Q: I have a 95 gsr swap...and its never been'd tuned before...what exactly do they do, and what will it help...and also how much does something like that usually cost? thanks
A: Before you tune, you want to make sure you have the necessary tuning equipment required to make changes. Required: -Some way to alter the ECU (piggyback or chipped) Optional: -datalogging (records runs onto memory to be viewed) -wideband o2 sensor (accurate reading of a/f ratio) -cam gears (moves the power band around) -fuel regulator (considered a hack to increase fuel) -larger injectors (much preferred over the regulator) Just to be able to tune could cost up to $800 or more. Crome is free to use (tuning software) granted that you get a chipped ecu ($50 DIY or $180 assembled). So, that's about $200 just to be ready to tune. Tuning itself ranges from $70/hr to about $200/hr depending on where you go. Some shops have a standard of charging for the first two hours regardless if it only took 30 minutes. Don't just look for the cheaper price but also the more experienced tuner with your type of vehicle. That doesn't always mean that the more expensive price is better either. Asks questions like - do they include street tuning, what systems are they comfortable with, prices they charge, etc... Do some calling around. Also - most shops require that you have no current issues with the vehicle being tuned (ie. any CEL unless if it deals with an o2 sensor). Make sure to replace and bring extra spark plugs and have plenty of gas in the tank. Just as a reference, I've spent $200 on two tuning sessions, each being just under an hour. If your car is not complex, like has turbo or built motor, it shouldn't take much longer than an hour or two. **Keep in mind that anything can happen at the dyno