I'm aiming at creating a thread with information about all the possible ECU Tuning options. Be it a flash like MTH to a piggy-back like UNIchip. A thread where someone can look for info about the different software available. With pros and cons. IDK much about tuning for the MINI so I could use your help as I'm currently looking to do software and JCW injectors. I guess my question for now is, my total planned mods are 19% pulley, CAI, Header, Exhaust, Injectors, Software, and MAYBE the DFIC. What would the best solution be for software given my planned mods. I want something that I can tune to these mods and not just the usual 19% pulley, injectors and software. I keep reading that GIAC is great for this setup but is it great for the rest of the mods. I like the thought of the UNIchip but I'm unsure with the price. MTH is out of the question because it's much more expensive than it first was and the turn-around time is ridiculous from what I hear. Is there anything out there that me, the user, can tune on a dyno?

 

Apexi AFC or SAFC

 

Motec

 

There may be other arguments why not to go with Unichip or MTH but I don't think you should discard the Unichip or the MTH from purely a price perspective.

We have similar mods (see sig) and plan on a doing an ECU remap. Both the MTH and UNICHIP seem to offer the most "custom tune" by working with the vendor. The others under a $1,000.00 - GIAC, SHARK, MiniPowerProgram, EVOTECH seem to offer a general ecu upgrade all centered around the pulley upgrade. All of these seem to have improved upon the cars performance HOWEVER the problem lies in that you, like myself and others - always want to know that the ecu upgrade is maximizing all of our other MOD efforts. From what I have learned so far the only software that seems to do so or at least allludes to it is MTH and Unichip.

PS - Apparently there is software out there that is 100% programable but runs in the 1,000 of dollars and for that reason have not even looked in to them.

 

The $735 tag on the UNIchip is a bit discouraging but I can have it dyno tuned to my car not too far from my house. If I can pick up a used UNIchip I think thats the route I'm taking. Too bad you can't lift the speed limiter or the redline as with the UNIchip for audi/vw/porsche.

Where can I find info on the Motec?

S-AFC only controls the Air Flow... I want something that can control more parameters.

 

We have a Cobb AccessPort ECU Programmer for the Subaru. It's basically a software and map delivery system. The stock maps are free from Cobb, but what's really cool is that custom maps can be made either by the end user (StreeTuner) or a professional tuner (ProTuner). Using a laptop and logging software like Tari, you can do 2nd or 3rd gear pulls and datalog. Send the files to a tuner and they can adjust a map for your mods. 'e-tune'. This is better than a dyno alone as it gives a snapshot under load and with real-world conditions.

Cobb has worked with Nissan directly to release one for the 350Z and with Mitsu for the EVO. Perhaps something similar for the Mini would be nice, either from Cobb or another vendor.

 

I had a Cobb AP as well, it is a very nice way to get a tune. I thought the MTH was similar, but requires a laptop instead.

There's always the hardcore DIY solution:
http://www.megasquirt.info

Completely programmable, adaptable, etc. Except you'll have to figure out how to hook it all up and get it working. Some people like that kind of thing.