So I was looking through my new issue of European Car and noticed that Volksgerman C. S. was an authorized GIAC dealer. Now does this mean that we DO NOT need to send our units out and can just go there for the upcoming GIAC/Helix custom software install?

 

hmmm, interesting thought. as long as there's a copy of the software, i don't see why it would be a problem to reload/reflash the ecu in hawaii... we have some friends that work at volksgerman so i'll ask the next time i see them.

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i love my mini-pooper.com

 

thanks for checking mini-t. Sounds stupid to have to send unit out when we have something local.

 

I've seen the GIAC stuff there when BME was sharing space with them.

 

Yes Volksgerman does install the GIAC chips at their shop. I've seen their work on all my friends veedubs. Hopefully if they do start installing chips on Minis they can also do other work instead of going to ah that other place we don't like going too.

 

It shouldn't even be that hard since we're using OBD II. All you need is the computer to hook up to the diagnostic port and download!

 

>>It shouldn't even be that hard since we're using OBD II. All you need is the computer to hook up to the diagnostic port and download!

DakineMINI,
Thanks for pointing out that we have this local resource for GIAC. In the beginning we will have to go to a shop to do the ECU install but I think GIAC is looking at other ways to make it easy to install. Either way we should be OK.
Using the OBDII port is very easy.

More is happening with GIAC recently. Eric was not at liberty to say but it should be something new and hopefully better. I know GIAC has already been installed on various MCS and data logging was done and maybe the info gained led to more fine tuning. If a better product or an easier way to install it is a result of all this then that will be worth the delay. I'm still going to wait for GIAC or at least let them release it before I decide what ECU to go with.

Since the ECU is the last mod to do this is no problem. Hopefully we can tune our version of the ECU upgrade for the mods that we have for best results. I'm not a big fan of Unichip. I don't mind waiting.

If anyone gets a chance to talk to Volksgerman, let them know we are interested in the GIAC for MINIs.

 

>>In the beginning we will have to go to a shop to do the ECU install but I think GIAC is looking at other ways to make it easy to install. Either way we should be OK.
>>Using the OBDII port is very easy.

I know that is why I am saying it would be great to have this local GIAC dealer to be able to do the install instead of sending the unit away.


>>I'm not a big fan of Unichip. I don't mind waiting.

Why are you not a fan of Unichip? Just wondering.


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>>Why are you not a fan of Unichip? Just wondering.

From Webbmotorsports, Randy Webb comments:
"They (unichips) are $735, which includes both the A and B map, the plug and play wiring loom with OEM connectors, the UNIChip module, the two switches, the LED light, and a cool keychain."

$735 is about as high a price for any ECU upgrade out there for MINIs. $35 for adding/changing a MAP. Although the installation isn't too bad it still takes 30 minutes and entails cutting for installation of switches.

The dealer can easily see that something has been installed (not too stealthy). I'd still like to see what comes from GIAC and hopefully at a price closer to $500.

 

>>
>>>>Why are you not a fan of Unichip? Just wondering.
>>
>>From Webbmotorsports, Randy Webb comments:
>>"They (unichips) are $735, which includes both the A and B map, the plug and play wiring loom with OEM connectors, the UNIChip module, the two switches, the LED light, and a cool keychain."
>>
>>$735 is about as high a price for any ECU upgrade out there for MINIs. $35 for adding/changing a MAP. Although the installation isn't too bad it still takes 30 minutes and entails cutting for installation of switches.
>>
>>The dealer can easily see that something has been installed (not too stealthy). I'd still like to see what comes from GIAC and hopefully at a price closer to $500.

Where did you find that? I looked on his website, but could not find it. I only saw the info about Powerchips and the EVOtech. If you get 2 maps with the unichip, can you have differing maps; one for on street performance and one for dragstrip perf? If so, it would be worth it!

Saw your baby today. Will she be ready for Spring Fling? I doubt my 6er will be ready in time.

 

>>Where did you find that? I looked on his website, but could not find it. I only saw the info about Powerchips and the EVOtech. If you get 2 maps with the unichip, can you have differing maps; one for on street performance and one for dragstrip perf? If so, it would be worth it!

It was posted by Randy within the thread about Unichip. I think the different maps may pertain to certain setups of mods. For example map A is for intake and exhaust only and map B is for intake, exhaust, pulley and throttlebody. Best to talk to Randy about how the maps differ. You decide on what maps you want. I'm not sure it being tuned for street vs autocross vs track.

>>Saw your baby today. Will she be ready for Spring Fling? I doubt my 6er will be ready in time.
Gerard is very close to finishing. Just checking on some torque values on the ring gear.
Eric is busy doing pulley installs at the tail of the dragon event. I think I'll call him early tomorrow.

 

If they are able to do fuel maps for different mods, they should be able to map for different driving styles also. That would be perfect if you wanted your car with a little more low end for autox and more high end for freeway driving. the possibilities are endless! The only thing to consider is how long it will take your ECU to adapt to the new programming.