The Tractor and Machinery Association (TAMA) says tractor owners ought to consider potential risks before having engine control unit (ECU) remapping performed on tractors, trucks or other self-propelled machinery.
TAMA general manager Ron Gall says that the process is now being offered in a number of regions throughout the country but it can potentially cause damage to machines and affect factory warranties.
Remapping entails reprogramming the ECU software to change how it controls the engine. This can include removing any limits placed on it – such as engine speed, injection timing and fuel volume. Gains claimed for remapping include increased power and fuel economy.
“Neither TAMA nor any of our members endorse the practices of any businesses offering ECU remapping,” says Gall.
“Tractor and engine manufacturers have invested billions of dollars in developing engines that deliver smooth and reliable power and torque, whilst meeting its emissions regulations requirements,” says TAMA vice-president Mark Hamilton-Manns
“Companies offering remapping ‘solutions’ need to be mindful of the investment in meeting emissions regulations. Coolant packages are often model-specific and increased power generally means increased heat dissipation.
“If the coolant package is not designed for the subsequent heat, failures to head gaskets, exhaust gas recirculation valves and exhaust gas after-treatments will almost certainly occur.”
“We have heard of several examples of machinery failures, such as drive shafts breaking as a result of the increased stresses placed on power-trains as a result of remapping – and the owners were not aware of the likely risks.”
The problem does not lie solely with engines according to Hamilton-Manns.
“Aftermarket modifications of transmission controllers can, in fact, see a tractor capable of exceeding its factory-delivered speed rating,” says Hamilton-Manns
“We have seen instances of tractors being modified to achieve 50 km/h transport speeds, without the required front axle strength or braking capacity demanded by the factory. This is a significant safety concern to operators and owners.”
Gall says that if ECU remapping is performed on a tractor or self-propelled machine it is likely that would render the manufacturer’s warranty void.
“Anyone thinking about having ECU remapping performed should consider these risks and what, if any redress, would be available to them if the machine subsequently fails.”
If owners have any concerns TAMA recommends they contact their nearest dealer to discuss the situation.
