All...TGIF,

So what's the better move? I've been planning on the Shark Injector for the MCS that I have. However recently I talked to a really good shop in my area and they suggested the GIAC Re-FLASH.

Their experience is only with the GIAC Software when it comes to the MINIs...so they really couldn't say which was better, only what they've worked with.

How about you all out there? Now before you answer I want you to keep in mind the ease of use I'm looking for here. I'd rather not buy a whole new ECU or go the Unichip route (i don't like Unichip).

So can anyone out there comment on the GIAC program or the Shark Injecto program for the MINI Cooper S.

Thanks,

 

It made almost no difference, and that difference was smoothness of throttle response.

But no real power diff.

For me at least, it was way overpriced for what it delivered.

So I'd not recommend the Shark, period.

Heard good things about GIAC, and of course, MTH.

I've had Webb/Powerchip (good) on my 2003 (after abandoning the Shark), and Unichip on my 2006 (also good, but expensive, once it's finally tuned - took three sessions).

 

Is your Unichip a "Q" series? So far I'v seen som pretty good result with the new box.

The Shark is what it is, heard the same, it's smoother & for some lessens the flat spot.

Can't speak for GIAC. MTH is pretty solid & good price.

 

Yes.

 

I have the Shark on my 04 MCS with a 15% pully and CAI.
It was on the car when I bought it so I can't compare before and after, but the car is very smooth and I don't have any of the software issues I have seen here on NAM (yo-yo, flat spot, etc).

I am happy because I did not have to tune the car.

However, if I go M62 (which I hope to do as soon as the kit is out) I expect to get whatever software is sold with the kit. This is where I expect to get the real performance from.

 

The cool thing about the Shark is that you can simply pull it out of the OBD II connector when you go in for MINI warranty service.

It'd be interesting to see what you think if you removed it and then saw how the car runs sans Shark.

 

Thanks for all the feedback fellas...its been helpful.

 

Or............. I went with the JCW factory software upgrade, no warrenty issues and my dealer only charged $100! GIAC would be my second choice, depends on your circumstances.

 

While I have no direct experience with SHARK, my research indicates that the shark is the best from an install/design concept beating all others hands down from this perspective ONLY. Performance wise its seems to be on the bottom of the list - doing the least for performance.

On th eother hand I do have experience with GIAC - see my thread "ecu GIAC upgrade. in sum, I am very pleased with ALL aspects of the product.

 

blutnk007,

If you have any specific questions about the GIAC flash, don't hesitate to give us a call. Eric helped develop the flash, so he should be able to answer all your questions.

215-739-8800

 

There continues to be a lot of confusion on which is truly the best ECU upgrade out there. I have yet to see a clear, concise choice emerge. Everyone seems to have a different opinion on this subject.

Like you, I've been searching for the easiest one that I can do myself (ONCE), but has the best power gains, and improved smoothness. I don't have the time or money for a custom tune at some shop hundreds of miles away.

 

SOLUTION...JCW factory software upgrade

 

 

where can I buy the JCW Software Upgrade? And will it be okay being that I don't have the JCW cylinder head, supercharger, and all that extra STUFF?

 

Get the flash a the dealer if they'll do it. Cost is $125. I'm not worried about the difference in the head and the SC is the same. I'll be doing injectors next.

 

This is the best bang for the buck but some dealers won't do it. The only real difference between your mods & mine are 380s & my original dealer would not do it. This was sometime ago.

 

Did you guys notice a difference with the JCW flash?

 

Nothing earthshaking...I didn't have any hesitation issues or noticable flat spots to begin with though. The exhaust, plugs, wires and flash were all done within a coule weeks of each other and once all done, the thing I did notice at the local track was that 350z's and Mustang GT's (2nd to last generation) couldn't pull on me in straights.

 

has anyone dynoed their MCS plus JCW software? It would be interesting to see how it affects the car. A/F ratio?

 

There are several that seem to do the job pretty good. Install is a factor Easiest install ? GIAC -go to distributor, they upload in 20 mins, you pay, you drive off.

 

I've been meaning get to a dyno just for hell of it. I'll probably look to go to DynoComp in Scottsdale sometime soon after the first of the year...unless anyone has any other reccomendations in the Phoenix area...

 

Back when I was looking into this Bahamabart was a huge help and I had all intensions on going with the GIAC as I had some hesitations with all the used "Unichips" for sale, but unlike in the USA the support on the GIAC up here was just not as comprehensive as yours, if the dealer reflashed my ECU I had to pay full shot again to get the GIAC back on . As I mentioned Bahamabart and I had numerous discussions and found very similiar results between between the GIAC and JCW upgrade ( the engine mods I have are listed in my sig I DO NOT have the JCW head work or the injectors, but I'm thinking of getting the injectors). What I mean by similar results is a "feel" of overall smoother running through the revs tieing in the mods with a stronger pull in the higher RPM's, although nothing is on Dyno or paper it would be nice to get to compare. My dealer suggested the JCW upgrade I never thought of it and only charged me $100! My only other conern with the GIAC was with my extended warranty but obviously not a concern with the dealers JCW upgrade. IMO you can't go wrong with either the GIAC or JCW upgrade, it depends on support and maybe warranty (if you have any), good luck and let us know what you go with!

 

Hey if you do Dyno please PM me!!!

 

That would be great and if you do please share. While I am sure it improves things and clearly the $$ is attactive - it would be good to have data before putting this up as a viable option.

 

Well after reading all of your posts and doing some research I've decided to go with the GIAC Re-Flash. In fact I'm getting it done at Curry's Automotive in Northern, VA on Tuesday.

So I will be sure to write back to everyone and let them know what I think. Unfortunately I'm not getting it DYNOed, so I won't be able to offer up real numbers. But I can give you my genuine oppinion.

Have a great weekend, see ya.