Which chip would work best with the setup in my sig, forgot to put tranny rebuild and servo change Or would i be better off burning my own?

 

You'd definitely be better off burning your own chips. Do to the DIY_PROM board and read as much as your eyes can take, read Traxion's tech article, buy the equipment for less than a custom chip costs, then modify anything you want to.

 

To answer the original question, I think you should burn your own chips (like 88ROC1E says - it's less $ than ONE custom chip) OR buy an aftermarket ECM.

What I don't want to do is start a big arguement over burning chips vs. aftermarket ECMs. What I DO want to do is look at the economics and other factors of the two setups. I have read the tech articles both here and at diy-efi. From the tech articles, to start burning chips the basic hardware/software is around $200. There are probably other misellaneous costs (chips, etc) that would bring the total to $250-300. (Please correct me if the # should be more or less)

The Holley 950 conversion kits run $750-800 depending on the model you choose. A definite jump in cost. However, I also value my time. I DO like tinkering on my car but I DON'T like my daily driver down for extended periods of time - in fact I can't afford it.

Another point to ponder is the technology leap. I would think since the Holley technology is 10+ years newer than the GM ECM systems it would have some improvements. I barely know enough to be dangerous about either system so maybe those of you who are more familiar with these systems could give your thoughts.

These are the 950's features: (from the website):
Can operate as a speed density system
..........Uses engine vacuum to sense engine load
..........Best for street-driven vehicles
..........Achieves optimum response and driveability
Can operate in Alpha-N mode
..........Uses throttle position as indication of engine load
..........Engines with wide fluctuations of manifold vacuum at idle due to radical cams
Compatible with 1, 2 or 3 bar MAP sensors
..........Naturally aspirated engines
..........Forced induction engines
Compatible with a GM/Chrysler-style IAC motor for best idle stabilization and control
Compatible for use with knock sensor
Will operate in either open or closed loop
..........A closed loop system uses an oxygen sensor to monitor and adjust the fuel/air ratio for optimum performance
Works with port fuel injection systems
..........Controls up to 8 high impedance injectors
..........Controls up to four low impedance injectors
Works with throttle body fuel injection systems
..........Controls up to four low impedance injectors
..........Throttle body with progressive linkage
..........Throttle body with 1:1 linkage
Complete range of fuel control for:
..........Initial cold start and warm-up
..........Off-idle acceleration
..........Steady cruise
..........Wide open throttle
Controls CD ignition system functions and timing
..........Holley ANNIHILATOR 800-100 or 800-200 ignition
..........Other aftermarket CD ignition systems
Timing control capability can also be achieved through use of:
..........GM HEI module
..........Magnetic crank trigger
..........Hall Effect crank trigger
..........Aftermarket distributor
Programmable RPM scale
Programmable fuel pump and cooling fan control
Can be wired to control a single stage of nitrous Wire/adapter harness required

Can burning chips make the GM ECM as adjustable?

My current situation is that I am retrofitting my carbed '78 Malibu with a tbi using the 7747 computer and a 454 tbi (2" throttle bores). I plan to learn from the tbi setup (and convert my fuel system to FI) and then go to a single plane mpfi (detailed in the post Single Plane EFI <$1000) later. I have purchased the 700cfm 4bbl tbi to use as a throttle body (minus injectors). I think it would be hard to get a stock GM ECM to control such a radical change in intake design, but as I mentioned I am not knowledgeable in its capabilities - those of you who are please enlighten me.

Thanks,
Chris