Chip-Tuning
- yes and no ?!?
This discussion was made on many occasions.
I decided for chip-tuning for two reasons:
1. My driving-manner is rather relaxed (even
with Chip -Tuning). With the Defender, but also with my second car, a
Golf IV,TDI with 150BHP [WITHOUT Chip]!
I drove this Golf for 115000 kilometers (approx. 71500miles) now, with an average
consumption of 49 mpg - despite ca. 60%
RME-Usage.
(During summertime; normally they say that the average consumption with
RME-Diesel is 10% above the standard.).
Now this was the basis for my decision: It's
better to have more power and to use that rarely -
that less power, which has to be used constantly.
Which chip to install: Well, this question was answered quite quickly.
Against a famous UK-based tuning specialist, and against a specialist
near Cologne, Germany.
This is for people, how REALLY need maximum power.
I trusted a mechanic, who previously had done the maintenance-job on my
MINI-Cooper. He had some good experience with this particular
tuning-chip -
and made a good price.
Chances to the car-certificates were done by myself at the TÜV
(similar to the english MOT)
2. The TD5-Engine of the Defenders, coming from
LR with 122BHP -has 139BHP in the old Discovery. With the same gearbox.
So engine and gearbox should be able to handle the increased power and
torque.
Lessons learned:
GOOD!
I can recommend this tuning. In low revs the Defender accelerates much
better..
The important acceleration from 50/55 to 70/75 mph to overtake
a lorry - is done quick!
Increased consumption: No!
Update: 30. March 2005:
Winter is gone, and I made some experience during the lower temperatures.
My judgement is unchanged: The Defender is great fun!
Without usage of the
preheater the average consumption is down to approx. 29mpg!
Bur again: The main influence on the consumption the driver's right foot!