I have several upgrades planned for my 93 FD. I know at some point I'm going to need to replace the ECU, but I have absolutely no knowledge on them. Can anyone give me a good source of information or explanation of ECU's? Recommendations are great, but what I'm really after is a thorough understanding of what the ECU does, how it does it and why.

 

https://www.rx7club.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=37

 

There are a few different kinds:

1. Rechip
2. Piggyback
3. Standalone

Basically, here's a run down:

1. A rechip is basically a stock ECU which has had an adapter (daughter) board soldered on to accept a pre-programmed mapped chip. It's not programmable, so what you get is what you have. In the US, there are a few of these around by GForce, M2 and Pettit Racing. They are typically go up to around 330rwhp-350rwhp (depending on the car and engine mods). They are fairly cheap and can be had used for around $200-400.

2. A piggyback basically works with the stock ECU. These are generally old school and not used very much unless you have an automatic transmission. They do offer limited tuning ability.

3. Standalone ECU's are just that, complete replacement ECU's. They do require proper tuning and are a more expensive than the other two types listed above. However, they offer the greatest flexibility.

So, you need to think about the goals for your car, the resources you have in your area, and then you'll be able to pick what is best for your application.

 

Mahjik, you are the resident guru. Thanks for helping all of us who haven't a clue.

 

Amen to that.