I'm new to the diesel world. Bought my 1st a few months ago...99 quad cab long bed, 5 speed. It came with a VanAiken programmer, so I don't know what it's like stock. I am removing the 3" exhaust and putting in a 4" turbo back from Jeg's. Thinking about installing the Quadzilla Max Mileage in place of my VanAiken. BUT:

I've been seeing mostly Smarty chips. Why? Are they more reliable, more affordable, easier to use, get more from them??? There are many different "chip" manufactures out there. Which one to use....

I definately want more HP but need the economy as well--at almost $3.00/gal--I feel in necessary to increase the 0-60, compaired to my gas trucks, cars and such.... it's a turd.
Looked at injectors, intakes, air boxes, and all that stuff...what actually works for HP gains, as well as economy?

Thanks from Houston, TX.

 

Welcome to DTR! Chain your checkbook down...

Just to help you on your terms, since "chip" isn't usually used to decribe power products on these trucks.

Programmer: Handheld device that reprograms the factory ECM with different software. Smarty is this type.

"Timing box"-- an add-on computer that adds up to 60hp primarily my manipulating timing, but also adds more fueling within the limits of the maximum the factory electronics will allow. The Quad XZT+ and Edge EZ and Van Aaken are "boxes" of this type.

"Fueling box"-- this taps directly into the injection pump for maximum power. These will add up to 120hp to a mild truck, and almost 180hp (with "competition" versions) to a really wild truck over having it off.

The Smarty is a programmer that has 10 separate softwares to allow you to better match your personal preferences, but because it is a programmer, it can't adjust as you drive--you have to park and re-program. It also has additional features like tire size correction and code reading which can be pretty handy.

A "box" like your Van Aaken will add power and that's it-- it's either on or it's off. Other boxes will vary, but they pretty much are always on or disconnected.

If all you want is more power, then a product like the Smarty is probably not your best value. What separates Smarty is the aggressive response to the loud pedal-- it can almost be like riding a skittish horse, where you breathe on the pedal and off you go! Some like it, some don't, but the number of software gives you options.

The Smarty is more of an intangible thing-- you're buying the "feel", not just more power.

If you strapped trucks to a dynometer, a Smarty will add up to 60hp total like many of the other products.

If you just want straight up HP for lowest cost, then the Van Aaken you have is all you need. There's no reason to get rid of it. If you want more power, add an adjustable TST box to it and you'll have all the power you could ever need.


Justin

 

One more choice is the "race box" coming out soon that will offer "on the fly power choices as well as several other "options" including those seen in programmers and others not yet described...