COBB Tuning Blog

 

AccessTUNER allows custom tuning of Nissan and Infiniti ECUs to extract maximum power for virtually any performance modification, including forced induction. Engine tuners can create custom calibrations for vehicles equipped with aftermarket intakes, exhausts, cams, turbos, superchargers or any combination of performance modifications. The results are impressive gains in power and torque with all of the drive-ability and sophistication inherent in the OEM ECU.

AccessTUNER puts control of vital engine parameters into the hands of the tuner, such as intake cam advance, exhaust cam advance, fuel, ignition, knock, engine rev limiter, speed limiter and many more. Customizable data monitors let the tuner choose which channels are monitored to see how changes impact the behavior of the engine. The built-in data logging capability captures data from multiple channels across the entire rev-range, allowing detailed data analysis after a dynamometer test. 3-D graphical mapping gives the tuner a comprehensive view of engine behavior across three axis to evaluate where performance can be maximized. An integral dashboard shows the tuner-chosen gauges to be displayed during the tuning process.

AccessTUNER Pro is tuning software for professional tuning facilities. AccessTUNER Pro allows for unlimited tuning of any AccessPORT-equipped Nissan 370Z, Nissan 350Z, Infiniti G37 and Infiniti G35. The professional tuner can choose to lock the map in order to prevent unauthorized reproduction of the map or inappropriate use on other vehicles. Contact COBB Tuning Sales at 801-713-0443 or [email]wholesale@cobbtuning.com[/email] for more information regarding acquiring a Nissan-Infiniti AccessTUNER Pro license.

For the Month of July, AccessTUNER Pro will be discounted 40% for all new ProTuner Licenses. Additional discounting is available to current ProTuners. Please contact Sales at 801-713-0443 or wholesale@cobbtuning.com for additional details. AccessTUNER Race Beta is self-tuning software for the end user. AccessTUNER Race has all of the tuning power of AccessTUNER Pro, but is married to a single AccessPORT. AccessTUNER Race Beta maps can be shared with other AccessTUNER Race Beta users. COBB Tuning Nissan-Infiniti Tuning Guides are designed to walk the user through the steps necessary to properly tune the ECU in a safe and straightforward manner. AccessTUNER Race Beta is free of charge to AccessPORT customers and can be downloaded by filling out the AccessTUNER Race Beta registration page.

COBB Tuning is dedicated to improving the AccessPORT line of products for Nissan and Infiniti enthusiasts. The release of AccessTUNER software is the first step in an intense program to bring COBB Tuning products to the forefront of the Nissan and Infiniti performance markets. Stay tuned for more exciting news in the near future.

AccessTUNER Race for Nissans
350Z 2003-2006
350Z 2007-2008
370Z 2009

AccessTUNER Race for Infinitis
G35 2003-2006
G35 2007-2008
G37 2008-2009

AccessTUNER Pro for Nissan & Infiniti
Nissan-Infiniti

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Vorshlag Motorsports brought their Time Trial and Autocross EVO X out to the 10 Year Anniversary Bash for Motorsports Ranch in Cresson, TX. This member appreciation event gathered many of the 800 members plus guests, vendors and shop staff. Vorshlag Motorsports and Yokohama Tire teamed up to offer ride-alongs to all comers and give them a taste of EVO power and Advan grip around the 1.3 mile circuit.

The folks at COBB Tuning Plano used some of their extensive racing background to help prepare the car for this event. Calibration Specialist Calvin Dotson tuned the EVO X using the AccessPORT hand-held ECU flashing device and AccessTUNER Pro tuning software on the in-house Mustang 500 SE AWD dyno. COBB Tuning swaybars for the EVO X were installed to help reduce body roll and improve cornering balance. The setup was completed with a custom racing alignment on the shop’s Hunter Optical Aligner and Align 200 software.

The Vorshlag EVO ran for seven hours straight in 100F temperatures without missing a beat. Three drivers traded the driver seat to keep the EVO on-track and entertaining passengers. Straights starting in 2nd gear and ending in 5th gear at speeds of 110mph, through the day’s relentless heat, gave riders an appreciation for COBB AccessPORT power. Eye-opening  grip in the corners showed passengers what is possible with a properly set-up suspension and a sticky tire like the Advan 048. The end result was impressive speed that kept the Vorshlag EVO X passing every car on the entire day.

Read the full write-up and see event photos over at the Vorshlag Motorsports Forum.

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COBB Tuning releases self-tuning software to Civic Si AccessPORT owners

COBB Tuning announces the release of AccessTUNER Race Beta for the AccessPORT-equipped Honda Civic Si. The AccessPORT is the only hand-held OEM ECU flashing, managing and monitoring device available for the 2006-2009 Honda Civic Si. When combined with AccessTUNER Race software, the result is an unrivaled, self-tunable engine management system with all of the sophistication and drivability inherent to the factory ECU.

This initial release of AccessTUNER Race provides full support for Naturally Aspirated Honda Civic Si’s. Full access to fuel, ignition, intake camshaft phasing, DBW throttle, VTEC window, knock sensitivity, intake air temp and engine cooling temp tables allow complete tuning customization. Take advantage of the efficiencies gained with aftermarket intakes, headers, exhausts, cams and other bolt on modifications to extract the maximum power available. Further customization allows the user to set the launch control RPM, rev limiter and speed limiter to their personal preferences.

Software features include:

• Integral Data logging: Unlimited data logging of multiple channels of data from the ECU for detailed analysis of engine performance.
• Integral Dashboard: Shows tuner chosen gauges to be displayed on-screen throughout the tuning process.
• Unit Conversion: Ability to easily convert between metric and standard units so the tuner can use units he/she is most familiar with.
• Map Database: Free access to a map database from COBB Tuning that provide excellent starting points for specific modifications.
• Hot Keys: Convenient on-touch short-cut keys allow easy data manipulation of common tuning operations
• Open WBO2 Interface: Integrates with a wide selection of Wideband O2 sensors
• Embedded Stock Data: Stock tuning data (ROMs) are self-contained inside the software itself, providing the OEM baseline tune for each vehicle supported by the software
• Includes full Tuning Guide and Worksheets to help tuners with data analysis and creating new maps
• Free software updates

Ongoing developments for DTC code elimination and Forced Induction tuning are well underway and updates to the software will be available in the near future. Enhancements will include eliminating O2 sensor codes, supporting multiple brands of upgraded MAP sensors, support for larger fuel injectors, Speed Density (MAP Only) tuning logic and Hybrid Mode (active stock MAF+MAP vs. MAP only logic switching) tuning logic.

To download AccessTUNER Race, visit CobbTuning.com - AccessTUNER Race - BETA Release and fill out the survey. You will be required to enter the serial number of your AccessPORT. Once the information in the survey is filled out, the software will be made available for download within 24 hours. Get a head start on tuning by downloading the Honda Civic Si Tuning Guide to brush up on the critical aspects of tuning for maximum power and reliability.

AccessTUNER Race Beta currently operates on Windows XP and Windows Vista 32-bit operating systems.

With the robust interactive features of the AccessPORT, extensive software and service based tuning options and outstanding COBB Tuning customer support, it is easy to see why the COBB AccessPORT is the top engine management choice for Honda Civic Si enthusiasts. Access the Potential of your Civic Si today!

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COBB puts power in the hands of Civic Si owners

COBB Tuning announces immediate availability of the AccessPORT for the 2006-2009 Honda Civic Si. The AccessPORT is the industry’s premier hand-held OEM ECU flashing, managing and monitoring device. The AccessPORT is the first hand-held device available for the Honda Civic Si that performs an ECU flash through the vehicle’s OBDII port. Just plug it in, load the maps and go! Faster!

Unlock power hidden within the ECU by replacing conservative factory settings with more aggressive calibrations. The result is impressive gains in torque and horsepower while maintaining a high degree of safety. The AccessPORT comes with pre-installed maps that are optimized for common performance modifications. Performance gains across the entire power band can be quickly realized in the short time it takes to flash the vehicle’s ECU with the AccessPORT. No tools are required. No additional “piggy-back” hardware. No mailing the factory ECU across the country. No vehicle downtime. No waiting. Just plug the AccessPORT in, flash the ECU and enjoy the thrill of increased torque and horsepower!

Flashing the ECU for increased performance is just the start of what the AccessPORT is capable of. Set the AccessPORT to Performance mode to capture 0-60MPH times, ¼ Mile times and Trap Speeds. The dynamometer simulator shows performance differences between maps/mods. Switch over to Live Data and choose a data channel to monitor, such as; Actual AFR, Barometric Pressure, Coolant Temp, Fuel Trims (short and long), Ignition Advance, Intake Temperature, MAP, Mass Airflow, Intake Valve Advance, VTEC Status and many more. The built-in data logger allows easy recording of monitors for detailed analysis of the vehicle’s performance. Troubleshooting mode is for diagnosing issues by reading trouble codes and clearing them once issues have been resolved.

The AccessPORT can be used to eliminate separation anxiety when you are away from your vehicle. Protect your investment when out on the town by loading the Valet map to prevent the engine from revving above 3,200 rpm. Load the Anti-Theft map when you park to make it impossible to start. And in the event the car must be returned to its stock configuration, the AccessPORT can be completely uninstalled and the ECU restored to its factory condition.

The upcoming availability of AccessTUNER Pro and AccessTUNER Race will allow professional engine tuners and experienced end users alike to custom tune any combination of modifications to achieve their maximum power potential. This duo of powerful tuning applications will allow tuning flexibility from minor tweaks of base maps all the way to complete custom map authoring. Stay tuned for more information regarding AccessTUNER Pro and AccessTUNER Race availability in the near future.

The new AccessPORT for the Honda Civic Si will help satisfy your hunger for more power, flexibility and control.  Access the Potential of your Honda Civic Si today!

Honda Civic Si AccessPORT Features:
• Increase horsepower and torque with the touch of a button
• Easy installation requiring no tools or computer skills
• Upgrade firmware and download calibrated maps over the internet
• Display performance with 0-60MPH and 1/4 Mile times and Trap Speeds
• Evaluate performance gains using the dynamometer simulator
• Monitor data such as AFR, coolant temp, ign adv, VTEC and many more
• Data log sensor monitors for in-depth analysis of performance
• Troubleshoot by viewing and clearing trouble codes
• Valet and Anti-Theft modes help prevent abuse and theft
• Completely and easily un-installable

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This is WALL-E, Surgeline Tuning’s new rotated-mount turbo kit jig. This kit, which is being made in-house for shop manager, Brandon Lumpkins’ new build, is a one-off based on a set of Gruppe-S equal-length headers and a custom uppipe fabricated by lead technician, Dustin Harris. The turbo is a Garrett 35R with a .63 Tial exhaust housing. The kit is awaiting a downpipe which will be fabricated once the engine is dropped into Brandon’s 2002 WRX sedan. This, along with an in-house built, forged bottom end with Cosworth heads and cams and a big dose of E85 should be good for over 500whp. Stay tuned as Surgeline will be making some revisions to this setup, including a Cosworth intake manifold and more photos!

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This week we added another member to our family at our COBB Tuning Plano, Texas facility. Chris Flemming changed his Subaru-loving ways and bought a 2009 Mitsubishi EVO X MR. Chris tells us why he left the world of Subaru behind for the “dark side.”

After 12 years working for and driving Subaru’s, I just about can’t believe it myself!  My first experience with the Evolution X was on my last trip to COBB Tuning headquarters in Salt Lake City, Utah.  On that trip I had a chance to drive all of the shop cars including the X, which I drove most of all.  This is when my interest was piqued.  I liked the seats, driving position and responsive steering much more than driving the the shop’s 2008 STI.  Since starting COBB Plano and working on a relationship with Don Herring Mitsubishi, I have had a chance to see many EVO Xs here in the shop and tuned on the dyno. 

The EVOs consistently make great power and the SST transmission in the MR is, frankly, amazing.  I chose an MR because of the SST transmission, I like it, and my wife who can drive, but does not like to drive manual transmissions can drive it.  It also helps that it is a four door since I have 2 small children!  The X feels alive right out of the box and all of the latest Subarus don’t.  As I said earlier, I like the driving position, the MR’s seats are amazing, the SST in Super Sport shifts incredibly smoothly and quickly, the differentials give the car an eerie level of grip, similar to the feeling you get driving a GTR, handling-wise. 

Perhaps the only thing to complain about is the poor fuel economy, but since I intend to go stage 2 on the car, I guess fun outweighs frugality. I have only added a clear bra (a sublet service we offer through Modern Armor.com), but I intend to put our downpipe, catted test pipe, catback, hard pipe kit, springs and sway bars.

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Over the weekend, our very own Jon Pomrenke took a slightly modified STI to the second tier of the podium at the 2009 Farmington, NM National Tour. Jon is an avid autocross driver and competes on a regular basis here in Salt Lake City as well as around the Southwest. While he was not at the helm of one of our shop cars, this STI was equipped with an array of COBB Tuning go-fast parts including an AccessPORT with a custom STU map. Read Jon’s tale of cone-dodging below. If you need any advice on Autocross setup or pointers, give COBB Tuning a call.

We ran Farmington in a 2006 STI. This was the first full event I’d  driven that car, having dabbled in it a few times before. The weekend prior I did some comparison runs by running COBB’s 2008 STI in the morning, followed by the 2006 STI in the afternoon.

We went to Farmington on a new set of tires we had never driven on; shaved Bridgestone RE-11s. The different tires need a different suspension setup so we spent all of the test-n-tune trying to dial out
understeer. Lacking the resources to make a drastic suspension change, we had to run with the understeer.

With little seat time in the car, I ran a very conservative first run to ensure I had a clean time to stand on. I then followed it by an aggressive second run, cutting 1 second off my time but clipping a cone.
My third run matched the second one, but was wreckless and dirty once again. I stood on my first run Saturday and entered Sunday in 4th place, roughly .9-seconds behind the leader. If cones weren’t a factor, I had the fastest and third-fastest scratch times in STU for Saturday.

I changed my strategy Sunday and ran an aggressive first run to ensure I wouldn’t be so far behind if I stood on my first run. I catapulted up into 2nd place- others were fighting cones. For my second run I cleaned up some sections but coned. I knew all I needed to do was fix the Chicago boxes, and the sweeper following them, and I could find another .5-second. I took care not to change any other sections of the course and focused on cleaning up those boxes. Sure enough, my last run was like my second, but with better lines through the boxes. I narrowed the 1st-2nd lead to .237-seconds.

The competition in STU was the strongest of all the classes with any of five different drivers capable of winning. The courses were a mixture of tight and technical, both days being very cone intensive. A few of the drivers fought cones all weekend. Without cones, the STI would have had the lead by .009-seconds. With the cones, the STI trailed by .237-seconds.

Car Specs:
2006 Subaru STI
COBB SS 3-inch Turbo-Back Exhaust
AccessPORT, custom STU map
AST 4200 Coil-overs
COBB Tubular Anti Swaybars, front and rear
COBB Adjustable Rear Mount
COBB Knob
Kosei K1-TS 17×9-inches
Bridgestone RE-11 245/40-R17
Sparco Evo seats

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While we would all like to think that we have the stuff that real race car drivers are made of, there are a few of us that actually do. Cameron Bennar is one of those fortunate few. When Cameron visited a Skip Barber racing school a year ago, the instructors and his father alike quickly realized that he had a natural gift for driving. So with this is mind, Cameron was encouraged to find his way into the world of racing. With his dad at his back, Cameron purchased a 2006 STI and prepped it for regional Improved Touring E class (ITE).

The rules for ITE are very simple: there are very few rules. ITE is a “run what ya brung” class that allows all kinds of modifications as long as the car retains its stock shell and stock engine type and displacement. Otherwise, turbo modifications are unlimited as are aero aids, brakes, wheels and tires and all sorts of go-fast alterations.

With this in mind, Cameron brought the car to COBB Tuning Premier Facility, Surgeline Tuning, for some mild tweaks to help give Cameron a little more power and to get his feet wet in the world of racing.

With a larger Blouch Dominator 3.0R turbo mated to a COBB Tuning downpipe and a Perrin catback and a Perrin FMIC, tuned on a COBB AccessPORT, the car had a good 350whp on tap. With the addition of a Cosworth longblock, an Accusump oiling system and an oil pressure gauge as well as some heat protection for the engine bay, Cameron was ready to attack the track.

Since this would be Cameron’s first wheel to wheel race, he would have to wear the big orange noob “N” on his bumpers and flanks so that everyone else on the track would know to give him a wide berth. Sadly for the rest of the ITE field, Cameron’s freshly-sorted and Surgeline Tuning tuned car took Pole Position while running a conservative 15psi map. Running a 1:27 lap time, Cameron wowed the field with his speed and finesse.

 

However, it soon became clear that his stock brakes were not up to the task of serious wheel to wheel racing and as he found out in his first sprint race. While this was not the “feature” for which he held pole, it would be his first wheel to wheel race. Halfway through this 15-minute sprint, his brake pedal went to the floor.

The reason for this was quickly discovered, the pads had completely worn away leaving only warped and destroyed backing-plates. Luckily, Surgeline Tuning had a set of new pads in stock and COBB Tuning employee, Travis Geny, was able to help the fledgling team replace pads and bleed brakes so that the car would be ready for the 30 minute feature race.

With Cameron leading his class into turn two, it became clear that his biggest rival, a very well turned out NSX, had been sandbagging during qualifying and showed some speed that he had been hiding and took first place within the first few laps. However, Cameron battled back and soon the pair were running nose to tail lap after lap.

  

Sadly, Cameron’s brake troubles came back to haunt him once again and he quickly began to lose ground as his breaking distances became longer and longer. Thankfully, the gap to P3 was too big and Cameron was able to drive to a solid P2 finish in his first race weekend ever.

 

Before the car had even made it back to the shop for the post-race inspection, Cameron was already ready for the next set of upgrades that would allow him to take a P1 podium. To put Cameron’s second place into perspective, the first place NSX was running 295-wide tires compared to Cameron’s 235s. It was also running a huge amount of after market aerodynamic aids including canards, a front splitter and a huge rear wing, under body diffuser and a wide-body kit as well as huge front and rear brakes. Compare this to Cameron’s stock aerodynamics, stock fenders and stock brakes and it is clear that with some minor changes to his STI, Cameron should have no trouble taking the podium.

Stay tuned as we will keep you posted on Cameron’s achievements as the year progresses.

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