I am having problems with my FD and I suspect a faulty sensor (water temp, air temp, CAS, knock sensor, ect) - instead of replacing the sensors one at a time, I am considering getting a powerfc + commander. From your experience, would this make it easy to find out which sensor is malfunctioning?

Also, would getting a powerfc allow me to monitor my exact engine temp without installing a new sensor?

Thanks,
-Charlie

 

If the sensor is faulty, you should get a code on the stock computer. The sensor check screen on the PFC is handy, but it's not the end all be all of troubleshooting. Not to mention I'd much rather have a car that's running properly before putting a computer in.

That said, the PFC is a great ECU, and worth doing problem or no.

The monitor function on the commander will let you see your engine's water temp, but the monitor is pretty damn useless as a gauge. The screen is hard to see in some conditions, and a real water temp gauge of some kind is a much better idea. Search in the FD forum - I've posted a few times about just using a brass T in the rubber hose to the throttle body - VERY clean, simple install for a water temp sender, and easily reversible with a new hose.

By the same token, the HKS Fan Controller displays water temps by reading the stock coolant sensor. I'm a BIG fan of that thing - does a super job controlling the fans, it can show your water temps and warn if they get too hot. Again, search on that - I've made a few posts on the topic.

Dale

 

Yes and Yes. Having a Datalogit is better for troubleshooting as the monitor screens are way and monitor more sensor outputs plus you can log sensor data to help troubleshooting. With a commander in plain view while driving I see no need for a separate water temp gage but YMMV.