Throttle Controllers 101: Different Types and Installation Explained
Today's vehicles operate thanks to a wide variety of wire harnesses, electronic sensors and switches as well as a computer or multiple of them that control everything. The same goes for the throttle body which is operated either by a PCM (powertrain control module) or an ECM (engine control module.
To improve the opening and closing of the throttle plate a throttle controller can be used which hooks up to the module via the ECU. A throttle controller or commander is a small device that can fit in your hand and with clever programming it can make your vehicle act a lot differently with the throttle pedal down. Look at it as a legal tune that isn't really that but more of a change in electrical signals.
Types of Throttle Controllers
source: autoone.com.au |
Standard
A throttle body controller comes in two different forms in terms of its capabilities. The more affordable version is a base or standard unit that lets you set the mode in which you want to drive. You should shop standard car throttle controllers if you want to just improve either the performance or efficiency of your vehicle so that it lasts longer and doesn't become unusable rather quickly. You can create your own modes but the parameters you can change are quite limited and so is the number of modes you can make.
Advanced
With an advanced vehicle throttle controller you can set up different modes to your liking and adjust half a dozen parameters with each. Advanced controllers also come with displays that show you information about your car such as boost levels, acceleration times and G-forces. You can also use an advanced controller or programmer as it's also called an OBD scanner as long as the device comes with such capabilities. This makes it cost a lot more than a base model.
Installing a Throttle Controller
1. A vehicle throttle controller is installed without he use of any tools and with your car parked on flat level ground. The controller needs to be connected with the vehicle turned off but before you do that you need to disconnect a connector.
2. This is the original connector which sits plugged into the throttle pedal from behind it. Once that's removed, find the plug provided with the electronic throttle controller and connect it where the original connector was.
3. After that, plug in the piggyback connector, which is usually also supplied with the throttle controller, into the back of it. Follow that by plugging in the original plug into the back of the piggyback connector.
4. With all the necessary connections made, place the controller on the dashboard anywhere you want as long as it isn't in the way of other controls. Make sure to route the cable from it to the throttle pedal through the steering column so that it doesn't hang between your knees or get tangled somewhere.
5. With the controller in place, turn it on and then turn on the ignition. Once you do that, the device will let you select between two letters or numbers depending on the model, one signifying an automatic transmission and the other a manual transmission vehicle.
6. Once you choose the correct letter/ number, select the mode you want to drive in and go for a spin. See how your vehicle behaves on and off the throttle and either change to a different mode or create one accordingly. If you're not sure which mode to go for or how to fine-tune the one you create go for the AUTO mode which makes the device decide for you.
Benefits of Throttle Controllers
Performance
The biggest reason why people shop car throttle controllers is to improve their performance be it on the track or on the motorway. Throttle controllers make for a snappier throttle response and thus quicker acceleration be it from a standstill or at motorway speeds. How you adjust the device determines how responsive your car will be.
Efficiency
If you aren't after performance you can still get a vehicle throttle controller and benefit from it. You can adjust it or set it to a mode that favours fuel efficiency and this makes the throttle pedal less responsive so that you don't get to accelerate as quickly. If you drive in stop-and-go traffic frequently doing this can help you lower your monthly expenses.
Longevity
With a vehicle throttle controller, especially if set to save fuel as long as possible, you can improve the longevity of the throttle body, engine and the vehicle overall. Any component or system that isn't strained as much is able to work properly for a longer time thus increasing it's lifespan and the longevity of your car.
Final Words
No vehicle is made the same and thus no throttle controller can be set up the same. Depending on the engine and size of the vehicle you need to adjust your differently from your mate's unless you have the same car.
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