Mail Order Tuning

Why is LS Tuning Needed? Where do I start?

The majority of LSx & LTx (Late Model GM) vehicles can benefit from tuning, even in stock form. Using HP Tuners software, we modify many tables in the engine and transmission control modules that come together to make a big difference in power and responsiveness. Typically we modify things such as fueling (MAF and/or VE, VVE), timing, power enrichment, speed/rev limiters, transient modifiers, transmission upshifts & downshifts, torque management, and much more.

Even though these vehicles are built at factories, they can end up slightly different. Customers live in different places, use different gas, add some or no modifications.  Some vehicles are just better performers than others from the factory. Tuning helps level this playing field. We pick up where GM left off to help you get the most out of your build, or stock car. LSx & LTx mail order tuning can be a great bang for the buck.

How can I tune my vehicle?

All of our tuning is done with HP Tuners Software. There are two different ways to work with us remotely;

Mail Order Tuning
With mail order tuning, you send in your module(s) to us, we tune them based on your order sheet, and ship them back. For certain vehicles, we offer core or loaner programs, where we send a module to you (available programs). Some vehicles have an ECM that controls both engine and transmission, and some will have a separate transmission control module that only controls transmission functions. Most of our listings mention this but if you are unsure, contact us first.
Email/Remote Tuning
If you have HP tuners, we can do your tuning via email. You start by emailing us your stock file, and then we tune it and email it back. You then use our supplied configuration file to log the correct channels, and send it to us. We create an updated file and email it back, and we repeat this process until the tuner signs off on it.

The costs of these different options vary. You can check out our pricing here – Mail Order Tuning or give us a call for more assistance.

Common Mail Order Tuning Questions

Which cars do you offer chips for vs. sending in an ECM?

We offer mail order tuning for 1986-1993 TPI V8 cars, which is done on a piggyback adapter. The adapter plugs into your stock prom, and then the whole thing plugs back into the ECM. If we are tuning a 1986-1993 vehicle for you, you do NOT need to send in the ECM. We do NOT offer tuning for 1994-1997 LT1.

Our mail-in tuning begins with 1997+ LS based cars, or 98+ V6 based cars.

Is an ECM the same thing as a PCM?

Yes, ECM (engine control module) and PCM (powertrain control module) refer to the same thing. The industry generally uses the terms interchangeably.

Can I still drive my vehicle if I send in my computer for tuning?

No, the vehicle will not run without the ECM and/or TCM.

How fast is the turnaround if I send in my ECM?

Depending on workload, we typically process most mail order tuning within 24 hours. The header on our website is updated with current lead times. We are available Monday-Friday. We are closed on weekends and for major holidays. A note on couriers – UPS typically delivers to us in the morning. Fed Ex comes mid afternoon, and USPS doesn’t usually arrive until 4pm. If you are needing expedited turnaround please use UPS to get your module(s) here.

I can’t be without my vehicle but I don’t have HP tuners. How can I still obtain a mail order tune?

For most vehicles, we offer a core and a loaner program.  With the core program, we send you a tuned core PCM (and TCM if applicable). We start by using GM software to program your vehicle’s VIN & calibration, and then tune that file with HP tuners. Once you receive the core, you may send yours in back for the core refund (only if it is reusable), or retain both modules. If you choose to send in your stock PCM/TCM for the core refund, it must be postmarked with seven days of receiving the tuned PCM. The core program requires a CASE relearn and security relearn also.

Our loaner program sends you a stock PCM/TCM to borrow so that you can send in yours for programming. When we receive your PCM, we tune it and return it to you, and then you send in the loaner for the core refund. The loaner PCM may need a security relearn, but there are no CASE relearns required. NOTE: Expedited shipping on loaner programs only covers one shipment. To upgrade both shipments to express, please contact us!

How do I know if I have a separate TCM?

If you have a gen III LS controller (large silver box with two long connectors), the engine and transmission tuning will be controlled by the same unit. For a Gen IV controller (E40, E67, E38 etc) you will have a separate transmission controller (TCM). If you don’t know if you have a separate TCM or not, please ask before mailing. 4l60e/4l70e have removable T42 transmission control modules.  6l80e transmissions use a T43 which is part of the valvebody. 6l80e tuning is only available via HP tuners or in person for that reason. Gen V 2017+ transmissions can be six, eight, or ten speed – some 8/10 speeds can be unlocked and tuned, some cannot, please reach out individually for information on these.

I don’t see my vehicle on your list. Can you tune it?

If you don’t see your vehicle listed, you are welcome to chat, call or email sales@pcmofnc.com to ask if we can support it. For the most part if we can support it, it is already listed on the site, but there are a few exceptions. We do not currently support anything besides GM.

How does the remote tuning with HP tuners work?

We have an in-depth FAQ about email tuning here – Remote (Email) Tuning with HP tuners.

Do you do segment swaps?

We do not do segment swaps for 4l80es. We do however offer a plug and play harness for swaps that does not require it – 4l80e Swap Harness.

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