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The SCT unit that I got from 5 Star allows the user to save the factory tune. I used this option on the praries for a mileage comparision. After five months and more than 6000 kilometres using the 5 Star tune I really thought that I was getting better gas mileage. This was not the purpose of the tune, improved driveability was, but if the mileage improved it would be a modification that was paying for itself. With that in mind, at the beginning of the day I pulled out the SCT unit and the factory tune was re-installed. I drove 400 kilometres (250 miles) at about 98 KPH using the cruise control, for an average of 9.7 mpg. Then I reinstalled the 5 Star tune and drove 630 kilometres (almost 400 miles) at about 98 KPH using cruise control, for an average of 10.1 mpg. The prairie terrain gave me as close to identical driving conditions as I could find – without retracing my steps. This also removed the variable of mileage with old tires versus new or any other changes to the truck. This is not a scientific assessment, but a seat of the pants one. The 5 Star tune gave me 0.4 mpg better – I cannot say it will do that for you, but if it worked on my 15 year old truck then you will likely have similar results.
The view at Artist's Point, Washington is spectacular. There are hiking trails range from an easy hour to a challenging several days. We took a couple of the shorter hikes!In addition to saving on gas, the tune improved the way that the truck handled inclines that are typical in non-mountainous areas. Pre-tune the truck would downshift on the lightest incline and rev right up to maintain speed. The Ford V10 likes to rev, but it truly sounds like it is working and I found it irksome. The improved horsepower and torque with the tune, combined with a change in shift patterns, improved the driving comfort. The tune now allows torque to pull the RV up hills rather than dropping a gear and using high RPM. Earlier I mentioned that vans have a tendancy to roast feet. My wife will attest to the fact that items in her purse no longer melt if it is left on the floor by the engine cowl and her feet can rest anywhere in comfort. Fact, the floor temperatures are obviously cooler than they were previously.
To connect the SCT X4 programmer to the truck, you access the data port just under the dash below the steering wheel. That's my validation for including this photo of my adorable grandson, Emmett, who was on many of our mountain excursions! He was a great help during projects – any 10 minute task was guaranteed to take an hour or two while Emmett was my assistant!
The wildlife is fantastic but not as visible as you would think. Even so, we spotted Mountain Goats, Elk, Moose, and foxes to name a few. Grizzley Bear caution signs were up in several of the parks – fortunately for us, we didn't see any. I would have liked to have seen one from a safe distance.
In previous articles some readers have commented that video would be a great addition. Well, my daughter flew out to Kelowna to bring me my new WASPcam TACT. Actually, she came out because she missed her mom,sister, brother-in-law, and nephew! It didn't take too long to learn how to use and manipulate video using iMovie on my iMac. All things considered, the 5 Star Tuning update for my 2000 Ford V10 has already started paying for itself. When comfort is added into the equation, it was absolutely worth the money. My Carbotech brake pads performed flawlessly and are good for thousands of kilometres more. Great rubber like the Michelins simply provide knowledge that you are in contact with the road during all conditions. And, of course, ensuring that regular maintenance using superb Amsoil products is completed on your vehicle will go a long way in ensuring you have a trouble free trip. Now, will headers and a new exhaust be next? Or something else entirely?
If you are considering a tow vehicle, make sure you look at RV's too.
Sources
Platinum Diesel
Full Disclosure: I am an authorized Carbotech Brake Pad dealer in Canada.
