 Tony Duncan of FAST checks the computer prior to installing the FAST-FLASH programming |
To begin, the FAST-Flash was plugged into the Corvette’s computer system at the diagnostic port under the dashboard. During the first few moments of operation, the FAST-Flash reads and records the current engine and transmission parameters. The FAST-Flash is pre-programmed with two states of tune including performance and economy. In addition, the FAST-Flash incorporates three states of “cam technology tuning,” a FAST-Flash exclusive feature, allowing you to tune for three levels of camshaft performance including stock. Further adjustments are possible on an individual basis using the prompts offered in the display window. In the case of Charlie’s Corvette, we changed the following parameters:
- Torque management – The factory computer system settings actually retard the timing under hard acceleration to protect the vehicle’s drive train durability. In an application such as this where so many of the original systems have been altered, that was not needed. After all, it’s a Corvette, right?
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Compatibility with 93-octane fuel – figuring we wanted to maximize performance, the system was set for use with 93-premium octane allowing for increased timing.ADVERTISEMENT
- Cooling fans – The cooling fans were set to come on at 180 degrees rather than the stock setting of over 200 degrees. This allows the engine to reside in a cooler environment for better performance and less possibility of detonation.
- Transmission shifting – Not only did we raise the shift points in the transmission four mph, we increased the firmness of the shifting for better transmission performance and efficiency.
- Rev Limiter – We raised the engine rev limiter setting 200 rpm from 6000 to 6200rpm.
 The FAST-FLASH programmer first reads the computer parameters as currently used in you system. Next, the display screen walks you though the changes you would like to install into the system. If you want to return to the stock configuration, it can be simply completed at any time through the same display screen system. |
With the changes made in quick order, we let Charlie describe the differences he felt to his “new” ride. His final reaction to the performance changes:
“The throttle response is much improved. The car has only been together since May and it always felt like there was a hand on the front pushing it back. The FAST-Flash programming greatly improved the throttle response. It goes a lot better than before. It even let me know about the speedometer error so I could correct that with a change in the transmission gear. I’m very pleased with the changes we made.”
 Using the easy-to-read and follow display screen information, the FAST-FLASH programmer walks you through the various things you want to change, such as idle speed, engine rpm limiter and ignition timing. |
In today’s computer-controlled world of performance machines, it’s easy to get lost when it comes to realizing real-world, seat-of-the-pants improvements. With programmers such as the FAST-Flash unit, feeling the difference can be just like the good ‘ol days.
