[ImpalaJoe]

Hey all! this is my first discussion!

I've got a 96 and I'm currently changing out the gears to 3.73. I purchased USA Standard brand based on a couple posts about the Oscilator ring not fitting properly on a few other brands. I'll need to buy a tuner but I'm having a hard time finding one these days other than PCMforless but I don't want to mail it off. I'd rather have my mechanic make all the adjustments.

Also, I'm looking at getting a 160 thermostat. Any recommendations? I was looking at the Lingenfelter one on Summit's website but there are several including a 180 degree.

Thanks!

ImpalaJoe
1996 DCM (Originally) / Stripped to the bone and painted a custom Mercedes Benz Red
LT4 Upgrade / K&N Cold Air Intake
HD Suspension / KYB Shocks

 

[Marky Dissod]

A hypertech so-called programmer is a meh idea and not good bang for the buck.
pcmforless is NOT recommended.

Try pcmperformance.com. Consistent reputation since 2005.
If you prefer, you can order a 2nd pcm to be custom-programmed.

 

[1slow96]

+1 on pcmperformance.com who will sell a Tuned PCM outright,or send a compatible one from salvage yard.
Hypertech boxes are good at what they do,and convenient to use. They don't add power that anyone can tell though.
Of all the 160 stats. I prefer Mishimoto's

 

[Sshockr]

If you really want to do it yourself you will need the Jet Dynamic Spectrum Tuner, I believe is the name it goes by these days. It used to be Tunercat, they are the only complete tuning cable and tool for the OBD-II LT-1s. The hypertech is a very limited partial tune tool.

-Brian

 

[Litemup]

If you are feeling cautious with the whole mailing out process with PCMperformance, don't. Fast turnaround. You e-mail him with what you need and he will tell you the best tune for your set up. I used them and have no complaints.

 

[scottdog]

I have a Hypertech programmer i used on my '96 Impala SS. I didn't appreciate perceptible performance difference, with the exception of changing shift points and stiffness of shifts in 4L60 tranny, and changing RPM limits for "stock" 350 LT1. Can also change tunes for thermostat settings and rear gear/tire size changes. I thought it worth the money at the time. It still passed smog and mileage was unchanged. Removed the Hypertech "tuning" on my rebuild, now 383 stroker, and dyno tuned it. Different animal now.
Also purchased a spare PCM from Flagship 1. They programmed my VIN # into unit. The PCM had a knock sensor from a Buick, or other GM, it was not the same as original SS knock module. (easy to switch out)
I run a 180* thermostat, the 160* therm didn't deliver adequate heat with winter cold weather. I use a "safety stat", locks open if it gets too hot, saves your motor

I no longer need the Hypertech. I removed all programming from the unit, it can be used for any 96 LT1, but can only be used on one vehicle at a time.

 

[1slow96]

Exactly... It is an option to easily change/change back a bunch of different things.
Making more power? Not so much.

 

[Chester_Lives]

I have a Hypertech programmer i used on my '96 Impala SS. I didn't appreciate perceptible performance difference, with the exception of changing shift points and stiffness of shifts in 4L60 tranny, and changing RPM limits for "stock" 350 LT1. Can also change tunes for thermostat settings and rear gear/tire size changes. I thought it worth the money at the time. It still passed smog and mileage was unchanged. Removed the Hypertech "tuning" on my rebuild, now 383 stroker, and dyno tuned it. Different animal now.
Also purchased a spare PCM from Flagship 1. They programmed my VIN # into unit. The PCM had a knock sensor from a Buick, or other GM, it was not the same as original SS knock module. (easy to switch out)
I run a 180* thermostat, the 160* therm didn't deliver adequate heat with winter cold weather. I use a "safety stat", locks open if it gets too hot, saves your motor

I no longer need the Hypertech. I removed all programming from the unit, it can be used for any 96 LT1, but can only be used on one vehicle at a time.

Do you still have the Hypertech??

 

[Z09B4U]

My 94 came with a Hypertech "tune" for my 3.73s. It did correct the speedometer but it did not have the flexibility to bring out the best shifting at different throttle and engine loads.

For a mail order tune I would suggest some research on how the engine/transmission are tuned. Then you can ask the right questions and get what you like. IE when do you want the transmission to "kick down" 70% throttle or 95%.

I would hit the self service yards and get a spare PCM. If you have tuning issues you still have a "known good" PCM that you can "limp around on".

a couple posts about the Oscilator ring not fitting properly

The ABS is a separate module from the PCM. If you have the correct reluctor and four tires the same diameter the ABS is happy. The 3.73s in my opinion require a more complicated tune of the transmission shift points than a Hypertech can provide.

 

[scottdog]

Do you still have the Hypertech??

Yes. Still in original box and instructions.