Hi Steve,

I applaud the responsible action about releasing s/w to the 'enthusiast' that could destroy his/her engine and also the desire to protect the company name in the event of a 'problem'

However, it could be argued that an 'enthusiast' could purchase a Link ECU and damage his/her engine in the same manner. I do not know of any restrictions in purchasing a Link from any source that would restrict you in this manner and I know of no malicious or derogatory posts/threads made towards the Link ECU.

Also DeltaDash seems a very comprehensive package and would seem to offer very good value for money but I wonder if a cheaper more basic version is needed for people who just wish to 'monitor' for safety reasons without the need for complex graphical functions? DeltaDash seems to be so comprehensive that maybe it would be better to have it as part of a package that allowed the 'enthusiast' to re-program their ECU!!!

Just some thoughts & comments.

Harry

Harry

I think the problem is that you're not replacing a component, just the data inside an exisiting item. To take your example; with a link you have to create an entire map including idle, cold-start, etc (well, modify the base one anyways). This puts most people off from trying it themselves, unless they already have a good idea of what's going on. I'd guess in excess of 95% of Link buyers get it mapped by an expert.

However, the reprogramming software can leave 75% of the existing map alone - the OE map handles base idle/cold start functions pretty well :) You can just tweak the area's necessary for your performance needs. This will lead to more people taking the plunge and experimenting, with potentially disasterous results.

It all forms too much of an association with EcuTek and the first blown engine will lead to 'flames all over the place' on these boards, as has been seen before.

I'd guess that as the product matures things will slowly change, but I completely agree with this approach to ensure the product makes it to market 'reputation intact'.

Of course, there's also the commercial aspect to consider :)

Richard

DeltaDash is Entirely seperate to DeltaEcu. The diagnostic software (DeltaDash) will, of course, be available to everyone.

Steve

Hi Dowser,
I can see your point, it's more likely the cost of the Link total package that stops the 'have-a-go' type 'enthusiast'. And as you say 95% probably get BR Dev. to do it!!

I have read 'flames' before hence I like the responsible approach taken by ECUTEK. I would like to see though a self 'tune' or something like that 'package' as I can see myself making use of it.


Harry

I could really use it too. Can see the problem of a car blowing up because of user error. I am happy to take the risk of blowing up my engine, hence I try and only undertake what I am capable of. Otherwise I would not be making various gizmos to bolt onto my ECU. The Ecutek way is SO much more elegant than this sort of piggyback/interceptor approach.

Hello all, I've been talking with John about his DIY-EBC project on i-club. You guys seem to have more technical conversations over here, which is nice.

In any case, I couldn't agree with John more about ELEGANCE of this solution. This software, properly priced, would basically eliminate piggy backs and even standalones in all but the hardcore racecars. I get tired of hearing people say that something like MOTEC is the ONLY way to go, when the OEM ECU is everybit as sophisticated.
If you've heard about Hondata, it accomplishes basically the samething with pre- '95 honda ECUs, except they have to replace ROM chips everytime they want to make a change. They've been doing brisk business for at least a year now, and i've not heard of any smearing of their reputation. I realize they are an American company, but perhaps you could ask them for some friendly advice from a peer in the industry? And that leads me to my next question: I'd gotten the impression that the consumer coddling that drives the American markets is less prevalant over there? (For instance, i just got back from a Rally where i had to stand in a single, small designated area, 50 meters from the course and spectate through trees, all in the name of "saftey"). In any case, thats ultimately your descion to make.

All that said :D, i was wondering if you have any reason to beleive that your software would be incompatible with US market ECUs. I would be delighted to volunteer mine, if you are in need of one to look at :)

Very very nice work, keep it up!

David