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This thread was created to provide information regarding tuning products that are available for the 8AR-FTS (4 cylinder turbocharged) motor available in the Lexus IS200t,RC200t,GS200t & NX200t. For the 2018 MY they have dropped the "200t" and are now renamed "300". The 2 most popular tuning options that's currently available for our motor.
ECU reflash- "An ECU reflash or remap works by altering the software inside the ECU – a vehicle’s on board computer that’s responsible for controlling vital engine functions including ignition timing, fuelling and boost pressure. "
Tuning box- "Tuning boxes work in a different way – essentially overruling the ECU and tricking it into increasing engine performance. Fitted between the engine sensors and the actuator, a tuning box sits down the line from the ECU, and alters the data that the ECU receives and sends to the engine"
From my personal experience with both tuning systems.
ECU reflash Pros- Makes power than tuning box, throttle delay is improved, ECU limitations are bypassed & it can be returned to stock with ECU tools. Cons- More costly, if not loaded properly it can cause ECU damage, can be detected by dealer if they need to read your ECU, tuned program cannot be sold & is more complex to install.
Tuning box Pros- Makes good power gains over stock, resonably priced, easy to install (plug and play), leaves no traces on the ECU & can be re-sold. Cons- Less peak power gains than re-flash, doesn't help with throttle delay issue and doesn't remove ECU limitations set by manufacturer.
Modifications
OEM & Stage 1- K&N drop in filter.
Stage 2- HPS intake tube w K&N drop in filter and TTI sports catalyst down pipe.
I get a lot of inquires/concerns about the low hp/tq gains of these tunes, but they always look at the "peak" and not the actual graph.
For example-
Between OEM tune and Stage 2 theres a +19.45whp/+24.26wtq peak difference in power, but the graph shows the powerband at 4500rpm (232.68-202.12) +30.56whp (271.65-235.98) +35.67wtq. Even if the peak numbers are not greatly impacted, the power gain throughout the powerband (rpm range) will move the car faster from point A to B therefore making the vehicle's acceleration faster.
This plug and play tuner attaches to easy to access sensors in your Lexus engine bay and works with your factory DME tuning to remap your boost, timing, and fueling for optimal performance and reduced turbo lag. It features a 64mhz processor allowing sensors to be sampled 800 times per second using dedicated 10 bit digital to analog converters, ensuring smooth and powerful performance.
For the IS200t power gains are up to 45 crank horsepower and up to 45 crank torque over stock, at the default +4psi setting. With race gas or E85 mixtures higher power gains are possible. Boost is adjustable using a BMS Data Cable or Bluetooth adapter.
Installation is very discrete and it quickly removes without a trace when needed. Fuel economy during normal driving is unchanged.
• Increases horsepower/torque making your Lexus faster
• Plug and play installation to easy to access plugs
• Factory quality wiring and connections
• Fuel economy is unchanged during normal driving
• Boost can be adjusted using BMS data cable/bluetooth adapter with either a laptop or smart phone.
• Removes without a trace
• Compatible with all driving modes
• Made in USA
Honestly GS430 is slow by today's standards, and removing your cat is a pretty big deal cause it makes your car illegal in most places and pollute quite a bit - may result in a hefty fine. I report any and all cars in California I see or detect that are de-catted.
GS430 0-60 6.3, 1/4 mile 14.7. And that's assuming it's a brand new GS430. They've lost a bit of power since 2001 when those #s were published.
This is what I was looking forward to with the 200t. Even thought about replacing my IS350 just because of the possible tuning capabilities. I emailed Cobb about tuning but they have no plans as of right now.
If the crank numbers are dead on, there is over 18% drivetrain loss. And the tuned numbers put it right around 267 bhp.
seems about right
Originally Posted by FSportDRM
This is what I was looking forward to with the 200t. Even thought about replacing my IS350 just because of the possible tuning capabilities. I emailed Cobb about tuning but they have no plans as of right now.
Yes same here, being an ex VW owner i know the capabilities of these turbo 4's with a tune and bolt ons.
Considering they bumped it by 3 psi and only gained 20 rwhp, it's disappointing. I've seen better gains from naturally aspirated engines that switched from an 87 to a 91/93 octane tune. I honestly expected more from a boosted setup. Hopefully it's something simple that's limiting it, but you may find that this platform just won't perform well.
Considering they bumped it by 3 psi and only gained 20 rwhp, it's disappointing. I've seen better gains from naturally aspirated engines that switched from an 87 to a 91/93 octane tune. I honestly expected more from a boosted setup. Hopefully it's something simple that's limiting it, but you may find that this platform just won't perform well.
Actually that's not bad for 3psi on a small turbo, On VW's you get a 20-30hp by bumping up 5+ psi.. I'm sure with an intake and downpipe upgrade you will be able to free up another 30whp.
This is a very good news!
Soon with small upgrades the 200t can go head to head with the 350.
The 200t will probably need intake, exhaust, hot pipe replacement + fmic , cold spark plugs and a good tune. This list should give 60-80 whp depending on tune and if the engine can handle the extra boost.
You guys must not know much about BMS! I've been trolling the BMW forums and they are able to tune the horrid BMW ECU's with their piggy back with great success. It's only a matter of time before they crack the IS200's ECU and get a solid tune for us.
You guys must not know much about BMS! I've been trolling the BMW forums and they are able to tune the horrid BMW ECU's with their piggy back with great success. It's only a matter of time before they crack the IS200's ECU and get a solid tune for us.
some guy claimed that 10 years ago and it's still locked
This is a very good news!
Soon with small upgrades the 200t can go head to head with the 350.
The 200t will probably need intake, exhaust, hot pipe replacement + fmic , cold spark plugs and a good tune. This list should give 60-80 whp depending on tune and if the engine can handle the extra boost.
And with All the extra money you just spent, you could've just upgraded to the 350 for less.
IS200t
