By now everyone knows I'm not happy with the MPG on the DMX.
In an effort to improve the numbers I was looking at tuners (EFI live, MAX Energy from Hypertech, etc).
Anyway...in checking these things out I have had not 1, not 2, but 3 different mechanics in my town advise me against installing any tuner. They all said that it would lead to computer and injector (fuel/air) problems etc. The only way I could avoid that would be if I were to also go with upgraded injectors, a new intake and exhaust along with the programmer.
Since my truck has been totally trouble free (now where's that piece of wood to knock on???), they each told me I'd be better off living with the poor MPG.

Just thought I'd let folks know where I'm at on this.

I'm going on vacation to Phoenix soon and towing the RV. This will be the 1st long distance towing trip since we bought the truck...should be interesting.
I got 2 weeks to do whatever I'm going to do (if anything) to the truck.

Terry

 

A good exhaust and intake are good investments wether you tune it or not but, not necessary just to run a tuner. Being an lly engine I would invest in an aftermarket or oem lbz turbo inlet. Especially since you tow. But, again I would do that reguardless of a tuner. Start with the basics like intake and exhaust and if you still aren't happy with mileage throw a tuner on it. You don't need aftermarket injectors period. But, more air in and out will complement a tuner and vice versa.

 

Don't listen to any dealership. They don't know anything about aftermarket parts.

 

Well next week I'm taking this DMX on it's 1st Towing trip. Going from Seattle - Phoenix - Salt Lake then back to Seattle.
Will be towing my '03 27' 5'er. Gross weight on the trailer only 7800#'s so it shouldn't feel the weight too bad. Hoping for 14-16 mpg but more likely 11-12...UGH!
Wish I could find a tuner for sale that I could try out on the trip...I could turn it on/off and see the difference 1st hand.
I think if my MPG's are in that 11-12 range I just might trade the whole setup in on a Diesel Pusher MH...got my eye on one in Eugene, OR just in case.

Terry

 

If you want the best tuning there is for duramax then get efilive. It's custom tuning for your truck. If you would like more info on it send me your number In a PM.

 

I know what I have read and what others (darned near everybody) has said.
I REALLY would like to get one but those hundreds of $$$ they cost are working against me.
I am leery about finding a used one on Craig's List as I would probably get one that was broken or would not work for my yr. of truck.

We saved for over 2 years just to take this vacation so the cost of a tuners is a big deal for us. I just don't make much on my disability income.

Thanks for the offer Mr. Duramax sir.
Terry

 

Efilive is not any more than any other tuner. Cost is around 400

 

What EFI live are you getting for $400? (part number)

 

No part number? You can purchase a autocal for 500 or local tuner can use his v2 to flash in the tunes. 5 tunes I charge $450 single tune $300

 

Ok...here's the results.

Round trip on the DIC came to 10.3 mpg.
Hand calculated we got 10.8.
These numbers are so low that even a tuner is unlikely to bring them up enough to make us keep the rig so...

I got the trailer up for sale now and will most likely have the truck for sale by the end of summer.