Understand tractor health before going for an engine remap
PROFESSIONAL engine remapping is an increasingly common way for farmers to enhance tractor power, but owners should be aware of the potential pitfalls and consequences that could occur if a tractor’s health isn’t considered before engine remapping software is installed.
While, long lead-in times for new machinery and high purchase, or trade-in costs are forcing farmers to consider machinery upgrades more carefully, being able to increase power of existing machinery can be seen as a more cost-effective option.
Engine remapping edits the engine ECU at source within the parameters of the tractor and can safely tailor power to application, but should only be carried out by a professional and qualified person that advises on understanding the tractor’s health before installing any software, according to Gareth Jones, director at Avon Tuning.
His business offers an ECU remapping service for agricultural machines, but he added that testing tractors on a dynamometer before deciding on power increases, will offer a clear indication about the condition of a tractor and whether tuning it is possible, or safe.
“Exerting varying loads on the engine will highlight if there are any concerns about how the tractor is operating. We would never advise installing a remap on a tractor that isn’t mechanically sound, as the consequences in doing so could be detrimental,” pointed out Mr Jones.
“If you are being recommended that your tractor, sprayer, forager or combine can have an increase in power way beyond its current level, you should be questioning how safe that will be.
“Power increases might seem like a cheap way to boost output, but they must be done professionally so that reliability and machine health isn’t compromised.”
According to Mr Jones, Avon operate a trained network of authorised agents installing remaps nationwide and import specialist Dimsport dynamometers to provide accurate tests.