SuperChips FlashPaq Roadtest

Started my road test, I will update with additional posts as the trip progresses.

Date Miles Gallons Price MPG Notes

#1) 7/05/09 149.0 12.837 $3.02 11.6 Peoria AZ to Blythe CA Highyway @ 75 mph (92 Octane)

#2) 7/07/09 216.0 15.686 $2.86 13.8 Blythe CA to Pasadena CA @ 65 mph (91 Octane)

#3) 7/07/09 145.0 10.215 $2.84 14.2 Pasadena CA to Love's Truckstop #230 @ 65 mph (87 Octane)

#4) 7/08/09 236.0 17.173 $2.93 13.7 Truck Stop to Sacramento CA @ 65 mph (87 Octane)

For this test I locked in the cruise control upon entering the highway and left it alone until I exited the highway.

I filled the Commander in Peoria with 92 Octane fuel.

The first reading (#1) was OEM tires and the flashpaq set at factory settings. At 75 mph I received a mpg or 12.837

The second reading (#2) was the same set up but a reduced speed of 65 mph and I received 13.8 mpg, so I picked up 1 mpg by reducing my speed 10 miles per hour (no other adjustments were made)

Upon arriving in Pasadena California I set the Flashpaq for the 87 Octane setting and made no other changes. I filled up with 87 Octane prior to leaving town.

Reading #3 was from Pasadena California to a truck stop along I-5 where I stopped for fuel, at this point I was getting 14.2 mpg It was a little better than when I ran 91 Octane on the two previous tanks but not a major improvement. One interesting thing about this section of the trip is that I drove over the grape vine which is a pretty big hill for those unfamiliar with it, I got 38 mpg all the way down which certainly helped in the higher mpg that I show on this leg of the trip.

I filled up again in Sacramento with 87 octane fuel and discovered that I had gotten 13.7 mpg so it did not appear that the 87 v 91 octane setting had a significant increase in MPG, but what it did do was allow me to run a cheaper fuel with no lose to the overall mpg.

Prior to departing Sacramento I will be reprogramming the Commander for the next test and reporting on those gains if any.

Is there a reason that you have it setup for OEM tires. WOuldnt it be better to adjust for the size you are currently running? Or did I misunderstand you.

Is there a reason that you have it setup for OEM tires. Wouldn't it be better to adjust for the size you are currently running? Or did I misunderstand you.

I put my OEM tires back on my Commander before I started on my trip. Since all my miles are going to be on the pavement I thought I would save the tread that is on my BFG's for Colorado.

I put my OEM tires back on my Commander before I started on my trip. Since all my miles are going to be on the pavement I thought I would save the tread that is on my BFG's for Colorado.

That makes sense.

Arrived in Oregon today but did not stop for gas, I will fill up tomorrow and post update.

anymore updates?

Sorry, have to get my son's Eagle project finished and then I can input all my data, some real interesting results too.

Sorry it has taken me so long to get this information collected and entered into www.fuelly.com

Post # 1 shows my first 4 fill-ups but I am going to repeat the information so that it is all together in one place.

Started my road test, I will update with additional posts as the trip progresses.

Date Miles Gallons Price MPG Notes

#1) 7/05/09 149.0 12.837 $3.02 11.6 Peoria AZ to Blythe CA Highyway @ 75 mph (92 Octane)

#2) 7/07/09 216.0 15.686 $2.86 13.8 Blythe CA to Pasadena CA @ 65 mph (91 Octane)

#3) 7/07/09 145.0 10.215 $2.84 14.2 Pasadena CA to Love's Truckstop #230 @ 65 mph (87 Octane)

#4) 7/08/09 236.0 17.173 $2.93 13.7 Truck Stop to Sacramento CA @ 65 mph (87 Octane)

For this test I locked in the cruise control upon entering the highway and left it alone until I exited the highway.

I filled the Commander in Peoria with 92 Octane fuel.

The first reading (#1) was OEM tires and the flashpaq set at factory settings. At 75 mph I received a mpg or 12.837

The second reading (#2) was the same set up but a reduced speed of 65 mph and I received 13.8 mpg, so I picked up 1 mpg by reducing my speed 10 miles per hour (no other adjustments were made)

Upon arriving in Pasadena California I set the Flashpaq for the 87 Octane setting and made no other changes. I filled up with 87 Octane prior to leaving town.

Reading #3 was from Pasadena California to a truck stop along I-5 where I stopped for fuel, at this point I was getting 14.2 mpg It was a little better than when I ran 91 Octane on the two previous tanks but not a major improvement. One interesting thing about this section of the trip is that I drove over the grape vine which is a pretty big hill for those unfamiliar with it, I got 38 mpg all the way down which certainly helped in the higher mpg that I show on this leg of the trip.

I filled up again in Sacramento with 87 octane fuel and discovered that I had gotten 13.7 mpg so it did not appear that the 87 v 91 octane setting had a significant increase in MPG, but what it did do was allow me to run a cheaper fuel with no lose to the overall mpg.

Prior to departing Sacramento I will be reprogramming the Commander for the next test and reporting on those gains if any.
__________________

The first four fill-ups were in the "87 Octane" setting and ranged from 11.6 mpg to 14.2 mpg with an average of 13.3 mpg

I then changed the setting to the "mileage XS" setting for the remainder of the first portion of my road trip. During this portion I filled up a total of 8 times and had a range from 13.0 mpg to 15.2 mpg with an overall average of 14.0 mpg

It would appear that the "mileage XS" mode increased my mpg by at least .7 mpg which then ended up saving me a little bit of money which was the desired effect.

The next portion of my trip was from Phoenix to Silverton Colorado and we were pulling a trailer so I set the FlashPaq in the "Tow" mode.

While in this mode I filled up with fuel a total of four times with a range of 8.0 mpg to 12.3 mpg for an average of 10.75 mpg which was pretty good considering I was pulling a trailer over some pretty big mountains and hills.

The next portion was while traveling around Silverton and doing our off road trips, during these three fill-ups I was set in the "Off-Road" mode and had an average of 8.5 mpg which I felt was acceptable considering the kind of driving that we were doing.

The last portion of the trip was back in the "Tow" mode and I had four fill-ups between Silverton and topping off at home. The average on this leg of the trip was 11.9 mpg so I did better coming home then going out to Colorado.

The last portion of the trip was back in the "Tow" mode and I had four fill-ups between Silverton and topping off at home. The average on this leg of the trip was 11.9 mpg so I did better coming home then going out to Colorado.

Phoenix to Silverton...increasing elevation.
Silverton to Phoenix...decreasing elevation - Down Hill probably helped overall. :stickpoke:

Phoenix to Silverton...increasing elevation.
Silverton to Phoenix...decreasing elevation - Down Hill probably helped overall. :stickpoke:

Excellent observation. Phoenix is about 1,200 feet and Silverton is around 12,000 feet.

Excellent info, now I just wish I can get a comparo between AEV Module and Superchips Flashpaq. Hopefully, software will be released for the 09 Hemi before next summer!

Is there a reason why you are getting very low MPG's besides the speed? i drive 4.5 hrs to St Louis from Chicago every second week and even tho the speed limit is 65, i drive 60 to keep at 1500 RPM's which results 21.7 MPG. and that's with 33'' MTR's
Not bragging in anyway FYI.

Is there a reason why you are getting very low MPG's besides the speed? i drive 4.5 hrs to St Louis from Chicago every second week and even tho the speed limit is 65, i drive 60 to keep at 1500 RPM's which results 21.7 MPG. and that's with 33'' MTR's
Not bragging in anyway FYI.

Might be because you are driving a more aerodynamic vehicle? What motor do you have? I am assumeing your driving your WK which I would guess weights less than an XK. Not really sure, just guessing.

Did you notice any performance gains in the S.O.T.P. dyno? As in did you notice the vehicle felt faster off the line after using the FlashPaq?

Did you notice any performance gains in the S.O.T.P. dyno? As in did you notice the vehicle felt faster off the line after using the FlashPaq?

No, The Hemi with the CAI and Gibson exhaust is great, I saw better MPG but not sure I would notice any S.O.T.P. reaction. It does have a power mode but I have not tried playing with it yet however.

No, The Hemi with the CAI and Gibson exhaust is great, I saw better MPG but not sure I would notice any S.O.T.P. reaction. It does have a power mode but I have not tried playing with it yet however.
Ok thanks.

I loaded the Flashpaq in this past weekend and set it to performance mode and immediately felt the difference in acceleration at any RMP. Much better off the line. I was impressed. No buyer's remorse on this!!!

I loaded the Flashpaq in this past weekend and set it to performance mode and immediately felt the difference in acceleration at any RMP. Much better off the line. I was impressed. No buyer's remorse on this!!!
Thanks for the info. That is exactly what I was looking for.

The cheapest I have been able to find the Superchips Flashpaq 3875 is $309.00, with free shipping.

I loaded the Flashpaq in this past weekend and set it to performance mode and immediately felt the difference in acceleration at any RMP. Much better off the line. I was impressed. No buyer's remorse on this!!!

That is good news, next time we go to the track I will try both settings on the 1/4 mile.

The cheapest I have been able to find the Superchips Flashpaq 3875 is $309.00, with free shipping.

Buy it, you will not find a lower price.

49erfan,

No worries, your bumper should keep you from wheelying!!!!:stickpoke:

The cheapest I have been able to find the Superchips Flashpaq 3875 is $309.00, with free shipping.

Take a look at ebay! 299 with 15% BING cash back.

Take a look at ebay! 299 with 15% BING cash back.
Thanks for the info.

Just bought mine off eBay for $309 shipped. And, yes, you can't beat that price anywhere else.

I'm REALLY annoyed at the seller though... I completed the Paypal transaction about 2 pm on Tuesday the 1st. It sat stagnant until about 4:30 pm Wednesday, when I finally receive a UPS tracking number. It showed as ''billing info received'' the rest of the stinkin' day on the UPS tracking site.

It has been sent with UPS 3 Day Select, but since an entire shipping day was squandered, it won't be here until Tuesday the 8th, AFTER this coming Labor Day weekend. :ugh2: So much for doing any testing on the day trips planned over the long weekend. :mofo:

The next portion was while traveling around Silverton and doing our off road trips, during these three fill-ups I was set in the "Off-Road" mode and had an average of 8.5 mpg which I felt was acceptable considering the kind of driving that we were doing.

That is pretty good considering I averaged 7.5 MPG while looking at the back of your Commander on the same run(s). :)

The engine's still doing work, but the Jeep is going 15 ~ 20 MPH maximum speed in low range for literally hundreds of off-road miles. The usual average speed was really about 5 ~ 10 MPH though.

I was reading the tech forums at http://flashpaq.com/

I'm getting about halfway concerned from some of the posts. For one thing, the ''new users register here'' button on their main website is dead. There's a post about the dead link that's over a month old. Hmmmm. WTF?

And others who did updates to their units only to have problems with either the Flashpaq unit or the vehicle.

So... do I just forget about updating the thing and plug 'er into the Jeep when the box comes? Or do I take a chance on updating the thing 1st on their website? (While singing that Abba tune! :) ) At any rate, it's a moot point 'til they fix the 'new users' thing since there's no way to create an account or log in.

I don't have the thing in hand, and won't until UPS delivers it on Tuesday, but I can already feel one eyebrow lifting up like Spock's from Star Trek.

I did the update before first use and to this date have never had a problem with the FlashPaq.

I did the update before first use and to this date have never had a problem with the FlashPaq.

Whew!! I'll try not to annoy any Gypsies or witch doctors before next Tuesday. I don't want my Voodoo doll getting poked with sewing needles. :D :D :D

On their forums, there's very few refs to Commanders, so maybe it's mostly other vehicles with problems. Seems I read quite a few complaints about Dodge Dakotas and the like.

But... the ''new users'' link is still dead on the Flashpaq website. ??? According to a couple of PDF manuals I've read, you can't get an update without a username/password.

**SIGH**

I 'spose that'll mean a phone call to tech support to get an account set up.

if one is to install the stage 2 jet chip and then buy the flash paq is this going to be a contradiction?

if one is to install the stage 2 jet chip and then buy the flash paq is this going to be a contradiction?

Yes, I removed my Jet Chip prior to the Flashpaq installation. You can not run them together.

But... the ''new users'' link is still dead on the Flashpaq website. ??? According to a couple of PDF manuals I've read, you can't get an update without a username/password.

**SIGH**

I 'spose that'll mean a phone call to tech support to get an account set up.

Do Not Fret!!!

When you install the software there is a create new account feature in the setup program. I Just installed mine and this is how I created a new acount.

Yes, I removed my Jet Chip prior to the Flashpaq installation. You can not run them together.

does this mean you have a jet chip for sale? or did you sell it already?:stickpoke:

does this mean you have a jet chip for sale? or did you sell it already?:stickpoke:

Sold it on eBay.

all well back to the subject at hand....will the flashpaq recalibrate for oversized tires?

all well back to the subject at hand....will the flashpaq recalibrate for oversized tires?

It sure does....

You can't use an ECM reprogrammer and Jet chip at the same time. That's because a Jet chip (plug in module) feeds false data to the ECM to keep it ''happy.'' The ECM ''thinks'' it's keeping to conservative emission standards, while the Jet is making things happen.

Can you imagine what would happen with a Flashpaq performance program loaded up and a Jet chip feeding it garbage data?

It would be like Bill gates at the playboy mansion..... mass confusion!!!!!

Just an FYI...I have taken the XK out several times now under Performance mode and while I enjoy the extra pickup, the "off the line" map is very sudden. I have to concentrate on feathering the gas pedal to get a smooth take off. I put it back to stock before going out in the desert yesterday.

Do you have to upload the update from the website or can you just plug and play right out of the box?

Well tested mine out this morning. Used the tire size correction and the 87 octane performance features. Very easy to use and I like the results! I am a bit disappointed with all the features that are not available for the XK that this flashpaq can do. Has anyone spoken with the Superchips engineers and asked when we are going to get some love???

Do you have to upload the update from the website or can you just plug and play right out of the box?
Does anyone know?

They recommend that you connect and upload any new programing before your first use. You CAN use it out of the box but why would you not want to upload a new program if one was available?

They recommend that you connect and upload any new programing before your first use. You CAN use it out of the box but why would you not want to upload a new program if one was available?
Thanks for the info.

Thanks for the info.

Anytime, looking forward to road-test results as soon as you have them.

Is there a specific reason people are removeing their jet chips and throwing the flashpaqs on? i know the flashpaq has alot more versatility but are people having issues with the Jet chips?

Is there a specific reason people are removeing their jet chips and throwing the flashpaqs on? i know the flashpaq has alot more versatility but are people having issues with the Jet chips?

No issues with the Jet Chip, the FlashPaq is just a much better product and can do so much more then the chip.

It is kind of like throwing out your old TV antenna for cable, you still have TV the only difference is now you have better TV.

Good to know....thank you 49er

Got mine yesterday. I just whipped it right out of the box, and programmed away. :D

Today, I might put the stock program back, and update the thing. From the Superchips forums, people get into bad trouble when they reprogram the vehicle, THEN update the unit. The reflash/update must erase whatever’s in the Flashpaq, including the saved stock files. Then, the vehicle is already updated with tuning, and the Flashpaq won’t touch it. That’s because it becomes ‘’VIN locked’’ to YOUR Jeep. The first thing it does is read the OEM programming, saves it, and reads the vehicle ID. Only then can you do anything. If a vehicle has been flashed (previous owner/whatever) the Flashpaq will NOT work. It needs a factory program in the ECM. If you update the Flashpaq and lose the OEM files, it’s game over until you go to the dealer and pay $$$ for a reflash of the ECM so you can re-read it.

The first one I did was 87 performance. I drove around a bit and noticed it sounds different. When I get on it, there’s a noticeable ‘bark’ from both ends… intake noise like an old ‘rod with a moaning 4 barrel carb from the front, and a different exhaust note from the back. It does ‘get it on’ because I zipped to 60 MPH in a 40 zone in about 6 seconds. :) I also squalled the tires too. Wow! Screaming tires in a 4x4 ain’t easy to do.

Now, it has a mileage XS installed. I won’t go so far as to call it gutless, but it is noticeably tame compared to stock or the 87 perf mode. The computer says 14.2 MPG for whatever that’s worth. (Usually it shows about 12 in town) Only a tank or two will really tell. The throttle is like stepping on mashed potatoes because it just doesn’t leap to life from a stop sign. The Mileage XS mode would be good for off-roading to avoid slippage though. I’m an old motorhead, so how long I can stand to have mileage mode installed is anyone’s guess. I like snappy response, MPG be da**ed. :D Oh yes, it also changed the shift points… it holds a gear much longer before a shift in mileage XS mode.

As for the unit itself, it’s about the size of a typical scientific calculator. I’ve looked at the $399 Hypertech with its pathetic one line ‘’star burst’’ display. I call them that because radios we work with sometimes have those displays. It’s a digital digit with a star within, and it forms crappy looking characters. I associate those with CHEAP two-way radios, electronics, etc. The Superchips has a pixel type display… I’d guess it’s 200x75 or so pixels, so it’s multiple lines of sharp text and/or graphics. And… back lit in white. It’s very easy to read, and with several lines of text, there’s NO SCROLLING like a one line display. When you first plug it in, it says JEEP in 1 inch tall letters.

The cordset is about 6 feet long, and that’s nice too, as the XK’s diagnostics connector is on the far left side. A passenger could use it during live sensor data testing and the like.

The first time takes maybe ten or fifteen minutes to read and save the vehicle ID and OEM files… there’s two files. After that, selecting a mode (87 performance, towing, etc.) takes only about four or five minutes. It seems to build up the files first, then writes them in one at a time. You turn the key off, then back on again for the second file write. It clearly tells you what to do, and you can’t screw up. Forget to turn the key on or off at the right moment, and it waits ‘til you do what it wants. The dashboard and other items go crazy while it’s doing the deed. Error messages show up on the dash display, (Transmission overheat, check gauges, etc.) the heated seats, towing mode and parking sensor switches light up and turn off, the headlights go on and off, the heater fan starts/stops. After it’s done, it says vehicle has TUNING mode installed and to remove the Flashpaq. Wah-lah, it’s ready to drive.

The next time it’s plugged in, it says vehicle has a tuning mode installed and the unit is locked to that vehicle. It’s easy and fast (4~5 min.) for the next program mode change. Select quick tuning mode, pick the one you want, and away it goes.

Excellent breakdown of the product and features Adondo! One note to add about updating the product.

Even thought the product is vinlocked to your vehicle you can update the programmer without removing the tuning from the vehicle.

The only thing you will have to do to allow the new additions in the download to take effect is retune the vehicle once more with either the same tune currently installed or another of your choosing.

Scott

Great report Adondo! Glad someone else has one now, and thanks Scott for your update as well.

I just went out and returned it to stock programming. That didn't take too long. So... if updating the Flashpaq bombs big time, I can still drive home. :D

I'm goin' in! Connecting the USB cable... now.

Edit:

It figures... ''Email activation required'' Who thinks that crap up? It should start working after all the input screens wanting demographic info galore are filled in and submitted. But noooOOOooo, I gotta wait for an email from them first. (should be within 10 minutes so they say)

I'm outa' here for the day. Maybe the stupid activate whatever will be waiting in the spam filter by tomorrow. *SIGH*

:program: :popblood: :elephant: :thanks:

I decided to stuff the 87 performance program in before I left... I had a low right rear tire anyway, so I pulled it into the shop. (See? I told you I couldn't stand not having POWER! :D )

No stinkin' email from Superchips yet. Ten minutes my (Insert the synonym for donkey here) !!!

I timed it though... it took right at 6.5 minutes to reprogram it.

Elvis has left the building.

OK I have played around for a couple of days with mine set up with the 87 perf mode and there is a noticeable improvement in off the line performance. So far I am glad I made the investment to be able to correct my tire size and get some power back due to larger tire size! BUT here is my wish list of features that the engineers over at Superchips need to "activate" for the XK:

TPMS thresholds
Trans shift point changes (I know wide open throttle is active but I rarely drive at WOT)

If I had these two features I would be happy as a pig in [removed]
Scott??? What can you tell us???

Still no email. The booklet says their tech support (telephone) is 8 am to 5 pm, M-F, EST. I ‘spose that means someone has to manually send an email out for the registration. So, after 8am eastern standard time, and adding an hour or so for them to have their coffee and donuts, maybe I’ll get my email so I can complete the [removed]! registration process. :D (Me? Bitter? NoooOOOoooo)

Anyway, I was playing with it more. It monitors an amazing amount of parameters, and not just engine related. I won’t even go into what, it’s probably over 75 items. You can watch four at a time on the nice screen. (Eat your heart out, Hypertech, with your useless 1 line display) The screen divides graphically into quarters, so you can easily see each item if you put the Flashpaq in a cell phone holder. I had it reading throttle position, engine loading, spark advance, and catalytic temperature. The numbers are bold and large.

It also does time and distance items. I did a few 0 – 40 MPH times. You start the mode, it figures out when you start moving, and just works. My times were semi-worthless as I did a few 0-40’s only. I didn’t know if red & blue lights were going to pop out of the bushes from the pitch dark. That and a 0-40 time isn’t too revealing anyway because about the time the engine’s getting good ‘n’ wound up, and you’re pinned in the seat, it’s time to let off the gas. I’d guess another 20 MPH to reach 60 would be only about 1.5 seconds more since the Jeep’s really just getting going.

In 87 perf mode, 0-40 was 5.2 as the best time. A change to econo mode was 5.55 seconds. So, there IS a difference. But, as I said, it was dark, the streets busy, and I didn’t really do good solid stomps on the gas pedal. (I was too busy looking around for cops like a bobble-headed doll) I just filled up at the airport card lock, so SOON, I’ll head out into the sagebrush filled desert to a straight, abandoned road. With a clipboard handy, I’ll get some 0-60 times in various modes. The distance modes include 1/8 and 1/4 mile time/speed, so we'll see about that too. I'll do a stock, 87 performance, and economy mode. Then again, it saves your time data, so maybe I can forget the clipboard. :)

A note on the perf modes. There’s two, 87 and 91 octane. I’ve been getting card lock fuel forever. I got the account years ago when I bought the motorcoach. It’s SO much easier to get diesel from a card lock then deal with truck stops. There’s no waiting in line, etc. I’m spoiled now, and buy gas from card locks too. 4 steps: drive in, put in the card, pump the fuel, leave. And that includes Oregon where you can’t pump your own gas. (card locks are exempt) But, Pacific Pride tends to sell fuel with 10% ethanol. Superchips says don’t waste time with performance modes while running E85. (15% alcohol) So, my 87 perf mode might not act what someone buying regular non-alcohol added fuel might act like. We’ll see with the logged times later. And… sometime I’ll have to stuff in premium from a public station and try 91 octane perf mode.

TPMS thresholds? I saw that and played with it. After sliding the bar, it asked if I really wanted to program it in. I bailed out since I run 40 PSI and it was set for 35 PSI, and figured it’s close enough.

And trans shift points seem to be buried into the programming. It holds gears longer in economy mode, it was about the first thing I noticed. I guess they didn’t break them out as separate programming functions.

Question: is there anyway to firm up shifts when in the manu-matic mode? I find the response to be slow at best when hitting the shifter and was looking for something that would make the downshifts a little more abrupt. I know the upshifts are still controlled by the PCM since you're only selecting the highest gear available and not the actual gear driven in.

Any input?

Thanks

Question: is there anyway to firm up shifts when in the manu-matic mode? I find the response to be slow at best when hitting the shifter and was looking for something that would make the downshifts a little more abrupt. I know the upshifts are still controlled by the PCM since you're only selecting the highest gear available and not the actual gear driven in.

Any input?

Thanks
It will only shift in to the gear you choose when it is safe for the engine so that it does not over rev.

I know it won't shift unless it's in a safe RPM range, but the lag time on it's pretty slow. I was wondering if it could be firmed up.

Mine has no lag time. I can start from a stop and shift manually through all the gears just like a regular manual transmission.

Have you tried it with the haul/towing mode on?

Have you tried it with the haul/towing mode on?
You talkin' to me ?

You talkin" to me ?

No, BlackonBlack. I was wondering if he tried haul/tow mode. (The button on the dash) It tends to firm up shifts and hold in gears longer. Although... it does keep you out of 5th.

Question: is there anyway to firm up shifts when in the manu-matic mode? I find the response to be slow at best when hitting the shifter and was looking for something that would make the downshifts a little more abrupt. I know the upshifts are still controlled by the PCM since you're only selecting the highest gear available and not the actual gear driven in.

Any input?

Thanks

Firming up the shift points is an option on the flashpaq but is NOT available on the XK. There are several great features that we should really have!!! I urge everyone who is interested in a flashpaq to email tech support (mailto:techSupport@superchips.com)and the sales/engineering staff (mailto:sales@superchips.com)and ask when these will be available. Remember the squeaky wheel get the grease!

Never did get any email back, I had to call them. I got a human within 3 minutes, so it wasn’t too bad. I got put on hold, and when he came back, I could log in. Note for new users: don't bother waiting for an email confirmation to complete registration, just make the call. :)


Updated the Flashpaq, no problems. I rewrote the mileage XS mode again in case something changed in the updated data files. It took about 30 minutes to update the unit.


Here’s a shot of the Flashpaq in monitor mode. I’m watching:
(The engine is not running)
http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2006-3/1160325/DSCF5308.JPG

LOAD, as in calculated engine loading in percentage.

MAP = Manifold Absolute Pressure. That’s the type of gauge you’ll find in an airplane. 14.7 PSI and/or 100 Kpa (approx) is atmospheric pressure. It reads lower when the engine is running, since the manifold goes into vacuum.

ECT = Engine Coolant Temperature.

ADV = spark advance. That’s an interesting one. It’s –64 degrees when not running. It goes as high as +44 degrees when running.




The dash in the dark. The dash pod is vacuum and voltage. I like a vacuum gauge because you can see what the engine is ''doing.'' Search the 'net for a primer on reading vac gauges.
http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2006-3/1160325/DSCF5310.JPG


The Flashpaq in the cellphone holder. I don't need the phone in it anyway, since I just have to be within 10 feet with a Bluetooth hands free. The phone works just as good in my shirt pocket. :)

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2006-3/1160325/DSCF5312.JPG

I do not see your images.

Have you tried it with the haul/towing mode on?

I'll try that. Thanks

We’re into a huge garage sale now. Made a few $$$ last weekend by being only partially ready and setting out signs. This weekend, I’ll have an ad running, so it’ll be overrun. (with any luck) The good news is the sheds are getting cleared out. When it’s done, what Goodwill doesn’t take is heading to the dump.

Now, you’all now why I was so irritated at the eBay seller for wasting a perfectly good shipping day of Wednesday. I had all of Labor Day weekend to play with the Flashpaq, but it shows up late Tuesday. Now, I won’t be able to do any test runs for at least 3 weeks. A relative just died, so right after the next garbage, er I mean garage sale, we’re heading south for a week or so.

In the meantime… for around town, the computer shows 11.5 MPG. I filled up and hit the freeway, and it crawled up to almost 21 MPG. (WOW!) But, generally getting around in this town, it’s drive 50 yards, stop, idle for 3 minutes, get moving again, drive another 50 yards, stop, idle for 3 minutes, repeat. Their answer to everything here is stick up yet another traffic light. Also, there’s construction galore, with a complete closure of a major bridge for the next 9 days. (ARRGH!!) I almost wonder if having performance mode might be better for town driving since the XK’s 5,200 lbs. has to be constantly started up from a dead stop. It might really be as bad as the computer shows: I’ve driven only 51 miles, and it’s already down an 1/8th tank. (It’s between full and 3/4)


P.S. W[hat] is going on with the photos?!? I fixed them already twice. Grrrrrrrrrrrr!!! Stupid Google Picassa. I might have to change photo hosts.

Just updated my flashpaq and checked for any shifting options. Survey say's - NO! Shure hope they are working on this!

Suspicions confirmed.

I reprogrammed to performance 87 before I left the shop. I reset the dash MPG reading, which was showing 11.5. On the way home, which included crawling along thru a semi-non-moving snake of traffic thru the torn up bridge approach, the MPG climbed up to 13.5 MPG.

It feels snappier too. Whether it’s a different throttle response or actual power…? But, the readings on the Flashpaq monitor ARE different. The MAP is lower, (or higher on the vacuum gauge) the advance is different in perf 87 mode compared to mileage XS. It was idling at 44, now the MAP is 33. (25’’ vac) It idles at +16 degrees advance compared to mileage XS’s +33. It doesn’t seem to crank in quite as much advance at higher RPM either. At least I know the ECM’s EEPROM is actually getting reprogrammed. :D

If it’s really getting 13.5 or better in city, (it was still going UP) I’ll be happy. That’s just under the overall average anyway. City driving drags the total on Fuelly.com down to about 14 MPG mainly because of city driving. It has been getting 16 to 17 on road trips. The 12.5 town MPG or so pulls down the total average figure.

So… it looks like the best idea so far is to reprog to mileage XS mode when hitting the highway, and perf mode when in town. It makes sense to me as you need better off-the-line power to get weight up and moving compared to steady state driving on the road.

I gotta’ head to Hermiston this coming Thursday morning unless something gets rescheduled again. That’ll test the mileage XS mode theory for highway mileage.

Oh yeah, the shift pattern does change. Now, once again in perf 87 mode, it upshifts much quicker. I’m in 4th by 40 MPH. In mileage XS mode, I might still be just thumping into third by 35, and it holds a long time before going into forth. (a few seconds) Now, you’d think it would be the opposite… upshift faster in economy mode, hold gears longer in perf mode. The motorcoach’s Allison shift pad has an economy mode. That holds ranges longer on uphills, and upshifts faster otherwise. (Gets into the highest range ASAP) If the Commander didn’t feel somewhat ‘’doggy’’ in mileage XS mode, I’d swear the Flashpaq programs are mislabeled and backwards. :D I’d think a gas engine’s transmission in economy mode should act like the diesel’s Allison.


And, those *&%$#@! photos in the other post are gone AGAIN. I'll move 'em tomorrow to another host site. Jeese louise.

Excellent write-up with useful information. I will be purchasing mine in mid October.

Adondo,

Did you measure out your tire circumference to get you actual tire height? I was getting MUCH higher mileage after I flashed with the 87 perf mode and reset my tire size to what the manufacturer published (31.48). But I noticed that trips that used to take about 2.5 miles (on stock tires) were taking a bit longer according to the odometer. Sure enough I measured yesterday and the tire size is not as claimed by BFG. I had to adjust it down by .25 inch. I am sure this will bring the mileage more in check (epically over longer drives) .

Haven't measured the tires. Maybe I should since they're not factory Fortunas. The GPS agrees with the speedo though, so it must be close.

The traffic is even worse today, on day two of the closure. The newspaper says 60,000 to 70,000 cars a day cross that bridge, so closing it just funnels that many cars thru town.

I was irritated today, and drove like a madman. That thing becomes a rocket sled in 87 perf mode. Even at than, with bleach burn offs from half the lights, :D it's showing 11.0 MPG. That's only 0.5 MPG less then gutless economy mode. :)

On edit: I moved the photos to ANOTHER hosting site. Maybe NOW they'll show up!

Another edit:
I decided to take the long way around to work today. We have three bridges over the Columbia River here, and one is now closed. They’re redoing the exchange on the south end, and it’s shut down for 9 days. What a major PITA. It’s the one on highway 395, so needless to say, that generates a LOT of detour traffic.

Anyway, the route to work is about 20 miles that way - west on I-182 to highway 240 and back around east to Kennewick. (It’s a large round-about loop going that way) It’s mostly freeway except when I take an exit into Kennewick for the last two miles or so. (Normally, it’s only 6.5 miles to the shop)

The first thing I noticed while climbing the 5% slope leading out of Pasco, is the vacuum gauge holds around 5 to 7 inches. The last time I went that way, the XK was in stock mode before I got the Flashpaq. The same run was right after installing the vacuum gauge. Up the same hill, it read zero inches. In other words, the engine was about maxed out in overdrive to maintain 70. Now, in perf 87 mode, I easily accelerated to 80+ MPH. It just feels like it’s ‘’ready to go’’ It’s no longer ‘’just holding its speed’’ at that speed up that hill.

I reset the dash monitor again, and the MPG ended up at 14.6 on the run. I was doing about 75 as I paced the traffic mass. It never climbed any higher than 14.6, and dropped to 12.9 or so by the time I got to the shop. Granted, that’s a short run for much of a MPG test… :D

Tomorrow, it’s still on for the Oregon run. It’s about 35 miles to Hermiston where I’m meeting up with guys in a company truck, and I’ll reprogram to Mileage XS again for that test. It’s hilly that direction too, so we’ll see how it does in ‘gutless’ mode. I’ll refill before going and after coming back, so we’ll get a real world MPG rather than only the dash computer. It’ll be a 70 or so mile round trip, since the Jeep will stay at that shop while we take the truck from there.

It would be nice if the mileage XS mode can somewhat offset a lift kit and wind catching roof rack. :D If it does what I think it might do, then from now on, I’ll program for mileage XS mode on road trips, and change to performance 87 mode when hitting the off road trails, and back to mileage mode again for the trip home.

Later this fall, I plan on pulling the boat out. She’s been in the marina for a couple of years, and the bottom is ‘’hairy’’ with green algae. She can’t go much over 15 MPH anymore because of all the drag. Reprogramming to towing mode will be handy since she weighs about 5,000 lbs. on her trailer.

Well, hmmmm. I’m unimpressed. A 96.4 mile round trip and a measly 15.1 MPG. The plans changed somewhat since the other guys went on to Pendleton for something else, so I just drove the Jeep all the way to Irrigon to work on the radios at the fish & wildlife office.

I had a head wind on the way there, but that should’ve been offset on the way back. The route is hilly, and maybe the engine was just bogged down. I watched the loading figures on the monitor mode, and it was in the upper 90’s (percent) at times. Most of the time, it was 40% to 50% and it jives with low vacuum readings too.

I reprogrammed back to 87 performance mode again since I like how it drives. I think I’ll leave it there for a while now, (couple of tanks of gas worth) and see if the MPG goes up after the ECM ‘’relearns’’ my driving (bad) habits.

I’m wondering if the engine’s conservative settings in mileage XS mode makes it work too hard on hills.

Also, the ECT (Engine Coolant Temp) runs right at 200 degrees. That seems high to me. Even on a long downhill run, it’s holding at 198. I guess the T’stat is set that high. I wonder if the knock sensor doesn’t have to work the timing around detonation that might not be there at 180 degrees?

My apologies, by the way, to a49erFan for hijacking his thread. :D

Adondo,

Thanks for the info. This is on my wish list. Currently it is sitting on AutoAnything for $339.

Question about off roading, Can you lock the Diffs in high range or is that just a JK thing? What about the transfer case? I wasn't sure if diffs on the QDII were electric locking or mechanical.

Thanks,
-Rob

I have QTII which is a locking center diff, but not axles. The QDII adds locking axles. Or, at least electronic clutch packs. There doesn’t seem to be anything for that, so probably JK’s only there. I think I read that somewhere anyway. (Superchips forums, manual, etc.)

So far it’s been holding at 13.5 MPG around town in perf 87 mode. That’s only 0.5 MPG away from the built-up-over-time average of 14.0 on fuelly.com, which includes highway mileage in the average. I’m thinking’ it’s gonna’ stay as it is for a while. :D If it works, don’t… well, you know. :D

We’re heading to central Oregon for the rest of the week, but that’s in the coach sans Jeep. Hopefully, next week, after Goodwill picks up the left over garba.., garage sale crap, er, I mean worthwhile resalable merchandise, I can take the Jeep on a road trip/off road run somewhere. We’ll have to see what perf 87 mode does with a ‘’relearned’’ ECM on the highway.

One real wierdism though… when I reprogrammed from eco to perf mode after filling the tank last, I suddenly had no radio audio. CD’s, FM, or satellite, nothing. I went all the way back to the shop with a dead radio. What brought it back was opening and shutting the door after turning off the key. When the door was shut and the key turned back on, suddenly all was well. ?!? And has been ever since. O… …kay.

The cheapest I have found so far is $307.23 brand new. Truck customizers website.

I have QTII which is a locking center diff, but not axles. The QDII adds locking axles. Or, at least electronic clutch packs. There doesn’t seem to be anything for that, so probably JK’s only there. I think I read that somewhere anyway. (Superchips forums, manual, etc.)


The site says that the diffs will lock in high. Since I put in that I had the 5.7 it assumes QDII, I guess.


One real wierdism though… when I reprogrammed from eco to perf mode after filling the tank last, I suddenly had no radio audio. CD’s, FM, or satellite, nothing. I went all the way back to the shop with a dead radio. What brought it back was opening and shutting the door after turning off the key. When the door was shut and the key turned back on, suddenly all was well. ?!? And has been ever since. O… …kay.

I believe this is a Sirius thing. I was having an issue awhile ago with the satalite and the first test that they make you do is the door trick.

-Rob

The cheapest I have found so far is $307.23 brand new. Truck customizers website.

4Wheelonline.com has a 25% off sale, $213. No tax or shipping costs.
http://4wheelonline.com/jeep/Products.aspx?CategoryId=97295&ProductId=257713

Truck Customizers (http://www.truckcustomizers.com/products/superchips-flashpaq-tuner-jeep-wrangler-cherokee.html) has a cool spread sheet on the options of the 3875. Yes to the 4WD-Hi Axle Lock with the Hemi.

4Wheelonline.com has a 25% off sale, $213. No tax or shipping costs.
http://4wheelonline.com/jeep/Products.aspx?CategoryId=97295&ProductId=257713


Did you mis-type? I see i at $312 not $213.

Dyslexic moment. Yeah, $312, but like TprGTO said, even less at Truck Customizer. Wife didn't balk at the suggestion, so I think I'll be shopping soon.

-Rob

I got excited when I saw the $213. I'vw seen ot at Autoanything.com for $320/free shipping. When that comes back around I'll bite.

I got excited when I saw the $213. I'vw seen ot at Autoanything.com for $320/free shipping. When that comes back around I'll bite.

With Bing Cashback at 12% for autoanything, final price would be $299 with free shipping. Looks like it's time for you to bite.

Edit: Seems autoanything.com has 10% off orders of $150 or more (code BLOWOUT). That means final price would be $339 with 10% off = $305. With Bing Cashback, it should end up at $268 with free shipping.

Didn't know about that. Will check into. Thanks!

When in the Superchip towing mode, do I still engage the tow button that is on my Commander or do I leave it off?

When in the Superchip towing mode, do I still engage the tow button that is on my Commander or do I leave it off?

I had the same question, I think I finally settled on using the button.

I used the button + tow program last weekend with the popup and found that my gas mileage went down about 1mpg over stock programming and the tow button. Has anyone else encountered this?

Just filled up for the Crown King run and found that I got 14.1 MPG on my last trip home from Sedona. Best Mileage in a long time.

Finally got around to a road trip. The first fuel up was a mixed bag, which included hauling a big load of trash to the dump. (Garage sale left overs that wasn't Goodwill worthy. :) )

Filled in Dayton WA, after driving on what was left from the dump and daily commuting. The second fillup showed 18.5 on the computer, but then I didn't fillup until Sunday. We'd driven around town shopping etc. so the MPG went down a bit, but was still 16.4. Not bad, and it's still in performance 87 mode.

BTW, the computer showed the MPG dropping as we drove around town again, and it was close to the final Fuelly calculation.

Tonight, I gotta' go down to the boat (marina) and blow out the heater lines. (As well as everything else above the waterline) I'll refill after I get back so I don't muddy it up with around-town commuting again.

We do not effect the tow haul button or it's function so you can use it as you would normally along side our tow setting.

Scott

I lied. I did go down and blow out the boat engine/heater core. I went out for a little bit to, if nothing else, the charge up her batteries.

On the way back, I couldn't help myself... I went cross country and/or off-roading up and over the Horse Heaven hills. I followed a couple of deep canyons, and went up and over the top of a radio site hill. So much for a freeway test of MPG. The computer showed about 13 doing that though, so it wasn't bad at all.

Really good info about the superchip in this thread ,, thank you guys.

Any one with stock HEMI have ever measured the 0-60 time with superchip programmed to performance?