Is there any software that is user friendly? For example you can just type in the temp you would like for the fan to kick in, or based fuel curves on your camshaft specs or head specs. I want to start burning my own chips because if i am correct i can by the tools do do it myself for less than the cost buying a custom chip.

 

I use TunerCat and it has a LOT of things setup where you just enter the value and it does it for you.

As for the "tuning by cam spec", it really doesn't work because there are a TON of other variables and you would need to account for those. Also, even IF you have two identical engines, you often will find that the "optimal tuning" is different. One engine may handle more spark advance while another won't; even though they are identical.

There are other "bin editors" which are free; some are easy to use (once you spend a little time learning) and another is a bit more difficult to use. Others can explain your alternatives for "bin editors" (which is what we use to alter the tables and constants inside the eprom).

You don't mention your engine but if it's MAF, its a LOT easier to tune (from scratch) than SD. But, there are a TON of guys here who are very familar with SD that would be happy to provide guidance in "drafting" your first bin. Then, all you need to do is "fine tune". WB O2 sensor makes that easy, especially if you use either a Romulator or Prominator to do "on the fly tuning"...the best way to tune IMO.

Trust me, once you spend a little time researching the subject, you will find that it is actually quite simple to tune your engine and get results the easily match any "custom eprom" you can buy. But, with all the tools, then you can develop a far better tune than ANY custom eprom writer can do (without physical access to the car)...and that (physical access) is the key why DIY Prom Burning is the ONLY way to go.

 

PS: I'm glad to see that you have decided to look into eprom burning.

 

Even if i get a custom chip burned, will i still need to have it mechanically dyno tuned, or can the chip take care of everything. i just tune it at the drag strip with the laptop?

 

I dont think you quite understand. Getting a "custom chip burned", and having your car "mechanically dyno tuned", are basically the same thing, except for the dyno.

The contents of the chip ARE your tune. A custom chip doesnt tune itself.

The best way is to tune it yourself, by logging your car, then making changes to the bin (chip) and re-logging to see the results. This will need to be done for normal driving too, not just drag strip passes. Check out the Autoprom and Prominator for tuning with your laptop in real time.