to consumers.
What is a Performance Tuner?
A tuner is most simply described as an electrical component or interface that can be integrated into a truck powertrain communications system in a bid to increase engine efficiency. This increase in efficiency can take many forms. Some tuners seek to increase fuel economy, while others are intended to boost horsepower.
The term “tuner” is actually derived from the word tune, which is used to describe the pre-programmed parameters off of which modern engines are designed to operate. Therefore, a tuner is any piece of equipment that is capable of altering or completely replacing these parameters.
How Does A Tuner Do Its Job?
Every modern production vehicle on the road today is electronically controlled through the use of various computer modules and sensors. The most significant of these modules is your vehicle’s powertrain control module (PCM).
A vehicle’s PCM comes pre-programmed from the manufacturer with a set of operating parameters. These parameters allow the PCM to interpret data that it receives from numerous sensors which monitor engine and transmission performance. Once this information is interpreted, these same parameters make it possible for the PCM to rationalize the level of response which is required to enable the precise operation of various powertrain components.
For example, when determining appropriate fuel delivery, a vehicle’s PCM will monitor data received from an engine’s mass airflow sensor, coolant temperature sensor, manifold absolute pressure sensor, throttle position sensor, crankshaft position sensor, and oxygen sensors.
This information is received by the PCM and entered into several equations that are pre-programmed based upon the previously mentioned parameters. The values which are rendered as a result of these equations are used by the PCM to determine fuel injector pulse width.
Tuners install new functional parameters for which engine operation will be based. The reason that tuners can create such immense gains in horsepower and gas mileage in a matter of only minutes is because most factory tunes do not make these particular areas of performance a priority. Due to ever stringent emissions standards, most vehicles do not operate to their utmost level of efficiency because of the need to keep smog and pollutant output to a minimum.
Tuners unlock the true potential of a vehicle’s powertrain by programming more aggressive parameters into the PCM. While the PCM still receives the same input from an engine's sensors, it simply equates this data differently and commands a different degree of output in response.
The exact degree of response which the PCM demands from the components which it controls depends upon the type of tune that has been entered. Some tunes are written in a bid to increase gas mileage, in which case various areas of engine operation will be strategically geared for fuel efficiency. Other tunes, however, are written in a bid to squeeze every bit of performance potential from an engine. In this case, air/fuel ratios will be enhanced to maximize horsepower and torque.
The use of a tuner can also be of immense value when installed on a truck that has been on the receiving end of performance modifications. Maximum gains can be rendered from the installation of upgraded aftermarket components such as cold air intakes, injectors, throttle bodies, intake manifolds, and exhaust systems with the quick upload of a new tune.
Various Tuner Types
When an individual speaks of the use of a tuner, they are describing, in a broad sense, the use of a device for modifying powertrain control module (PCM) communications. Tuners actually come in several different forms, each accomplishing the task at hand in a slightly different manner.
The following are the most common forms of tuners, which are available to consumers for purchase.
Performance Programmers
A performance programmer offers users the ability to choose from various pre-loaded tunes for their truck, and in many cases, access a custom tuning menu as well. Programmers come in several varieties and many include a digital monitor by which various menu screens can be accessed. As an added benefit, programs of this nature also typically allow their users to monitor live-streaming data and access OBD-II trouble code menus.
Performance programmers generally over-write your PCM’s existing tune in favor of the tune which you have selected. However, the bulk of modern programmers also allow you to store your vehicle’s stock tune for easy re-installation at a later date. Another advantage of programmers is that they often allow consumers to toggle between various modes. When this is the case, switching from towing to fuel economy mode is as simple as making a selection from the provided menu.
DiabloSport Trinity T2 EX
The DiabloSport Trinity T2 EX offers consumers next-level versatility and functionality. This high-power programmer features a 5” full-color, high-definition touch screen from which users can monitor data in real-time. The Trinity T2 EX comes pre-programmed with fuel mileage, towing, daily driving, and high-performance tuning modes and is also compatible with custom tunes.
Handheld Tuners
Handheld tuners can be found at nearly any price point, with premium models typically featuring similar tuning capabilities as those offered by more inclusive programmers though in a handheld form. The bulk of today’s handheld tuners allow users to select from several different tuning functions by simply clicking on the mode that satisfies their performance needs.
When searching for a handheld tuner, it is wise to do your research, as features often vary significantly from one product to the next. Some handheld tuners accept the entry of custom tunes, while others only allow the use of those which are offered by the tuner’s manufacturer or an accepted third party vendor. Likewise, some handheld tuners are capable of displaying live-streaming data, yet others do not offer this capability.
Superchips Flashpaq
The Superchips Flashpaq puts a full range of tuning capabilities in the palm of your hand. This handheld tuner features a 2.8” color display and a high-speed processor that minimizes upload times. Flashpaq tuners allow consumers to select between mileage, towing, daily driving, and performance tuning modes. This tuner also features an OBD-II access menu where users can view and clear fault codes.
Plug and Play
If you would like to enhance your truck’s performance but are not keen on the prospect of inputting or reviewing data yourself, then a plug and play tuner is what you have been looking for. Plug and play tuners are generally ordered for a specific application. Simply select your truck’s make and model, choose a tuner that is geared to your specific needs, and install the device as directed.
Plug and play tuners can be purchased for both diesel and gas trucks, with an extensive array of performance-based options available to choose from. A number of the latest tuners within this category now include compatible dash monitors, which allow users to quickly and easily view engine performance-related data on the fly.
Banks Derringer Series
The Derringer Series of tuners by Banks is sure to bring out the best in your truck, no matter your brand of choice. Within the Derringer line, diesel performance tuners are offered for Cummins turbo-diesel equipped Dodge Rams, Duramax equipped GMC Sierras/Chevy Silverados, and Powerstroke equipped Heavy-Duty series Ford trucks. Additionally, Derringer tuners are available for Ecoboost Ford F-150’s as well. These tuners feature 6 individual performance modes and offer data logging capabilities through the use of an included micro-SD card.