Tuning Tips

In order to provide the best custom tuning experience possible, CRT Performance recommends printing and completing the following form and bringing the results to your scheduled tuning session, or even email or fax it to us ahead of time.  The form can also be downloaded here.

CRT Performance also recommends that the following be done before arriving for your session:

• Timing set at 10-degrees BTC (SPOUT out) for Ford EFI vehicles
• TDC verified, particularly if balancer has been removed/replaced
• Fuel pressure set to 39.5 psi (vacuum off) for EFI vehicles
• New copper spark plugs properly gapped and installed

Other dyno and tuning session tips are:

• Make sure that FRP or FRP sensor is connected to the boost side of the blower on blown applications
• Make sure all spark plug wires are good, including coil wire
• Make sure PCM and its diagnostic ports (including OBDII) are functioning properly
• Make sure the drive tires are in good condition
• Make sure all belts, hoses and the cooling system are in good condition and up to the task
• Oil, coolant and other leaks should be fixed prior to arriving; badly smoking cars should be repaired before arriving
• Check for ancillary PCM trouble codes if possible before arriving.  We can check for codes before running/tuning if desired at additional time/cost
• For blown cars, be prepared to disconnect the FMU; have vacuum line plug/cap available
• For blown cars, if no FMU is used the injectors and fuel system must be sized properly for the power level expected;  serious engine damage could result if the injectors are not up to the task
• For blown cars, the ACT must be placed after the blower (not before like on ’94 & up vehicles)
• For blown cars with returnless fuel systems, we highly recommend the use of a 2003 Mustang Cobra fuel tank and pumps.  Normal EFI pumps will not work on a returnless system
• Cars with returnless systems cannot be properly tuned if using a ‘wet’ nitrous system
• Please have your PCM exposed and hanging for easy access by the technician.  This will save us time and you money.
• Exhaust leaks will dramatically affect the air/fuel measurements taken.  If possible, repair any/all leaks prior to your appointment.  We may not be able to provide meaningful air/fuel results for vehicles with significant leaks.

CRT Performance has two means available for measuring air/fuel ratio (AFT) during you dyno and tuning sessions.

1. Slip-on tailpipe adapter w/ wide-band O2 sensor
2. Welded bung installation at/near the header collector w/ wide-band O2 sensor

If you prefer the welded bung approach (better response and results => preferred method), please let us know this at the time of your scheduling.  If you don’t have a bung already welded in place, we can supply a bung and weld it into your for you.  We will need you to arrive approximately an hour before your scheduled session in order to provide this service.  An additional cost of $75 is incurred for each bung you wish to have installed.  This price includes the bung, welded installation and a plug for the bung.  

CRT Performance has an optical pickup sensor available for use on diesel vehicles. There is no additional cost for the use of this sensor.

CRT Performance also has an intake boost (up to 45 psig) & vacuum (NA applications) sensor module available for use.  An additional cost may be incurred depending on the installation required for the vehicle.