Initial Tune Instructions

by: Michael Decipha Ponthieux
Posted: 2013-07-15
Last updated: 2021-10-12

WARNING: NEVER return to an earlier tune during the tuning phase, doing so can result in engine damage and/or undesireable results.
An exception to this would be returning to a known good tune in cases where issues occur only in the newest tune.

These instructions are to be followed AFTER the Pre-Tuning Information is verified.

Before loading your custom EFIDynoTuning tune, be sure to perform the following for best results.

ECU Memory Reset

It is very likely your ECU has saved KAM (keep-alive memory) data that it has learned from the previous or stock tune. The adaptive values save idle airmass correction and o2 sensor adjusted fuel correction data. It is highly recommended to clear the previously learned data so the ECU can adapt with new accurate information. The ECU adaptive memory can be erased by disconnecting the battery for approximately 30 minutes NOTE: If your fuel pump runs constantly with your new tune installed, DO NOT TRY TO START THE ENGINE. The fuel pump running constantly is indicative that the tune being served to the ECU is corrupt. Attempting to start the vehicle with a corrupt tune can lead to excessive fueling and possibly engine damage.

Adjust Fuel Pressure Regulator

If you do not have an adjustable fuel pressure regulator then skip this step. With an adjustable fuel pressure regulator, the base fuel pressure with the vacuum line disconnected should USUALLY be set to either 65 psi for those with smaller than 60lb injectors or 40 psi for those with 60lb and larger injectors. For speed density applications with 80lb injectors its typical to run 30psi of base fuel pressure. ALWAYS VERIFY your base fuel pressure is what your tune is set for. Once the base fuel pressure has been set, the fuel pressure should DROP approx. ~8 psi at idle when the vacuum line is re-attached.
For dual fuel direct injected coyote fuel systems (2018+) the port injectors should be set to 65psi and the direct injectors to 40psi. For all other coyote fuel systems (2011-2017) the base fuel pressure should be set to 65 psi.

Verify base timing is 10*dBTDC

If you have an EDIS or DIS ignition system skip this step. It is VERY important that the base timing be set to 10 degrees BTDC, failure to do so can result in engine damage. Base timing can only be set with the SPOUT plug removed at a warm stabilized idle. Be sure the orientation of the distributor is mounted correctly as well, reference the Ignition Write Up for specifics. The orientation of the distributor is necessary for accurate injector timing. Aftermarket distributor's are less accurate and prone to failure. It is highly recommended to reinstall the stock factory distributor if you still have one available. If you have a boost reference ignition box, it is necessary to disable the boost retard function. The ECU will control timing based on boost. It is recommended to set the rev limiter on your ignition box to 6500-6600 rpm, unless discussed otherwise. Base timing must be set to 10dbtdc before base Idle can be adjusted in the next step. DO NOT FORGET TO PLUG THE SPOUT BACK IN ONCE THE BASE TIMING IS SET CORRECTLY AND VERIFIED.

1st Drive to Fuel

It is highly recommended to take your vehicle to the gas station and fill up. Remember only use the highest grade PREMIUM fuel, unless otherwise discussed. Failure to use high octane fuel can result in engine damage. If you forget to fill up with high octane fuel, you do not need to drain your tank. Simply drive the vehicle like a normal human keeping the throttle below approx. 35% until your next fill up. REMEMBER, always FILL UP before going to the track or autocrossing, fuel slosh is real and can cause your engine to run lean. Always keep a full tank of fuel when racing your vehicle. The little bit of weight savings is not worth damaging your engine over. Also note, most aftermarket fuel pumps have a shorter operating life when not completely submerged in fuel. It is highly recommended to keep no less than a half tank at all times.


Continue on to Step 1 - Startup, Idle & Half Throttle
Continue on to Step 2 - WOT Fuel, Spark, and Load Scaling
Continue on to Step 3 - Verify Calibration & Fine Tune


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