ESS or COBB or GIAC

[bdaddylo]

Originally Posted by ken1137

Congrats on your decision to go with GIAC Stage II! I also love my Stage II on my 335i. I converted from Cobb Stage II on my 135. I can only imagine how much fun you are having with this tune in a 1M

What are the noticeable differences between GIAC and COBB stage 2?

[ken1137]

Originally Posted by bdaddylo

What are the noticeable differences between GIAC and COBB stage 2?

GIAC Stage II is a more linear - gradual increase in boost. It essentially feels like the car is stock until you press the pedal down farther. The Cobb is more of an immediate increase in boost with some modulations. I dont have any data on either since I never did log my Cobb or my GIAC at this point.

Secondly, the hand held flash unit works instantly. I can now use the valet mode b/c I dont have to wait for the flash. Just press a button. The only concern is when you flash back to stock it is not your stock file, but one loaded into the hand held unit. This however has not been a problem when going into the dealer for service.

[E30 Racer]

Originally Posted by ken1137

GIAC Stage II is a more linear - gradual increase in boost. It essentially feels like the car is stock until you press the pedal down farther. The Cobb is more of an immediate increase in boost with some modulations.

My understanding is that GIAC maintains some form of overboost with their 1M software whereas Cobb does not. Maybe Thomas can clarify? Also, GIAC uses about 18 psi, Cobb is 19.5 psi.

[old account 2]

Originally Posted by E30 Racer

My understanding is that GIAC maintains some form of overboost with their 1M software whereas Cobb does not. Maybe Thomas can clarify? Also, GIAC uses about 18 psi, Cobb is 19.5 psi.

Yes, we maintain the overboost function with the 1M software. I don't think Cobb reaches 19 psi, as least at the manifold (can read higher pre throttle body if it is closing).

[MrRoboto]

Looking for some clarification on the GIAC product. Does the initial flash have to be completed at a GIAC dealer and then the Flashloader just changes the maps?

[Splinterz88]

Originally Posted by MrRoboto

Looking for some clarification on the GIAC product. Does the initial flash have to be completed at a GIAC dealer and then the Flashloader just changes the maps?

Yes the intial flash has to be doen by GIAC or GIAC dealer. They load the maps that you want onto the car. Then with the hand held switching device you can choose between the maps you had loaded on the car. Takes seconds to switch a map.

Now if you want to upgrade for example go Stage 1 to Stage 2. You have to go back to giac dealer and get the new tune uploaded on your car. I just went though this last week. All I can say is despite the way the tune is distributed it is worth it.

[MrRoboto]

Originally Posted by Splinterz88

Yes the intial flash has to be doen by GIAC or GIAC dealer. They load the maps that you want onto the car. Then with the hand held switching device you can choose between the maps you had loaded on the car. Takes seconds to switch a map.

Now if you want to upgrade for example go Stage 1 to Stage 2. You have to go back to giac dealer and get the new tune uploaded on your car. I just went though this last week. All I can say is despite the way the tune is distributed it is worth it.

So same procedure if you want it removed and put back to factory? Visit the GIAC dealer?

[Splinterz88]

GIAC has stock performance level map that you can switch to using the switcher if you have that tune installed by the dealer.

If you want the bmw factory tune you have to go to GIAC dealer and they will load it back onto the car removing the GIAC tune(s).

[MrRoboto]

Originally Posted by Splinterz88

GIAC has stock performance level map that you can switch to using the switcher if you have that tune installed by the dealer.

If you want the bmw factory tune you have to go to GIAC dealer and they will load it back onto the car removing the GIAC tune(s).

Thanks Splinterz. As good as the GIAC tune likely is, this method is certainly not for me. A bit 'yesterday' if you ask me when compared to Cobb, ESS, etc who allow the ECU to be flashed and completely removed from your driveway.

[Splinterz88]

I agree with you about being dated. I hope they come up with a better delivery method.

[bmw13]

Originally Posted by Splinterz88

I agree with you about being dated. I hope they come up with a better delivery method.

I actually enjoy/ do not mind going to Porsche's Motorsport facility(they are my most local GIAC dealer) and find it all part of the experience but to each their own! Going somewhere to have the flash done by professionals just makes it more official/ gives me peace of mind. I am sensitive personally, when it comes to tuning and modding, so having that peace of mind is worth a lot more to me. GIAC also has a 30 day trial period. Just try the product, most of the people who have their car flashed for this trial never flash back, it is that good Try the product!

[MrRoboto]

No GIAC dealer in my neck of the woods and removing and shipping the ECU is out of the question.