What is the purpose of a Stage 2 tune?
- Installing a turbo-back exhaust system on turbocharged cars or a cat-back exhaust system on non-turbocharged vehicles is part of a stage 2 tune.
- In any instance, these systems are intended to increase engine airflow.
- They’re also recognized for making an automobile sound better.
What is Stage 2 tuning?
It includes reprogramming and optimization of the exhaust and inlet ( intake) system, but turbos should also be tuned. Stage 2 tuning (Stage 2 remap) often requires some hardware upgrades in advance, so the tuning can be applied reliably.
What is the difference between Stage 1 and Stage 2 mods?
These stage 2 mods offer larger power gains than stage one but will usually require additional work or other parts if you want them to work reliably. Some of the examples listed in stage 1 can also be regarded as stage 2 mods if they are extreme in their ambition.
Does Stage 1 tuning require any additional hardware?
In addition, the modifications of Stage 1 tuning (Stage 1 remap) do not require any additional hardware.
What is a stage 2 tune on a M278?
The stage 2 tune removes the CEL when these "primary" cats are removed and may also change the tune based on the idea that the cats are removed. Expect a gain of >40 awhp for an M278.
What is the difference between Stage 1 and Stage 2 tune?
A stage represents a set of upgrades fitted as a set. As you might expect, a stage is how far you've gone with tuning part of your car. Stage 2 represents a more tuned car than stage 1. Where things can get a bit confusing is that what each “stage” means can vary from car to car, and even from tuner to tuner.
How Much Is a Stage 2 tune?
You can expect to spend around $200 to $500 on stage 1 modifications and $450 to $850 on stage 2 tunes. In addition to stage 1 mods, stage 2 includes induction kit mods to increase airflow. Moreover, a turbo-back can be added to improve airflow from the engine.
What does a Stage 1 tune mean?
It's fair to say stage 1 tuning is the most common option. These tunes and mods generally do not require additional mods. Simply add a stage 1 modification and go. Even though most stage 1 tunes don't require mods there are still some good mods to couple with a stage 1 tune.
What Is a Stage 2 upgrade on a car?
A Stage 2 performance upgrade is a cam change upgrade. In any engine, the cam drives the valves and the valves open to allow air in for combustion. The kits for improved lift, duration and timing focus on either torque or power upgrades. The Stage 2 upgrade delivers up to 30% more horsepower and 10% more torque.
Is Stage 2 tune safe?
With a Stage II tune, you're nowhere near the danger zone unless you try it without supporting mods!
Is a Stage 1 tune worth it?
A Stage 1 tune will provide a noticeable difference in horsepower while maintaining the same level of fuel economy. The average increase in HP is 20%.
Is there a Stage 3 tune?
A stage 3 tune is considered by most to be a level that's best invested in for the track. That's because it can be very expensive. It usually involves upgrading the intercooler, cylinder head and inlet valves, head gasket, and spark plugs in additional to all stage 2 modifications.
What is a Stage 5 tune?
Stage 5: this would be a custom high compression big bore combination. It includes comprehensive headwork and aggressive cam. Requires larger throttle body & injectors as well as additional supportive mods. Would be considered fuel & tune sensitive.
Does Stage 2 affect fuel consumption?
As long as the car is properly tuned and you don't have an intake that is giving you crazy fuel trims, going to 2+ won't hurt your fuel efficiency. But like Tazz said, you will probably be much heavier with your right foot than before, which will hurt your fuel economy.
How much horsepower does a Stage 2 kit add?
Stage 2 Harley-Davidson® Upgrade Depending on the kit you choose, get 30 percent more horsepower and 10 percent more torque when correctly installed and tuned. Plus, when your upgrade is dealer installed, your original motorcycle warranty stays in place.
What is a Stage 3 upgrade?
A Stage 3 Upgrade is ideal for riders who want the largest engine displacement and increased power throughout the entire RPM range, with up to a 35% increase in the mid-to-upper RPM range.
How much HP does a Stage 2 cam add?
How much HP does a Stage 2 camshaft add? Stage 2 involves upgrading the camshaft, but it also requires you to upgrade the intake and exhaust system as well as remap the ECU to complete Stage 1. When both stages are completed, you can get 20-25% more power out of the engine.
What is stage 2 tuning?
Stage 2 is where things can become a lot different depending on the specific car in question, tuning company, and other factors. What is fair to say is that stage 2 tuning and mods are more aggressive. Stage 2 tunes are usually designed for use with other modifications. It’s a good idea to already have the basic stage 1 mods like an intake and exhaust.
What octane is needed for stage 2 tuning?
This is to the point of maximizing power output on the current setup. A true stage 2+ tune will often require at least 93 octane and potentially even E85 or race gas blends.
What stage do tuning companies use?
Not every company uses consistent staging. These are rough examples, but it paints a general picture. Some companies go by stage 1, 1+, and 2. Others may use stage 1, 2, and 3. Meanwhile, the next tuning company has tuning stages 1-5.
What are stage 1 mods?
Stage 1 mods generally include intakes, cat-back exhaust, blow-off valves, and other basic bolt-on engine mods. Again, none of this is a perfect science. However, the general idea is that stage 1 tuning and mods are basic things that usually don’t require further modification.
How much power can you gain with stage 3 tuning?
Power gains are really pretty limitless when it comes to stage 3 tuning and mods. You can keep things modest or build an all-out 1,000+whp engine. A lot of actual tunes themselves don’t go by stages at this point. Rather, it’s mostly custom tuning to meet your specific goals.
How much horsepower is Stage 3?
This list could truly go on forever. Stage 3 can encompass anything from a mild 400whp build with turbo upgrades all the way to full blown builds making 1,000+whp.
Why do we dislike the stages?
Why do we dislike the stages terminology? Well, there are a couple reasons. The major one is that they’re very inconsistent from engine to engine. Stage 1 tuning on one engine can be very different from the same tuning on another engine. Additionally, a specific stage 1 car might be faster than another stage 3 car.
What is stage 2 mod?
A stage 2 mod, is any part which requires or needs other parts to be fitted.
When does stage 2 become stage 3?
Most people regard stage 3 as off road, motorsport only or competition mods only. They are usually not road legal or would be impractical to use on a road due to their nature.
Why is talking about stages not helpful?
Talking about stages is not that helpful because many people have different ideas on what each stage is, so please read this article to get an overview of what most tuners mean by the stages.
When to jump straight in stage 3?
If your track times are important to you and the car will only be used off road, then it makes sense to jump straight in at stage 3.
Can mistakes on stage 2 parts be detrimental to your car?
Mistakes make on stage 2 parts can really be detrimental to your cars performance.
Specifications
Stage1: Many of you are looking for simple bolt-on upgrades that enhance the performance, look, and sound of the motorcycle. And that is exactly what you are going to get. It is better for riders who wish to improve the performance, look, and sound of their motorcycle. This is the initial stage of modification of all the previous stages.
Performance
Stage 1 provides an initial performance increase. They include matching high-flow air cleaner, exhaust, and proper tuning to set the foundation for your performance build.
Power
Stage 1 provides a performance increase of up to 10% throughout the whole RPM range. The power of the engine is substantially improved when the bike is equipped with an upgraded air filter and emission.
Durability
Stage 1 and stage 2 are basically the initial stages of the modification. They do not exert much pressure that the modern engines cannot handle.
Cost comparison
Harley-Davidson Stage 1 Upgrade prices can vary, starting at around $780 and increasing to over $1000 at the top end. It is the most cost-effective way to increase performance and lay the groundwork for later improvements.
What is stage 1 tuning?
Stage 1 tuning, also called Stage 1 remap or Performance tuning is a good choice for standard and unmodified vehicles, because it does not requires any other upgrades. It provides better fuel economy, enhanced overall performance and is convenient for daily use. Those upgrades are made as keeping the vehicle within the manufacturer’s safety parameters and standards. In addition, the modifications of Stage 1 tuning (Stage 1 remap) do not require any additional hardware.
WHAT DOES STAGE TUNING MEAN?
When it comes to chip tuning and ECU remapping, there are different stages of stage tuning. A stage is a set of vehicle upgrades and modifications. Each stage involves different typical changes that are applied to the ECU (electronic control unit). There are 3 main stages of stage tuning – Stage 1, Stage 2 and Stage 3. As you might expect, Stage 2 means more tuned vehicle than Stage 1, etc.
What is a stage 2 remap?
Stage 2 remap offers a bigger increase in power and torque, but not as much fuel efficiency than a Stage 1 remap. After a Stage 2 tuning, power will come on lower down in the rev range. The overall performance and reliability will also increase. In addition, you will enjoy the great and responsive drivability of your vehicle.
What is stage 1 tune?
Stage 1 tune often employs an ECU tune, an airbox upgrade as needed (risers, UPD kit, ROW box) with better filters. Some people also will do exhaust in stage 1.
How much does a stage 2 exhaust cost?
While stage 1 may include exhaust, in stage 2 exhaust is 100% addressed. The turbo downtubes are replaced and often the cats are replaced as well. This can be done in two parts and some manufactures do sell that way. Although the turbo back cat delete, for a race car or as local laws permit, can be fabricated and installed at an exhaust shop for approximately $200 a piece so $400-500 is a fair price while shipped it can run upward of $1000.
What does ECU tuning do?
The ECU tune, or remapping will try to optimize the engine based on generic information, or specific information. Increasing pressure and boost the ECU tunes can improve HP by a fairly large amount. For example AMS performance, some say Renntech, and OE try to deliver 585 crank hp from the ECU tune on a M278 which is at stock likely 450-460hp although rated by mercedes at the crank at 402 in some applications.
Stage 1 Tune
Stage 1 tune is the simplest remap since it only uses the manufacturer-specific parameters and stock components. You will not need OEM parts for stage 1 because this stage optimizes the vehicle’s parameters by unlocking the ECU to give the maximum power allowed by the carmaker using its stock components.
Stage 2 Tune
Stage 2 tune, unlike stage 1, requires hardware tunes/replacements to several components to get again in power and performance. Stage 2 tune provides higher power gains than stage 1 but is more complex since you will have to remap the engine, get additional components, and perform expert-level modifications on the parts.
Stage 3 Tune
Stage 3 is the most complex of all three and is mostly reserved for motorsport, competition, and track-related situations. This stage involves modifications that are not recommended for road use since the vehicle will become uneconomical, fail an emissions test, have drivability issues, and even idle erratically.
Stage 1 Tune Vs. Stage 2 Tune
Stage 1 and 2 involve engine remapping that enables the engine to accommodate power gains without getting any false readings. The two stages also include fitting a higher-performance air filter to achieve more engine power by tuning the amount of air being fed into the engine.
Stage 2 Tune Vs. Stage 3 Tune
Stage 3 tune is an extension of stage 2 with more modifications and more power gain. Stage 2 is much safer for your vehicle, and you should not go for stage 3 mods unless you are considering track and competition-related improvements.
Final Thoughts
For the most gain in a regular road car, you will only need to perform Stage 2 modifications since they offer the most benefits with little downside. Stage 1 tunes, on the other hand, are the safest modifications you can make since they stick to the manufacturer’s standards. Only opt for Stage 3 tuning if you take your vehicle to the track.
Stage 1 Tuning Modifications
Stage 3 Tuning Modifications
- A stage 3 modification is regarded by most as a track day or motor sport modification. Like stage 2 mods they will also need other mods to support them but they are usually far from ideal for road use as we will explain. Take racing brakes for example. These can tolerate extremely high temperatures but they are pretty useless whilst cool. On the road you can't afford to have to wai…
What About Power Gains For The Tuning Stages 1 vs Stage 2 vs Stage 3?
- Think of power gains as percentages rather than a set bhp, although most companies will only quote a peak power gain figure when selling parts. You will never get that peak gain through the whole rpm range, at the bottom end it may be much lower and sometimes we see a power loss at low RPMs with certain mods. When you tune a car you are generally adding a percentage power …
How Much Power Will I Get from A Stage 1 Upgrade Or Stage 2 Mod?
- You can't tell from the "stage label" without knowing what the parts are and which engine they are fitted to it would be impossible to put a power gain figure. We can say that stage 1 tuning power levels will be a lower gain that stage 2 tuning and stage 2 is reaching the upper limits for a road spec car. The only real way to know is to carry out the mods and get a dyno printout to see wher…
Tuning Stages Background
- We already hate ourselves for even entertaining the idea of writing this article – let alone actually writing one. However, tuning and modding engines is part of our DNA. Stages are simply one of the things we have to live with. Referring to tunes by stages isn’t our favorite method, but we also don’t have any better ideas. Why do we dislike the stages terminology? Well, there are a couple r…
Stage 1 Tuning & Mods
- HP Gains:5-50+ horsepower Mods Required:None* It’s fair to say stage 1 tuning is the most common option. These tunes and mods generally do not require additional mods. Simply add a stage 1 modification and go. Even though most stage 1 tunes don’t require mods there are still some good mods to couple with a stage 1 tune. An intake and exhaust are popular stage 1 mod…
Tuning & Mods Stage 2
- HP Gains:25-200+ horsepower Mods Required:Tuning, Intake, Exhaust Stage 2 is where things can become a lot different depending on the specific car in question, tuning company, and other factors. What is fair to say is that stage 2 tuning and mods are more aggressive. Stage 2 tunes are usually designed for use with other modifications. It’s a good i...
Stage 3 & Higher Tuning
- HP Gains:100-500+ horsepower Mods Required:Mods from stage 2 + dozens of different options Not many companies go beyond stage 3 mods or tuning. As such, stage 3 is often the all-out, no expense spared, most aggressive setup for big power. This is where NA engines start adding forced induction and/or boring and stroking the engine. Turbo and supercharged engines look fo…
Tuning Stages Key Takeaways
- As we jumped into in this article the exact meaning of stages can vary wildly from car to car and tuner to tuner. Stage 1 mods can be a lot different on two different engines. That goes for all of the other stages, too. Despite this there are some general rules of thumb: 1. Higher stages indicate more aggressive tuning & mods 2. Moving up stages generally requires the addition of …
What Does Stage Tuning Mean?
Stage 1 Tuning (Stage 1 Remap) – Reprogramming
- Stage 1 tuning, also called Stage 1 remap or Performance tuning is a good choice for standard and unmodified vehicles, because it does not requires any other upgrades. It provides better fuel economy, enhanced overall performance and is convenient for daily use. Those upgrades are made as keeping the vehicle within the manufacturer’s safety parameters and standards. In addi…
Stage 3 Tuning (Stage 3 Remap) – Upgraded Turbo and Remapped Engine Components
- Stage 3 tuning or Stage 3 remap is the ultimate upgrade for your vehicle. It is only used for race, motorsport and competition vehicles and it pushes your car to its limits. This means that the engine emissions come to illegal categories, there is more smoke and particulate emission filters can be removed. So, Stage 3 tuning is not suitable for everyday vehicle road use. Stage 3 remap …
Why Choose Effective Tuning For Stage Tuning?
- Effective Tuning has more than 10 years of experience in the field of chip tuning and ECU remapping. We know in detail all the characteristics and specifics of stage tuning. Our Stage 1 tuning, Stage 2 remap and Stage 3 tuning solutions include high-quality custom-made chip tuning files, so they meet all of your needs and requirements. We know exactly how to tune your vehicl…