Hello Link users. I’m fairly new to the world of standalone ECU’s but excited to be exploring new functionality and potential for my vehicles.
I’m looking to use a G4X plug-in for my 1990 300ZX. It was originally an NA car, and has been converted to a TT. Unsure if it’s a swap or engine conversion. It’s got upgraded turbos and manifolds, full exhaust, bigger injectors, bigger ICs and piping, and a single pop-charger style air intake. Currently it’s run on a chipped original ECU with a Greddy e-boost controller.
I have some support from professional tuners but will mostly be embarking on a journey to learn to tune myself, having some limited experience. I intend on using resources such as HPA and others, as well as personal connections to professional shops to learn.
My primary goals are better idle control, better low speed drivability, boost by gear, engine monitoring and protection, and hopefully with fine-tuning the engine’s performance, increasing reliability and longevity (as much as is realistic with an older turbo car). I also intend on converting to a MAP setup, likely using the onboard MAP sensor and installing an IAT sensor. Eventually, down the road, I’d like to convert to DBW to further simplify idle control and gain some more flexibility.
Before I commit to this engine management solution, I was hoping to get clarification on a few questions.
- I know that the ECU can be modified with flying leads for the internal e-throttle controller to be accessible. I’ve seen in other posts that the main concern for a DBW conversion on this platform is having enough input and output. I’m unsure how to figure out what is required on the ECU side, and what all I will need as far as additional I/O. I know an additional external controller will be needed since there are dual TBs. How do I ensure the ECU has the I/O needed, and what other features do I need to be considering when determining if I need more in the long run? I/O is a bit of a new concept to me in this specific type of use.
- With the dual lambda, do I still need two Link CAN lambda modules (or other compatible controller) for the wideband sensors? Or does the plug-in have onboard controllers?
- Is it recommended with a primarily street driven vehicle to upgrade to a crank trigger and cam sync setup? I’ve seen other posts about the issues with the stock CAS and timing.
- Does this specific ECU sound like a good option, or will I be running into limitations using the PnP option? I don’t particularly consider myself experienced enough to build an entire wiring harness, though I’m capable of some more basic wiring jobs, repinning, and such. My hope would be to replace the wiring harness with an OEM style replacement and wire in the needed/new sensors or components as additions when I need to, potentially repurposing unused wires in the harness as I delete unnecessary systems (such as the MAF), or simply running new wires.
Any insight is gladly welcomed. I’m hoping to do enough research to make the right decision the first time. I’m happy to clarify anything or answer questions. Thank you.