For any and all programming mods out there. (Sorry if I leave someone out, but I'm new to these names, so just going on memory : EVO, Upsolute, etc. Feel free to post other names of tuners that people have/should consider).

Question :

1) Does the 996TT have a way of 'detecting' the octane level of
the fuel being used ?

2) I have gotten the impression that there are different
'programs' for different octane levels. However, what I
wasn't sure of... was whether or not the octane can be
detected and then the computer maps to the appropriate
program.

3) Do most of these programming modifications have a
'single' program, or do some of them have a 'valet' mode,
a 'street mode' (meaning high peak boost, not intended to
be sustained for long periods of time), a 'track mode',
where the engine is 'planned' to be running hot for
long periods of time, so the programming my favor something
more 'safer against detonation' but not running spike boosts,
but more focus on a more flatter power band.

Sorry... lots of questions, but i'm new to the mod game on P-cars, and I just wanted to get some education.

Thanks in advance,

Andy

 

Great Questions. I would love to hear some answers!

BTW what kind of power/bost can one expect on crappy California 91 octane?

 

The motor doesn't detect the octane rating of the gas per se.
It can detect the slightest detonation, and can dial back the
timing (and/or maybe raise the A/F ratio?) to compensate.
Usually the car is set up to run it's maximum power at about
92 octane, and to adjust lower if necessary (if it senses knock).
However, if ther is no knock, such as running 93 octane or
better, the typical program would *not* adjust the timing the
other way to try to find more power.
A '100-octane' program would start with sufficient timing for
the better fuel, and would let the motor tune down from there.

Some tuners do offer chips with multiple programs on it, and
let you select what program is in effect via a remote. One program
could be stock, another for 100-octane, and another might limit
RPMs to 3000 and speed to 25mph etc.

 

Joe,

Thanks for the response. So, basically, no octane sensor. just a detonation/knock sensor. And does the programming work as a step function ? Does it retard the timing to a specific 'target' and drop the 'boost' to a specific target to save the engine ? Or does it continuously rachet back the timing and slowly drop the peak boost ?

I suffer with the CA 91 octane! Boy, do I miss the 94 octane ... but that was many many maaaany moons ago.

Do many people who mod their cars with exhaust, intake, programming/boost increases, typically upgrade their heat exchangers as well ? (Radiator, intercoolers, oil coolers, etc. ?) I'm trying to figure out at which level of power upgrades, does it make sense to start looking over the heat exchangers.

I've gone through the upgrade/mod-madness path on another twin-turbocharged car... .but don't have enough background/information about P-cars, so would appreciate any insight the modified/experienced-masses may have.

Thanks,

Andy

 

Your best bet now is to talk to the established full-service
Porsche 996tt tuners for the logical progessions available.
Certainly start with our sponsors.

 

Thanks.

Andy