This month, in our SEMA new parts tech guide, we show you how to dial in success with this year's latest styles of gauges and how to go digital with the newest vehicle computer programmers/interfaces for your favorite Pontiac.
SCT
(866) 297-6298 * www.sctflash.com
What is it?
LiveWire
Why you need it:
Livewire is a pre-programmed and custom tunable PCM flash tuner that comes loaded with three different dyno-proven custom performance tunes (and one fuel economy tune) for your LS1-equipped Firebird or GTO. The manufacturer built this hand-held tuner with features including advanced data-logging, instrumentation of over 15 vehicle parameters, and capability to read/clear and diagnose trouble code options.
Applications
'98-'02 Firebird, '04 GTO
MSRP
$679
Innovate Motorsports
(949) 502-8400 * www.tuneyourengine.com
What is it?
OT-1 OpenTune OBD-II Interface
Why you need it:
If you were clicking a mouse before you ever heard of an accelerator pedal, you will feel right at home with this product. Your Pontiac's computer is connected to many sophisticated sensors. With this product, you can access your engine computer and see exactly what the sensors within your Pontiac are measuring. You can select up to 16 channels from hundreds of available parameters, log the data up to 12 times a second, and then save it in a spreadsheet file such as Microsoft Excel. This OT-1 OpenTune OBD-II Interface includes LogWorks 3.0 engine analysis software with real time horsepower and torque calculators. You can also use it to display live data on Innovate XD-16 gauges or on your laptop using the LogWorks software. This product is recommended for use with Innovate's Modular Tuning System (MTS).
Applications
'96 and up Pontiacs
MSRP
$199
EASE Diagnostics
(570) 587-7080 * www.obd2.com
What is it?
PC Scan Tool
Why you need it:
This entry-level consumer scan tool can get you into the world of digital diagnostics for your Pontiac. It is actually software you install into your PC and then use with an included cable/adapter interface to attach to your under dash OBD-II data port. This product allows you to view your vehicle's computer-controlled sensor readings including rpm, mph, throttle position, coolant temperature and oxygen sensor values. With this scan tool, it is easy to retrieve trouble codes and descriptions and reset the SES light on your dashboard.
Applications
'96-'05 Pontiacs
MSRP
Unavailable
Drew Technologies, Inc.
(810) 231-3171 * www.drewtech.com
What is it?
DashDAQ
Why you need it:
The DashDAQ is designed specifically for automotive dashboard use with a high contrast 4-inch, full color touch-screen, and a low power mode so it can be permanently installed in your Pontiac. It connects to your Pontiac's OBD-II port and displays engine and transmission parameters on high color, customizable rendered gauges. It features a Linux operating system and includes expansion ports that allow you to bring in data from "wideband O2 sensors, EGT sensors, GPS sensors, other hard-wired sensors and accelerometers and standalone race ECUs. "
Applications
'96 and up Pontiacs
MSRP
$595
Koso North America Inc.
(877) 777-0604 * www.kosonorthamerica.com
What is it?
Koso EGT Temperature Gauge
Why you need it:
When it comes to tuning for turbo boost, it is important to know your exhaust gas temperature. You want to be sure you have the most accurate gauge available. Just introduced, this pyrometer features a very accurate stepper motor so you can watch your EGT up to 1600-degrees F and prevent overboost from destroying your Pontiac motor.
Applications
All year Pontiacs
MSRP
$206
Magden Technologies
(949) 599-0301 * www.magden.us
What is it?
M.1 Performance Computer
Why you need it:
Wow. Remember all the fun things KITT could do with its onboard computer? Well, reality has arrived. When connected to your G5's CAN-bus, this M.1 performance computer can show you, the driver, real-time engine, and transmission and chassis performance data. It can also download data log-selected engine parameters directly to a USB stick, and it can record power runs, 0-60mph, 11/48-mile and 11/44-mile, and track fuel consumption and cost.
Applications
'07 G5 GT
MSRP
$799
Linear logic llc
(888) 433-5664 * www.scangauge.com
What is it?
ScanGauge II
Why you need it:
Add a trip computer, gauges, and troubleshooting electronics to your OBD-II equipped Pontiac. This product is easy to hook up. All it takes is one simple connection to the diagnostic connector under your dash and you get up to 12 digital gauges, including instantaneous miles-per-gallon, battery voltage, coolant and intake air temperature.
Applications
'96 and up Pontiacs
MSRP
$169
PLX Devices Inc.
(408) 745-7591 * www.plxdevices.com
What is it?
R-500 Wideband Air/Fuel Data Logging Computer
Why you need it:
This product includes programmable features for dyno, track, autocross, street or dragstrip. It includes an air/fuel ratio measurement, EGT, knock sensing, real-time gauges, and software. Eighty minutes of data can be stored and downloaded to your PC for analysis.
Applications
'96 and up Pontiacs
MSRP
$579