I have a 94 M6 that I just downloaded my tune to my laptop, using tunercats. I'm noticing checkboxes and values filled in for TCC and automatic trans stuff. Can I just remove that stuff? For example, Error codes for auto or enabling/disabling switches for TCC. Also, what exactly is C.A.R.S.?

Thanks,
James

 

Can't answer your TCC questions, I'd assume a M6 software load would ignore all the transmission diagnostics. C.A.R.S is called C.A.G.S in newer cars Computer Assisted Gear Selection AKA: skip shift in an M6 forces 1st to 4th shift to save fuel. Lots of people disable it, you can do it with a tune or buy a resistor. Lots out there search on CAGS..

 

Yes, the M6 pretty much just ignores the auto trans info. You can change whatever you want, it won't do anything.

Disableing CAGS/CARS is about the only transmission related function you can change with the M6. There are a few extra options that were put in the PCM, but as far as I know GM never bothered to implement them. Mostly temp related codes and the like. You can't really do anything with them as far as I know.

 

Thanks... I'm just looking to "clean up" unused/unneeded parameters so I can figure out what I'm looking at/changing. Kind of like the guy that has 50 shortcuts on the desktop and only uses 5. I'm the guy that only has the 5 icons and delete what I don't use.

 

Following along the cleanup logic ... when inappropriate (Auto trans functions on M6 cars, Traction Control on non TC cars, or AC functions on non-AC cars) items are unchecked does this reduce the load / number of operations the PCM has to perform? Does the PCM ignore checked functions and not do the related calculation if it gets no reponse from related sensors or does it do the tests and operations anyway?

 

I purchased my 1994 Camaro about a month ago. It's in mint condition and has less than 68,000 miles. I purchase equipment to remove the top speed limiter and completed that task but that is about the limit to my car computer reprogramming experience. I was researching how to remove the skip shift when I came across your thread that mentioned the TunerCat web site. I'm very interested in using my laptop to tune my engine but I don't know what cables, equipment, and software I should buy. Can you help? Thanks.

1994 Camaro Convertible, LT1, 6 Speed

 

Are you a NJ LE? I'm a Former OH LE and currently a NJ LE in south Jersey. PBA???

 

EODDave:
With your reference to the PBA I assume your LE means law enforcement, sorry to disappoint, mine means the Camaro option 1LE. As to eliminating the annoying skip shift, that can be done without reprogramming by removing the connector from the trans and inserting a 2.2k Ohm resistor from Radio Shack into it. You'll still get the light, the PCM will think it actuated the blocking solenoid so it won't store an error code, and you'll be able to go to 2nd gear. Everyone wins!
For programming, 1995 uses a different connector than 1994 and the outfit I bought from no longer sells reasonably priced cables but I noticed that Tunercat at http://tunercat.com/ is now offering a package deal with Tunercat software, the Camaro definition file and cables for a good price. I think you'll use the LT1-Tune1 package but I'd send them an email just to verify.
For data acquisition there is free scanning software available at http://andywhittaker.com/ECU/FreeSca...0/Default.aspx ... about halfway down the page.
Good Luck

 

NJ LE:

Thanks for the quick reply, the info about the skip shift, and the chip programing info. I did find a skip shift "Plug and Play" eliminator on the net for about $24. It appears to work the same as the 2.2k Ohm concept you mentioned. I hope it works 'cause I can't stand that skip shift crap. Also, sorry about the LE mix up. Like I said, I'm new to this Camaro stuff. If it's any consolation, I'm a Bomb Tech and not a ticket writer so enjoy the speed of your ride any time I'm in the area!

 

EODDave:
Originally I just pulled the skip-shift plug and taped it up. out of the way. I didn't know the PCM would store a "skip-shift failure" code. I went through Jersey inspection a couple of times that way but they never mentioned it. (It's said that some states allow a max of 3 stored trouble codes ... more that that and they fail the car) The resistor just simulates the load of a "real" skip-shift" solenoid and fools the PCM and no code will be stored. BTW, a 560 Ohm resistor can be used to simulate the EGR switch solenoid if necessary.