Community Forums

pigdoc · 02-20-2013, 07:37 PM

Anyone out there had experience in using a Hypertech programmer with the 8.1L Chev V8? I've got a 2002 C3500 DRW 4WD CC and am looking at this as a way to increase engine output a bit. But I'd like to know if this works or not? Cost is ~$350. Thanks in advance.

caissiel · 02-22-2013, 12:53 AM

It does perform as advertised. But on gas its very small gain compared to diesel. Check the curves. The opening of the exhaust would be more expensive but might protect your engine and better air filtration might give more power.
My experience with Hypertech is that I program and not worry to much because the numbers never get alarming. It's their policy and legal.

Clayhammer · 03-02-2013, 10:42 PM

I had the Hypertech Max Energy on my 05 Chevy Avalanche 8.1L and was quite happy with it. Ran it in "performance" mode which requires 91 octane or better. It's not a massive change in performance but was noticible. I've since sold the truck but still have the programmer if you're interested.

VanDiemen23 · 03-03-2013, 12:57 AM

I have to ask, what in the world do you need more performance for? I have the same vehicle in a 2001 but SRW. I've never found it lacking for power, acceleration, braking, anything. Towed a 13,000lb boat with it a couple of times, 8000lb toyhauler (lots of drag) for nearly 10 years throughout the mountain west.

I do have the 4.11 gears. Swapping a set of 3.73s for 4.11s would be pricey on a 4wd.

A set of headers might help a smidge, but the rest of the exhaust is already pretty good.

If you are looking for power at the margins, I'd replace the flex fan with some electrics. When the flex fan engages, I lose an entire MPG (dropped from 7 mpg to 6) so you figure the fan has to be stealing something like 50hp.

hawk232 · 03-31-2013, 06:35 AM

hypertech is regarded as one of the bottom line tunes as they are by far the most conservative. you would be much better off looking for a custom tune with efi live. gas engines do not pick up a tremendous amount of power like a diesel (if thats what you are hoping for) but a custom efi live tune from a reputable tuner will gain you almost double what hypertech will gain you. i would recommend that you do some research before dropping the $$. www.performancetrucks.net would be a good place to start

caissiel · 04-01-2013, 12:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hawk232

hypertech is regarded as one of the bottom line tunes as they are by far the most conservative. you would be much better off looking for a custom tune with efi live. gas engines do not pick up a tremendous amount of power like a diesel (if thats what you are hoping for) but a custom efi live tune from a reputable tuner will gain you almost double what hypertech will gain you. i would recommend that you do some research before dropping the $$. www.performancetrucks.net would be a good place to start

I have been using my Hypertech for towing going on 6 years. No problems like others, I consider my programing protects my drive train and it performs like the power curves indicate. Will never tow without it.

hawk232 · 04-07-2013, 08:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by caissiel

I have been using my Hypertech for towing going on 6 years. No problems like others, I consider my programing protects my drive train and it performs like the power curves indicate. Will never tow without it.

i am absolutely not saying that they do not work as advertised! i have used them in the past and you are right, they work exactly as described. i was simply saying that a custom tune via efilive or comparable will net much greater returns with only minimal more $$. you just have to make sure that you trust your tuner.