Australia - The diesel engine experts part 2
Now for all of you that have had the opportunity to visit or even live in Australia, you will quickly understand that this is a country that has a love affair with diesel engines. They do love their petrol (gas) engines as well but be warned there is no better way to start a full on debate by the camp fire than asking a questions seemingly innocent as: "What 4WD engine is best, diesel or petrol?". Put on your flame retardant gear and stand back!
Seriously though, I had never given much thought to playing with engines to gain additional performance. I've now changed my view on this or perhaps I've just been in Australia too long now... :sombrero:
I approached these modifications similarly to any others:
- Seek out professionals in their respective fields.
- Use only quality gear (even if you want to cry at the price tag).
I was fortunate enough to pick up this vehicle with two very important upgrades already included:
- 3" exhaust system
- Steinbauer performance chip
The next items that were installed:
- Autron boost and Exhaust Gas Temperature gauges (more on this later)
- Larger intercooler
Each of these items helped the big diesel breath better, get more fuel into the engine, monitor engine conditions and keep cool when pushed hard.
The final and most crucial step for this round of modifications was to spend time with a diesel tuner. Again, after quite a bit of research I was off to Toowoomba QLD to meet the crew at
Diesel Care. I had met Andrew Bourne the Director of Diesel Care previously at the Brisbane Camping and 4WD Show. He's a wealth of knowledge and has been working in the diesel engine repair and performance industry for 30 years. Diesel Care also happen to be the Australian importer for Steinbauer performance modules. I knew that the Cruiser would be in good hands. We spent some time discussing my application, requirements and what I was hoping to achieve out of the tuning session. The overarching principle was to maintain reliability as this vehicle is used in remote areas of Australia. It is also used for towing and for 4WD duties. So what was the outcome you ask...
The power measured at the wheels changed from 79 Kw (107 Hp) to 93 Kw (126 Hp) for peak values. The torque changed from 430 Nm (317 ft-lb) to 575 Nm or (424 ft-lb) again for peak values. The biggest gain was in the middle range up 40% in power some areas over stock. I've attached a bad photo of the dyno results below.
The really funny bit was the conversation Andrew and I had afterwards. That is best summarised by the two pieces of advice he gave me before I left:
- Use your cruise control on the way home because you would not be the first person to get a speeding ticket after a dynotune.
- Don't watch your fuel consumption for the next two weeks because you will be using more fuel than you would normally.
All I can say that after leaving the shop and going on a test drive, I could not keep the smile off my face. :wings: