Do I need a tune after installing a supercharger on an LS?
Yes. What a boosted LS needs from the tune:
- Boost enrichment and timing: under boost the engine needs extra fuel and less timing. LSX Magazine's approach is to pull timing anywhere that may see boost, then add it back carefully on the dyno.
- Load sensing: a custom speed-density operating system with a matching MAP sensor (LSX Magazine cites up to 30 psi with a 3-bar setup). A mismatched MAP sensor badly corrupts fueling.
- Fuel system: Summit puts stock LS1 injectors at about 390 hp and the stock LS1 pump at about 450 hp, so most kits need fuel upgrades plus recalibration.
See fuel, E85 & boost.
Want to do it yourself? See who tunes it, and how to learn.
Confidence: medium — sources disagree or are limited; check the sources below.
Related questions
- Why would VATS and starter checks refuse to disable on an E38 ECM even after a Write Entire?
- What is the exact procedure to disable DoD/AFM in the tune without a mechanical delete kit?
- How do I set up 6L80E part-throttle and WOT shift tables after a gear and tire change in an engine swap?
- How do I add a real flex fuel sensor to an E38 Camaro and dial in E85 — what needs adjusting beyond enabling multifuel?
- What is needed to segment-swap a 4L60e E38/T42 truck to a 4L80E?
- Does simply selecting 4L80E under the transmission tab convert a 4L60E tune, or is a segment swap required?
Sources
- Project Corn Star: Tuning An LS For Boost With HP Tuners — LSX Magazine
- LS1 5.7L Engine Upgrade Guide: Expert Advice for LS1 Mods to Maximize Performance — Summit Racing / OnAllCylinders