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WTB: Programmer for 2001 GMC Sierra 5.3

rusty01

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rusty01 Enthusiast

rusty01

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Looking for a programmer for my 2001 GMC. Must be unlocked. Would prefer the Hypertech Programmer III or the Max Energy.

Texas_Edition Enthusiast

Texas_Edition

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Posted

You would be 10x's better off going with a custom tune done with an EFI Live tuner rather than a crappy and EXTREMELY limited handheld tuner. Those handheld tuners can only do 1/10th, if that, of what a real tuner can do. Check into a Blackbear tune. You can find someone in your location that can do a tune with a tune to exactly what you want with an EFI Live tuner or you can find a company to mail order your tune in. The biggest problem with GM is they give you all of this power, yet they install an Engine Management Program and a Transmission Abuse Program to keep up with the 100k mile warranties other companies come out with. Not sure what engine you have, but say you have a 5.3l with 315hp. It sure doesn't act like it has 315 hp does it? Its because when you stomp on the gas, those programs kick in, detune the engine and control everything from your Air to Fuel Ratio to your transmission shift pressure. Have you ever noticed that when you are at a dead stop and you push the gas all the way down, it bogs down and you barely move, yet when you are at a dead stop and you push on the gas 3/4's of the way and then gradually increase your throttle, it launches alot better? Now I am just giving that example, because its the easiest to describe. From your picture, it looks like you might want some help with towing. The EFI Live software allows the tuners to tune two different programs. One with the Tow/Haul mode on and one with it off. They can even make it to where your Tow/Haul mode button is not for Tow/Haul mode, it can be for racing while with the Tow/Haul mode off, you it can be tuned for the most MPG possible. So many different things you can do.

 

I highly recommend you read up on this and do some research. Goto EFILive.com and start reading up on the forums. I'd also do some research on a Hypertech Programmer and how limited it is. The Hypertech can't actually remap your system. It can only do what is within the GM software's capabilities. Basically, it can only do what its limited to. Your stock PCM software makes adjustments that the Hypertech can do just by your driving habits. When you tune with the Hypertech, the PCM picks up on that eventually and adjust the tuning back to stock on certain areas. If you are in the gas often, then the PCM will make adjustments. Also, IIRC the Hypertech can't tune your transmission to where the EFI Live can. It can make adjustments in pressure, shift points, etc... allowing for firmer shifts, which not only gives you performance, but actually increases the life of your transmission because there is less slippage. Hence one reason why people install shift kits or even better yet, when people take their vehicle in to get their transmission rebuilt, transmission shops will often ask if you want a shift kit installed. Its to extend the transmission life on the newly rebuilt transmission. A Tranny with firm shift kits will last nearly twice as long. When your truck is shifting and its smooth and you dont feel a jolt of any sort, thats the transmission slipping on purpose. Its hard for GM to sell a truck to the average consumer with a transmission that jolts people in their seats, hence why most vehicles have a smooth shift.

 

Sorry for the long write up. I just hate when I see people waste their money on something that will give them very little product on return. The Hypertech is great if you want to change your PCM for when you change gear ratios and tire sizes.

 

Just thought I would chime in and help out. Oh and a Hypertech Programmer is around $340 new. Obviously you are looking for a used one. For an EFI Live tune, you can get it for the same price, but you are getting much much more. Im recommending you getting your truck tuned, not actually purchasing the EFI Live tool and software. Its $900, so thats why I was saying find someone in your area or send your PCM in to get it tuned. You will get better HP, throttle response, fuel economy, transmission upgrades, etc...

 

Here are a couple of links to read up on to get you started.

http://www.eastcoastsupercharging.com/mail-order-tuning-faqs.html

http://forum.efilive.com/

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