Forum Discussion

JCMack's avatar
JCMack
Explorer
May 13, 2016

Reprogramming ECM on an 8.1 L engine

Just wondering if anyone has any comments using (Wait for me) company to reprogram their engine ECM. My RV is an 05 work Horse chassis, 8.1 and 5 speed Allison trany. Just trying to get more power up the hills. I know there are others RV specific performance companies offering this service at a much higher price point. Just trying to understand what you get to justify the cost differrance. Thanks
  • wa8yxm's avatar
    wa8yxm
    Explorer III
    I would not recommend reprogramming along,, but check out the ULTRA POWER system or Banks Power Pack ... These are the only two I would consider.

    I find my 8.1 with 5 speed allison has plenty of power.. Only twice has it ever let me down.. once on level ground (blew the engine) and once I had to drive the towed independent of the motor home (Once I dropped the towed it ACCELERATED up the hill).
  • I used Brazels and am very happy with the re-program. They had me give them a reading from my OBDII under normal driving conditions. I wanted the engine to have a little more power while out West in the mountains and that is what they gave me. I could have had it adjusted for better mileage but that was not a concern of mine. I kept my old ECM to revert back if I wanted to or in case I had an ECM failure on the road. I have kept what they changed and noticed an immediate improvement. I still have the old ECM sitting there. Check with Jon at Brazels. Brazels
    They can also reprogram your Allison transmission to shift in to overdrive sooner, or whatever you need operate your coach the way you need it for towing, economy, mountains, etc.
    My ECM was reprogrammed about 50,000 miles ago and I have not had any problems on my engine that is now around 90,000 miles.