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kw_00's avatar
kw_00
Explorer
Jul 07, 2016

Update fuel Milage after BB Tune

For any of you guys interested in a Black Bear tune and any fuel MPG increase I have just completed some testing of before and after on my truck. As I stated before, I didn't buy the tune to race, nor do I care to. I didn't buy it expecting diesel or big block performance. What I did get is what they said I would get. More power, less TQ management and some better Mpgs. The tranny is much improved in shifting and the truck feels lighter now, requires less throttle to get it going. So I have noticed around 1-2.5 mpgs better in the city. How? Well I drove an area that I have used as an control and then repeated the same after the tune. With similar conditions and using CC. Then stop and go traffic same time, location and flow. Hwy I have not noticed any different thus far. I got 17mpg on flat land in Fl at 70mph and the same after the tune. I think the increase in the city is from less throttle usage and reduced TQ management. Now I realize that there is always some margin, I did the best that I could do following a method that I have seen done before. So it s as accurate as possible. Overall I am very pleased with this purchase. I recommend them to any GM truck owner. I will say the truck is much improved over the original factory tune. I have not been able to test the 91 octane tune yet. This was done with the 87 tune. Later this month I may have to take a long trip up north for a week. If so then I will test the Hwy mpgs better. I have also noticed in some cases that the truck shows even better instant mpgs then before. The good about this tune is that you don't burn up the truck engine. Its well within the parameters of the engines design. Anybody on the fence like I was feel free to ask questions. I do recommend this company they have been great. The only thing that could be a problem for some: if you don't know how to use a computer and they only respond to email. They do go out of their way to make it work though and are very professional and stand behind there product.
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  • dodge_guy's avatar
    dodge_guy
    Explorer II
    Jul 15, 2016
    Great to hear! Yes the factory tune leaves a lot to be desired.

    As far as factory warranty goes, they have to prove the tuner was the reason for the failure. Most good dealers will look the other way when one comes through with one. I know our dealer did. It would have to be a catastrophic failure before they ever worry about it!
  • kw_00's avatar
    kw_00
    Explorer
    Jul 15, 2016
    Appreciate it, but no longer under warranty. Truck runs and drives much better with reduced TQ management, worth it to me.
  • drsteve's avatar
    drsteve
    Explorer
    Jul 15, 2016
    Keep in mind that with a tuner, you will kiss your factory powertrain warranty goodbye...


    Identifying Aftermarket Non-GM Calibrations


    For more details, refer to bulletins 08-06-04-033 (Gasoline Engines) and 08-06-04-006A (Diesel Engines).

    General Motors is identifying an increasing number of engine, transmission and catalytic converter part failures that are the result of non GM - aftermarket engine and transmission control calibrations being used.

    When alteration to the GM released engine or transmission control calibrations occurs, it subjects powertrain and driveline components (engine, transmission, transfer case, driveshaft and rear axle) to stresses that were not tested by General Motors. It is because of these unknown stresses, and the potential to alter reliability, durability and emissions performance, that GM has adopted a policy to cancel any remaining warranty coverage to the powertrain and driveline components, whenever the presence of a non-GM / aftermarket calibration is confirmed -- even if the non-GM control module calibration is subsequently removed.

    GM service bulletins 08-06-04-033 and 08-06-04-006 outline procedures to identify the presence of non-GM / aftermarket calibrations. GM recommends performing this check whenever a hard part failure is seen on internal engine or transmission components, or before an engine assembly or transmission assembly is being replaced under warranty. It is also recommended that the engine calibration verification procedure be performed whenever diagnostics indicate that catalytic converter replacement is indicated.

    If a non-GM calibration is detected by the dealership, follow the procedures outlined in the bulletin. Once documentation of the non-GM calibration has been received, and verification has taken place through GM, the remaining powertrain and driveline warranty will be canceled.
  • Thunderbolt's avatar
    Thunderbolt
    Explorer
    Jul 07, 2016
    My brother got 15-16 mpg with his stock 08 2500hd with the 6.0. I have an 03 and I have noticed a slight increase in mileage with the tune, but my carelessness left me with transmission damage from removing the torque management. I love the tune, but be careful with it.
  • SouthpawHD's avatar
    SouthpawHD
    Explorer
    Jul 07, 2016
    I've been waiting for 6 months for the Diablo tune. I already have the tuner itself, so I might end up selling it for the BB tune if they don't get their stuff together. So good know the BB is good.
  • Iraqvet05's avatar
    Iraqvet05
    Explorer
    Jul 07, 2016
    I have a Black Bear tuned ECM (for towing) and recommend it too. One thing I will say is that while I can run 87 octane, it will ping on heavy acceleration. I usually run mid grade gas when not towing and premium when towing the TT to keep the pre-detonation at a minimum.
  • 4LowNGo's avatar
    4LowNGo
    Explorer
    Jul 07, 2016
    Good to know. I been looking at the Diablo tuner but I might have to look into the Black Bear tuner as well for my 1500.

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