Any X51 powerkit owners got softronic?
05-05-2013, 03:41 PM
#2
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(As also posted on 6SOL) I have, since 2009. As it was explained to me when I bought it, the Softronic 'tuned' file is directly based on the original X51 file that I uploaded and sent to Softronic for them to apply their tuning.
Over the years (and with addition of several mods, see my garage if you're interested) I've regularly switched between the Softronic and the original Porsche X51 files.
When I first switched to the Softronic map I was sure it made some improvement, but some of that was probably down to the lightened wallet and because applying the file resets the DME (as happens when you unplug the DME or disconnect the battery).
That said, the extra power and torque from the 997.1 X51 powerkit all happens from 5000-7400RPM. From 3000-4500RPM the Softronic might make a difference, but I only tend to use full power above 4500RPM so the Softronic might be wasted on me.
From my experience the biggest tangible difference with the Softronic is the raised rev limiter (from 7450 to about 7600RPM). To me that suggests the original X51 map is pretty well sorted, and leaves little if any untapped performance potential for the Softronic to unlock.
Like the Softronic map, the original Porsche X51 map adapts itself well to airflow-improving mods like the 200-cell cats and BMC filters.
I suppose this question is related to your other thread about the X51 airbox and lean running at WOT. If so then the Porsche X51 map would be a good solution for you, if you can find a Porsche dealer or specialist to apply it to your DME (done via PIWIS). If you did that you'd want the full X51 intake manifold to go with it though.
Over the years (and with addition of several mods, see my garage if you're interested) I've regularly switched between the Softronic and the original Porsche X51 files.
When I first switched to the Softronic map I was sure it made some improvement, but some of that was probably down to the lightened wallet and because applying the file resets the DME (as happens when you unplug the DME or disconnect the battery).
That said, the extra power and torque from the 997.1 X51 powerkit all happens from 5000-7400RPM. From 3000-4500RPM the Softronic might make a difference, but I only tend to use full power above 4500RPM so the Softronic might be wasted on me.
From my experience the biggest tangible difference with the Softronic is the raised rev limiter (from 7450 to about 7600RPM). To me that suggests the original X51 map is pretty well sorted, and leaves little if any untapped performance potential for the Softronic to unlock.
Like the Softronic map, the original Porsche X51 map adapts itself well to airflow-improving mods like the 200-cell cats and BMC filters.
I suppose this question is related to your other thread about the X51 airbox and lean running at WOT. If so then the Porsche X51 map would be a good solution for you, if you can find a Porsche dealer or specialist to apply it to your DME (done via PIWIS). If you did that you'd want the full X51 intake manifold to go with it though.
05-05-2013, 04:08 PM
#3
Race Director
I would question a tune for a factory x51 engine real hard since you already have a tuned ECU. Unless you've made a bunch of engine mods like full free flow exhaust, bigger intake, injectors, the maybe you might want to look into a custom tune
05-05-2013, 09:17 PM
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Mdrums, I agree and I think that's what I'm saying too - on my (997.1 X51) car, the Softronic tune of the X51 file has not made much of a difference, at least not in the bit of the rev range that matters to me. Softronic have a good reputation so I don't think that's any reflection on them.
I've tried two different (full) aftermarket exhaust systems: AWE then Cargraphic, both fully butt-dyno-friendly. The original Porsche X51 map seems to adapt to the increased potential output from these just as well as the Softronic.
FWIW - and I'll be the first to admit that no amount of tinkering with my car has made me any better as a driver - I've personally had more joy out of tweaking the suspension (B16 damptronics, GT3 top mounts, RSS solid castor pucks and monoball bushings, 18" OZ wheels) and making the car a bit lighter, than trying to wring more power out of it.
I've tried two different (full) aftermarket exhaust systems: AWE then Cargraphic, both fully butt-dyno-friendly. The original Porsche X51 map seems to adapt to the increased potential output from these just as well as the Softronic.
FWIW - and I'll be the first to admit that no amount of tinkering with my car has made me any better as a driver - I've personally had more joy out of tweaking the suspension (B16 damptronics, GT3 top mounts, RSS solid castor pucks and monoball bushings, 18" OZ wheels) and making the car a bit lighter, than trying to wring more power out of it.
