redspencer

iTrader: (1)

Not to mention the other Lexus models that also use the 2GR-FSE motor. I'd imagine that a lot of the initial research and development costs can be recouped by modifying the code for the other models (3GS, 4GS, 3IS).

heyarms

iTrader: (5)

^Their cost for R&D is quite large, more so than they would forsee making back. Not many people want to put out that much cash and time for sending over your ECU for maybe 40whp. Also since theyre a racing company, they probably decided on the F platform because the obvious performance of the car. Us 2.5L and 3.5L little brothers of the F are probably not worth their time and effort, as they probably arent in it to be a household name in tuning "average" cars. Just my $.02.

redspencer

iTrader: (1)

But they have already tuned the JDM IS350 ECU...

idoke1

iTrader: (5)

^^ I agree.

NYKnick101

I completely understand and the F would be the clear choice to tune BUT where they might lose is the IS-F has a significantly smaller market then the ISx50's and will potentially be discontinued (although not confirmed yet but is on the chopping block). It's a great jump for the RC-F but to cut out a larger market doesn't seem to best business plan. But im sure they have other areas they can focus more on

Plus I don't understand Lexus sometimes. To go forward with the track proven campaign with the 3IS but not offer any real power options other than the base F-Sport stuff. At least offer a supercharger kid like TRD has done

scott1256c

Nigel indicated they spent a year on the tune for the U.S. (North America?) ISF. I presume they had already done the JDM ISF. Obviously I don't know how much of that was actual time spent on the tune, or perhaps waiting for information from Lexus or "other". Also sounds to me like Lexus isn't cooperating, but maybe SARD just never asked for ISx50 info. And let's be honest. For every person who says "I'm in" on a mod like this, how many actually go thru with it? I see a number of people asking about LSD options, but 2 manufacturers, at least, gave up on LSD's for the IS350 (Tom's and Quaife are both out AFAIK). So when push comes to shove, I don't know how many would spend $3k for a ECU that provides 40hp, but isn't actually tuned to their car.

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added:
Also Nigel kind of indicated that the ISF is likely the last lexus that SARD will offer an ECU upgrade on. So it looks like the response so far has been underwhelming. Nigel, or anyone else can correct me if I'm wrong. I often am

604GSE21

wouldn't it be cool if someone can talk TRD USA into making a tune on the ecu for is350... since its the only one capable to do one here in north america and 3IS still hav same engine... thats probably gonna be just a dream... or if we can get a big enough list maybe HKS USA or Greddy USA could make one i don't know hahhah

4TehNguyen

iTrader: (1)

they have like 5+ different ECU part numbers for the 2IS 350, would have to tune every single one, same goes for the GS

I honestly think the price for the ISF ECU flash isnt bad, considering the power gain (even more with mods) and all the software enhancements which doesnt show up on a dyno.

XhyDra

iTrader: (8)

I came across someone from Singapore who had his IS250 tuned with a Unichip Q piggyback ECU unit. He managed to actually make significant gains with it. I've been trying to get in touch with him, but the Singapore Lexus forums seem to be down.

scott1256c

After reading your post, I did a search, and there was someone posting from the middle east who also used this. Turns out he had a JDM ECU. I would think there is a good chance Singapore uses JDM ECU's also. So I don't know if Unichip would work in US or Canada. Unichip in the US doesn't mention the IS350 for 2008, and they had nothing for 2007 for any car, let alone the IS. But do let us know if you find anything out.

redspencer

iTrader: (1)

Nigel posted this video of a SARD tuned JDM IS350 hitting a max rev limit of 7230:

idoke1

iTrader: (5)

^^there's a sound that sounds like a blow off valve. Is it boosted?