The Ultimate Ford 3.5 EcoBoost Tuning Instructions. The Ford 3.5 EcoBoost engine is our favorite in 2011 and later F-150 trucks. It is debatably the best gasoline F-150 engine option in terms of performance, towing capacity, and fuel economy. einsteineruploading up to get together with. Other models, however, have more or less powerful variants of the twin turbo 3.5L V6. It has a good amount of power and performance out of the box.
It does, however, leave a lot of untapped potential on the table. To take the 3.5 EcoBoost to the next level, look no further than a tuner. This guide will go over some of the best Ford 3.5 EcoBoost tuners, as well as the cost, horsepower gains, and other details.
3.5 EcoBoost V6 Tuning Fundamentals
For good reason, tunes are a popular performance mod on many engines, including the 3.5L V6. A tune rewrites or modifies engine parameters in the car’s computer (ECU, ECM, DME) such as ignition timing, boost, fuel delivery, and so on. On naturally aspirated engines, power gains are typically modest. Turbo engines, on the other hand, have enormous potential with the addition of a tune.
Manufacturers use more turbo than is necessary to improve reliability, efficiency, and so on. This means that turning up the boost, adjusting the necessary parameters, and getting massive power gains with a simple tune is simple. That basic idea also applies to tuned 3.5 EcoBoost engines.
On a high level, all tunes for the Ford 3.5 twin turbo V6 do the same thing. The way tuners go about it can vary quite a bit, though. One critical distinction is between piggyback and flash tunes. We’ll get back to that after we talk about 3.5 EcoBoost tunes vs tuners.
Tune versus Tuner
Tuner is not a common word in the German car tuning world. It’s more common in the American car scene, so here’s a breakdown:
- Tune – the actual software/file used to change the operating parameters of a computer.
- Tuner – Usually refers to a tuner device. It can also refer to a person or company that tunes engines.
A tune, in other words, is the actual file or software that is loaded into the engine. 3.5 EcoBoost tuners can refer to either a tuner device or a person who actively tunes engines. A tuner, also known as a tuner device, is simply what allows you to load the tune onto the engine.
Piggyback F-150 vs. Flash Tunes
This could be a separate post, but we’ll keep it brief and to the point. Flash tunes actually rewrite the programming on the ECU (ECU). It enables very direct and precise control over every engine parameter imaginable, including timing, fueling, boost, and so on. The tuner device comes in handy here because it can actually write the new tune to the ECU.
Piggyback tunes, on the other hand, like the 3.5 EcoBoost JB4 tuner, make no changes to the ECU’s programming. These tuners, on the other hand, connect directly to the ECU. They’re both simple plug-and-play tuner devices, but they approach things very differently. A piggyback tune manipulates specific data points.
For example, it intercepts the boost signal and instructs the turbochargers to operate at higher PSI. The ECU still believes it is running at factory boost levels. Modern car computers are extremely fast and adaptable. Even if it is unaware that the boost is higher, it will react by increasing fuel flow, among other things, to keep the engine running smoothly. Other signals, such as fueling, can also be intercepted and modified by piggybacks.
Anyway, the end goal and result of 3.5 EcoBoost flash vs piggyback tunes are nearly identical. It’s just that the ways the tunes accomplish things differ. We love JB4 piggyback tunes and have been using them on all of our turbo BMWs for over 8 years. Many others prefer flash music.
Benefits of Ford F-150 3.5L V6 Tuning
The most obvious advantage of tuning the Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost is the increase in horsepower. There are some minor potential benefits, but power is the most important. In any case, the advantages of a tuned 3.5 EcoBoost include:
- 50-100+whp
- 70-120+wtq
- Improvements in fuel economy
- Improved throttle response
- Enhanced power band
With no other modifications, most 3.5 EcoBoost tunes will produce gains of 50-100whp. Torque can improve the wheels by 70-120 percent. Excellent gains for a single tune. The most powerful engines will be tuned 3.5L V6 engines running 93 octane, race gas, or E85 blends. More mods, better fueling, and tunes can provide even more power.
Better fuel economy is a contentious issue. Depending on the tune, you may notice a slight improvement in fuel economy. Most people, however, add a tune for the extra horsepower. If you use the extra power, your F-150’s MPG will most likely decrease.
Otherwise, expect faster throttle response and a wider power band. Peak power and torque gains do not provide a complete picture. Almost everywhere in the RPM range, you’ll notice the difference.
Risks of Twin Turbo 3.5 V6 Tuning
All of the advantages of 3.5 EcoBoost tunes and tuners are not without risk. All else being equal, more power and boost will put more strain on the engine and turbo. Everything from fuel pumps to the cooling system is included. Manufacturers leave headroom for a reason. It’s not always about horsepower, but it is a consideration.
Having said that, the Ford 3.5L EcoBoost is a strong engine with a good twin turbo setup. A well-prepared, modest tune will not pose much of a risk. However, pushing things further and further increases the likelihood of problems. The more power you desire, the more crucial supporting mods become.
Here’s a list of the best 3.5 EcoBoost bolt-on performance upgrades. Many of those mods are necessary if you want to push the engine to its limits. Other cooling modifications such as oil coolers, radiators, and so on may also be considered.
Best EcoBoost 3.5 Tuners
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s look at some of the best tuners for the Ford 3.5 EcoBoost. It’s worth noting that there are many good options, and one isn’t always better than the other. Some of it is simply a matter of personal preference and/or who you wish to give your business to. As a result, this list only includes a few of the best tuning options in our opinion.
However, there are a few key things to look for. Always work with an experienced, reputable company or individual in the industry. If you don’t know what you’re doing, tinkering with tuning parameters can be dangerous and risky. Don’t go asking your neighbor to tune your 3.5L EcoBoost because he once tuned a ’94 Civic.
You also want a company that can help you with future tuning needs and developments. Anyway, here are the best Ford 3.5 EcoBoost tuners.
1) Ford Livernois 3.5L V6 Tuner
This list isn’t in any particular order, but the Livernois Motorsports tuner is at the top for good reason. einsteineruploaded with. As a result, Livernois can provide a wide range of tune solutions for the Ford 3.5 EcoBoost.
The Livernois MyCalibrator Touch makes flashing, data logging, and monitoring simple. It comes with Livernois custom tuning and produces 60-80+hp and torque gains on 93 octane fuel. Livernois tunes can also adjust transmission tuning, provide tow compatible tunes, increase the speed limiter, and do a variety of other things.
Livernois also provides excellent customer service and free tune revisions/updates. While the $599 price tag may appear high, the Livernois 3.5 EcoBoost tune is a steal (most other companies charge fees for changes or revisions). Look no further for one of the most comprehensive, complete, and high-quality tunes for the 3.5L EcoBoost.
Price: $599
2) JB4 3.5 EcoBoost Piggyback Tune
We’re a little biased here because we use JB4 tuners and love their products. They first appeared shortly after the 2007 release of the twin turbo BMW N54 engine. For good reason, it’s a popular tuning option in the BMW world. This 3.5 EcoBoost piggyback tune is easy to install and use.
The JB4 also comes with seven tuning maps that you can switch between on the fly. Map switching takes about 2 seconds versus a few minutes for a flash tune. If you uninstall the JB4 before visiting a dealer while still under warranty, it will be nearly impossible to detect. Remember that piggyback tunes manipulate signals so that the ECU displays 100% stock data.
Anyway, we don’t have time to go over all of the JB4’s amazing features. Check out the below link for more info on the Ford F-150 JB4. This is a great choice for the 3.5 EcoBoost if you want a simple tune with modest and aggressive tunes. Those looking for 500+whp on heavy E85 mixes, upgraded turbos, and so on should use traditional flash tunes.
Price: $529.00
3) Custom V6 EcoBoost Tuning
We’ll return to actual tuner devices shortly, but for now, the only options are 3.5 V6 flash tunes. This implies that custom tuning will be a significant option, which should be discussed in advance. The 3.5 EcoBoost tuners listed below all come with free standard off-the-shelf (OTS) maps. They are usually created with a shop/test car.
Not all 3.5 EcoBoost engines, however, are the same. Furthermore, some owners drive them at sea level, while others drive them at elevations of 10,000 feet or higher. We won’t even get into the dozens of other considerations. The point is, base tunes aren’t tuned specifically for your F-150 3.5L EcoBoost. They are universal tunes designed to work with all 3.5 EB engines.
As a result, a custom flash tune can provide significant performance and other benefits. You’ll work with a tuner to customize a tune for your truck, elevation, conditions, and so on. It’s a back and forth process that requires some time and patience. Custom tunes, on the other hand, allow you to fully utilize the capabilities of your specific engine.
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4) Tuners for the Ford F-150 3.5L Twin Turbo SCT X4
The SCT X4 tuners device for the 3.5L V6 twin turbo EcoBoost engine comes next. The device costs $399 and includes some basic flash tunes. 5 Star Tuning also offers similar options, including the device and three custom tunes.
SCT has long provided tuners and tunes for Ford vehicles. They’re a well-known company with reliable products at a reasonable price. Most 3.5 EcoBoost tuners include standard features. einsteinerupload of. Excellent choice all around.
Price: $399.00 ($549.95 with 5 Star Tuning custom tunes)
5) Accessport Tuner Ford 3.5 EcoBoost COBB
To be honest, this is our least favorite option on the list. I have nothing against COBB Tuning. COBB is a large company that has long produced tuner devices for various makes and models. You must, however, pay a premium for their brand name and image. Devices start at $600 and only get more expensive from there.
3.5 EcoBoost tuners are also limited to 2017 and later F-150 and Raptor models. If you have a 2017 or later F-150 and can look past the higher prices, it’s a great option. We don’t see any distinguishing features or reasons to believe the COBB Accessport is worth the price premium. If you don’t mind the $600+ price tag, it’s still a great tuning option for the 3.5 EcoBoost.
Price: $600+
Summary of Ford 3.5 EcoBoost Tuning
The 3.5L twin turbo V6 EcoBoost engine is an excellent all-around performer. It’s our personal favorite in the F-150 lineup due to its excellent balance of performance, tuning potential, towing capacity, and fuel economy. 3.5 EcoBoost engines provide excellent performance right out of the box. However, for some, this is insufficient. Fortunately, a 3.5 EcoBoost tune can quickly raise the engine’s performance.
With a tune-only and proper fueling, horsepower gains of 50-100whp are possible. With additional modifications, the 3.5 EcoBoost tuner power gains become even more impressive. You should also notice improved throttle response and increased power across the entire rev range. If you’re looking for that extra edge, it’s difficult to go wrong with a tune.
We like the 3.5 EcoBoost JB4 piggyback tuners because they are easy to install and have great features. Piggyback tunes, on the other hand, aren’t for everyone, especially if you’re looking to make 500+whp on heavy E85 mixes or upgraded turbos. Otherwise, the SCT X4, COBB Accessport, and nGauge are all excellent choices, but each has its own set of drawbacks. Whatever you choose, a tune will undoubtedly take the F-150 3.5 EcoBoost to the next level.
