IT'S the weekend, and you've got20 minutes. How can you make yourCorvette perform better, run cooler, shiftharder, and get better fuel mileage? Howabout reprogramming the computer? It'seasy to do, and with the new computerprogrammer systems available these days,if you don't like what you've done, youcan put it back to the factory parametersjust as easily.
The FAST-FLASH programmer fromFAST makes it simple to change criticalperformance, mileage, and shiftingparameters of your engine and transmission.The FAST-FLASH features a liquidcrystal display screen that guides youthrough the programming with questionsreferencing timing, transmission shiftpoints, cooling system fan start, andmany others. It's a fail-safe unit thatallows you to modify these importantcomputer parameters without losing youroriginal state of tune.
Charlie Mornmot's `73 Corvette...
Charlie Mornmot's `73 Corvette is not stock, featuring a complete '02 Corvette LS1 drivetrain. For all intent and purpose, this Corvetteis an '02 with all the standard computer hardware as well.
Our test installation took place onCharlie Mornmot's highly modified `73Corvette from Bismarck, Illinois, featuringa stock '02 LS1 engine and 4L60Etransmission. While the wrapper mayhave been a bit unique, Mornmot'sCorvette was basically an '02 Corvette inall other regards--most notably in thecomputer department. The only real performancechange from a stock C5Corvette was the installation of the factoryoriginal-style `68-'69 side exhausts.
The FAST-FLASH computer programmer...
The FAST-FLASH computer programmer hooks up to the standardCorvette computer diagnostic plug, which in the case ofCharlie's Corvette was hidden on the right side of the dashboard.Most OE plugs are located on the lower driver side ofthe dash like this one.
To begin, the FAST-FLASH was pluggedinto the Corvette's computer system atthe diagnostic port under the dashboard.During the first few moments of operation,the FAST-FLASH reads and recordsthe current engine and transmissionparameters. The FAST-FLASH is preprogrammedwith two basic tuning calibrationfiles: performance mode and economymode, which you can use to modifyyour personal computer preferences. Inaddition, the FAST-FLASH unit is the onlyhand-held programmer that features theexclusive Cam Tuning Technology, incorporatingthree different calibration fileswhen aftermarket camshaft changes aremade. A limiting factor with regard toother programmers, the FAST-FLASH hasaddressed this common request ofCorvette enthusiasts looking to install ahigh-performance camshaft and programtheir computers to maximize the efficiencyof their computer-controlled systems.
Further adjustments are possible on anindividual basis using the promptsoffered in the display window. In the caseof Charlie's Corvette, we changed the followingparameters: