V2 Bama tune safe for the track?

[ShifterX]

So I picked up a 2011 GT/CS that’s all stock (currently) but came with JLT intake and a SCT x3 from Bama. Previous owner didn’t have many details on the tunes. He did remember doing data logs and sending the info back to Bama for retunes.

plugging it in I see three custom tunes listed.

87 Performance V2
93 Race V2
93 Cammed V2

Each tune also lists options that can be changed like idle rpm, redline, fan temps, global spark and a few more. A few questions…

1). Are these tunes any good? Are they safe to run at the track?
2). Does anyone know the differences between these tunes and what they do?
3). Can I use the data log feature of the X3 to check if these tunes are safe to run. What should I being looking for?

appreciate any help from those in the know. Thanks

 

[TMSBOSS]

Most folks here use track oriented tuners. AED is popular.
you may want to contact Bama and ask them.

 

[Mad Hatter]

You might want to check when the tunes were made as the early Bama tunes did not have the best reputation... and as mentioned by TMSBOSS above, big difference between a street tune and a track tune in terms of engine survivability . Some early generic canned tunes we saw turned off the knock sensors etc.

For relatively low cost, it would be a good idea to get an updated tune as the are continuously improving through experience, if you have a X3 that means its a OLD tune..

As for the tunes you have, it would be good to know what octane is the race tune set at? If you don't know, don't use it!

If you go to the sct website you can download software that makes data logging a lot simpler on a PC using the SCT, though the X3 might be a bit old, Seem to remember that datalogging was for the SCT X4. First simple thing to look for is if you have any knock at full throttle. To be honest, it can get pretty complicated and if you don't take the time to study in some detail. its much better/safer idea to get a good tuner like Shaun at AED to take a look at it for you and get a new tune.

Keep in mind, a bad tune can kill an engine in no time at all.

 

[ShifterX]

It’s clearly an older tune. Looks like the v2 version came out in 2015. I will load the tune to see how it drives on the street. Not too worried doing that consider the original owner did the same. However not sure about tracking it until I know what it is doing. Hopefully someone has some experience with Bama tunes. Otherwise I may need to get a fresh tune for track work.

if I do go with a new tuner, there is no reason I can’t use the x3 programmer I have, right?

 

[Mad Hatter]

Loading the tune should be fine, am pretty sure you can use the x3 to data log which any decent tuner will ask for.

 

[ShifterX]

Figured I would provide some updates on this. I decided to reinstall the JLT intake pipe and try the provided BAMA tunes. I downloaded the datalogging app from the X3 to see what it was doing. I did datalog some stock WOT pulls as a comparison.

Race Tune 93 octane: Started with this because its easy. Loaded it, and it wont rev past 3k. Not sure if this is an issue or intended but I don't like it. Wont use it.

Performance tune 87 octane: Seemed very similar to stock with a more sensitive throttle and seemed to pull harder. Here is what I pulled from the datalog doing WOT 3rd gear pulls.

Knock retard: value ranged from -2.5 to 0.0. I was running 93 octane
Timing advance: ranged from 16 to 24. 24 was the highest I saw.
AFR in lambda: ranged from .80 to.86. most of the pull around .83 or 11.7:1
STFT: ranged from .94 to 1.0, most of the run around .99

Its a cool day today and not representative of a mid summer track day, so keep that in mind. I am no expert but generally I would say this tune seems safe. The AFRs seem almost too rich and the timing advance seems modest. Plus the knock sensors work. Compared tp stock which the AFR was around .80-.82 and the advance around 22, it seems this tune is modestly more aggressive. My plan is to run it until I pickup a new intake manifold.

Appreciate any input on the data analysis from those in the know.

Thanks

 

[Mad Hatter]

Thats a pretty conservative tune with very few added HP. Not a fan of Bama canned tunes, they feel risky to me. Its much better to get a custom tune with some one who logs the car before, during and after the final tune. Shaun at AED is very good and the difference is truly night and day.

 

[blacksheep-1]

Not sure where you're located, but Phoenix Performance in PA, has a 4wd dyno and some great tuners like Kurt Rezzatano. FWIW, they also have a shock dyno, engine lab and a full fab shop.

 

[Mad Hatter]

Would be delighted to be near Phoenix Performance!!!