Hypertech POWER PROGRAMMER III User manual

HYPERTECH®
POWER PROGRAMMER III™
FOR GM VEHICLES WITH
4.3/4.8/5.3/6.0/8.1L VORTEC ENGINES
STEP-BY-STEP INSTALLATION
INSTRUCTIONS
PP4
OnStar
Equipped Vehicles
See Pages 4-6
BEFORE
Programming
Part #761
© 2000-2005 Hypertech, Inc.
5.1.05

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Important Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Section 1: OnStar Equipped Vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Section 2: PowerStat™Installation for 4.8/5.3/6.0L . . . . . . . .7
Section 3: Programming Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Information .
10-11
Engine Tuning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Rev Limiter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Top-Speed Limiter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Tire Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Rear Gear Ratio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Transmission Shift Point MPH & RPM . . . . . . 15
Transmission Shift Firmness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Section 4: Programming Back-To-Stock/Changing Options 20
Section 5: Troubleshooting Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

2
IMPORTANT
• The Power Programmer for 1999-2005 4.3/4.8/5.3/6.0/8.1L GM trucks
and SUVs is legal
for California pollution-controlled motor vehicles
according
to the CARB Executive Order process. In the interest of
improved air quality, the California Air Resources Board (CARB)
requires new vehicle and manufacturers of aftermarket parts to develop
engine and emissions equipment that either reduce or maintain specific
air pollutants affected by vehicle use. Both the California Vehicle Code
(section 27156) and Federal Clean Air Act (administered by the
Environmental Protection Agency) prohibit modifications that increase
vehicle emissions. Aftermarket parts manufacturers, particularly in the
high-performance
segment, are required to obtain CARB approval in
the form of executive
Orders (E.O.s) for any product not qualifying as a
direct replacement for an original equipment part. Hypertech includes
meeting all E.O. requirements in its product development process.
This guarantees
that users of Hypertech “Power Tuning” products will
meet certification
requirements when registering, selling, or needing
to pass various emissions tests or Inspection and Maintenance
(I&M) programs administered by state or local enforcement
agencies. Make sure that any emissions-related product you buy and
install carries an E.O. number or is pending an E.O. Without this
verification you are at
risk, in potential violation of regulations
and may incur unnecessary
financial obligations during vehicle
inspections or emissions tests. A CARB E.O. sticker is supplied. Keep
this sticker in your vehicle or attach it inside the door jam as proof that
the Power Programmer is street legal.
• Your vehicle’s computer will not be programmed at the end of the
programming menus until you select “PRESS ‘Y’ TO
BEGIN
PROGRAMMING”, on page 18. Feel free to experiment
with the
programming choices without the fear of accidentally
programming
the wrong information into your vehicle’s computer.
You can make any
choice that you want and change it again and again, without program-
ming it into your vehicle’s computer, until you are absolutely ready.
• While the programmer is programming:
* DO NOT leave the vehicle while programming is in process.
* DO NOT program your vehicle without a fully charged battery.
If after you have programmed your vehicle’s computer with the
Hypertech Power Programmer and you decide to change the
tuning, It is recommended that you recharge your vehicle’s
battery. You may either drive the vehicle to charge the battery
or use a battery charger. But either way, MAKE sure that the
battery holds a full charge.
* DO NOT disturb the cable while programming.
* The ONLYtime you may remove the programmer cable from
the DLC safely is PRIOR to pressing ‘Y’ to program your
entries. However, any programming choices you have made
WILL NOT be saved. NOTE: It is NOT safe to unplug the
programmer cable any time AFTER you have pressed ‘Y’ to
program.
* DO NOT turn the key off UNLESS
instructed by the programmer.
* DO NOT start the engine.

3
Any of these actions will interrupt the programming process.
The programmer is designed to recover from these conditions,
but they should be avoided.
HYPERTECH POWER PROGRAMMER III
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS OVERVIEW
Congratulations! You are the owner of the Power Programmer III,
the latest in high-performance tuning technology. Now you can optimize
your engine’s tuning, as well as adjust other vehicle parameters
(see table of contents), all at the touch of a button.
Your vehicle has an onboard computer that controls the engine
and transmission. Inside your vehicle’s computer is a FLASH
memory chip which contains the vehicle’s programming. The
programmer actually reprograms this FLASH computer chip,
according to your specifications, with Hypertech’s Power Tuning.
This is the only way an individual can reprogram some 1994-1995
and all 1996 and newer vehicles sold in the United States.
To reprogram your vehicle’s computer, simply plug the
programmer cable into the vehicle’s diagnostic connector
located under the dash panel on the driver’s side. Set the parking
brake. Next, turn the ignition key to RUN but do not start the
engine. Press the ▲arrow on the programmer. It will then identify
your vehicle and display a series of options on its screen. When
completed, turn the key to OFF and disconnect the cable from the
diagnostic connector. Now you’re ready to Feel the Power!
Hypertech’s Power Tuning can be stored in only one (1)
vehicle at a time. The Power Programmer can be reconnected
to remove the Power Tuning and return the vehicle to the factory
programming at any time. After you have performed this step,
your vehicle will be in its stock configuration.
You may also reconnect your programmer at any time to change
the programming. For example, if you have replaced your factory
tires with different diameter tires, you will want to correct your
speedometer, odometer, and automatic transmission shift points.
Simply reconnect your programmer, answer the necessary option(s),
and reprogram your vehicle. You do not have to return to stock first.

4
SECTION 1: ONSTAR EQUIPPED VEHICLES
If your GM vehicle is equipped with the OnStar system, you
MUST temporarily disable the system BEFORE programming
your vehicle with the Power Programmer III. Please follow the
steps below to temporarily disable the OnStar system.
General Precautions
Many new vehicles are equipped with daytime running lights,
or sensors that turn the headlights on in dim situations automatically
when the ignition is on. For the purposes of programming the
vehicle this presents an unnecessary extra drain on the vehicle
battery. Many new vehicles have a procedure for turning off
the lights. Often this is accomplished by pressing the “Dome
Override” button two (2) to four (4) times in succession.
We recommend that your headlights be off when programming
your vehicle for added safety against corrupt programming due
to battery failure. See your owner’s manual for vehicle specific
information regarding your headlights.
Recommended Precautions
The OnStar system by GM periodically communicates with the
vehicle. This periodic communication with the vehicle has been
known to disrupt the programming process. In order to
prevent
disruption of the programming process, it is recommended
that
the OnStar system be disabled while programming the vehicle.
To temporarily disable your OnStar system in 4.8/5.3/6.0/8.1L
GM vehicles, remove the fuse(s) associated with OnStar. Please
refer to the fuse section of your owner’s manual for instructions
and locations of fuse(s).
The fuse panel will be under the hood of
the vehicle on the driver’s
side behind the battery. In most cases
there will be one (1) fuse in that fuse panel the OnStar system
relies on. See page 5 for an example. For 4.3L GM SUVs, follow
the steps on page 6 to temporarily disable the OnStar system.
When the OnStar system is successfully disabled, its indicator
light on the dash or rearview mirror will be OFF. Be sure that
this light is off when the key is in the ON position (engine not
running) BEFORE programming the vehicle. This will ensure
that there are no OnStar related problems.
Recovery From OnStar Related
Power Programmer Hang-up
If the programmer stops programming
for an extended period of
time, perform the following steps to recover and/or continue pro-
gramming (see next page):

5
INFO
SBA
RADIO AMP
TREC
SEO B1RADIO
EAP
W/S WASH
W/S WASH
CRANK
BTSI
A/C COMP
RR WPR
The fuse panel is located on the driver’s
side of the vehicle behind the vehicle battery.
Lift off the cover to access the fuse block.
You now can remove the fuse. To remove
the fuse, hold the end of the fuse between
your thumb and index finger and pull
straight out. Make sure you remember
to re-install the fuse in the proper location
and re-install the fuse panel cover after
programming your vehicle.
Fuse panel
cover
For All 4.8/5.3/6.0/8.1L
GM vehicles
TBC
HAZ LP
RR WPR
RDO AMP
CIGAR
HTD MIR
SEO 2
RADIO
CTSY LP
IGN C
FOG LP
BTSI
FOG LP
AUX PWR
A/C
A/C
HORN
HORN
W/W PMP
DRL
SEO 1
1999-2002 GM vehicle fuse diagram
** Do Not Turn The Ignition Key Off**
1. Disconnect the programmer from the vehicle.
2. Reconnect the programmer to the vehicle.
3. Press the START button on the programmer.
The programmer will resume communications with the vehicle
where it left off. If the programmer fails to re-establish communi-
cations with the vehicle, repeat the procedure. If the programmer
still fails to resume, disconnect the programmer and turn the
vehicle off. Attempt to start your vehicle. If your vehicle fails to
start, the vehicle computer may have been corrupted, and you
will need to send your vehicle computer and programmer to
Hypertech for repair. If the vehicle starts, you will need to return
your programmer to Hypertech for re-initialization, no harm was
done to the vehicle computer.
For 1999-2002 vehicles, the one (1) fuse that must be removed is
as follows: (see highlighted fuse location above.)
Location Description
SEO1 Special Equipment Option, OnStar
For 2003-2005 vehicles, the one (1) fuse that must be removed is
as follows: (see highlighted fuse location below.)
Location
INFO
Description
OnStar
NOTE:Owner’s manual fuse diagram may vary from examples shown.
2003-2005 GM vehicle fuse diagram
(Illustration does not represent entire fuse diagram)

6
NOTE for 1999-2002 GM vehicles: If the previous step
did not turn off the OnStar light on the dash, follow these
steps to remove three (3) other OnStar related fuses:
The three (3) fuses that must
be removed are as follows:
(see highlighted
fuse locations to the right.)
Location Description
SEO IGN Special Equipment
Option, Ignition,
OnStar
RDO 1 Audio System,
OnStar
RAP #2
Rear Power Windows,
Sunroof, Radio,
OnStar
NOTE: Owner’s manual
fuse diagram may vary
from example shown.
Disabling OnStar
in 4.3L GM SUVs
To temporarily disable the OnStar
system in 4.3L GM SUVs, the plug
to the OnStar computer must be
disconnected. The OnStar computer is
located in the back of the vehicle under
the passenger’s side rear interior cover
(See Figure A). To remove the cover,
release the clip and swing out. See
Figure B. Squeeze the blue and grey
tabs on the connector and pull up
to temporarily disconnect the OnStar
system in the vehicle.
What To Do After Programming Your Vehicle
After the vehicle computer has been successfully programmed,
reinstall the fuse(s) removed that are OnStar related to enable the
system for 4.8/5.3/6.0/8.1L vehicles, making sure the proper
amperage fuse is in each location and the fuse panel cover(s)
arereinstalled.For 4.3L GM vehicles, plug the OnStar connector
back to the original location and reinstall the interior cover.
Figure A
Figure B
OnStar
computer
OnStar
connector
➚
➚

7
SECTION 2: POWERSTAT INSTALLATION
For 1999-2003 4.8/5.3/6.0L GM vehicles
Tools needed:
10mm socket, ratchet, and extension
Slip joint pliers
DEX-COOL anti-freeze coolant
NOTE: The thermostat in this engine is a “housing” style
thermostat. It is located on the front of the water pump
assembly at the bottom edge of the passenger side
cylinder head. (See Figure C)
Part #1015 - 180° PowerStat (1999-2003 ONLY)
1. Make sure that the vehicle is parked on a level surface before
installing the Hypertech PowerStat.
2. Allow the vehicle coolant to cool.
3. Turn the surge tank cap counter-clockwise very slowly to
remove the pressure from the cooling system. If you hear a
hissing or spurting sound, stop and let the pressure bleed off.
When the hissing or spurting sound goes away, finish
removing the surge tank cap.
4. Open the radiator drain plug and drain the coolant from the
vehicle.
5. Remove the radiator hose from the stock thermostat.
6. Remove the two (2) 10mm bolts holding the stock thermostat
to the engine. (You may want to use an extension on the
socket wrench for easier access.)
7. Lift out the stock thermostat. Use a flathead screwdriver to
gently pry, if necessary. Clean all the sealing surfaces.
8. Install the Hypertech PowerStat, making sure the O Ring is
sealed properly. For ease of installation, you may want to
apply a small amount of grease to the PowerStat to help
retain the O Ring.
NOTE: After installing
the PowerStat, if any
coolant needs to be
added to the vehicle,
make sure you
put the same color
coolant back into the
vehicle. If your vehicle
has orange coolant,
replace with orange
coolant. If green,
replace with green.
To complete your performance package, you may choose to use
a low-temp thermostat. Replacing the factory thermostat with a
Hypertech PowerStat will allow the engine to run cooler, increasing
power, and reducing the engine’s tendency to detonate.
•For 4.3 & 8.1L vehicles, Hypertech recommends using
the stock
thermostat. For 1999-2003 4.8/5.3/6.0L vehicles,
Hypertech recommends
using the 180° PowerStat. The
PowerStat is NOT available for 2004-2005 GM trucks/SUVs.
• WARNING: Never attempt to change a
thermostat on a hot engine.
• Serious injury can occur if the radiator cap
is removed while the cooling system is hot.
• The engine should always be cold when
installing the Powerstat.

8
9. Reinstall the thermostat bolts and any hoses removed. Torque
the bolts to 7 ft.-lbs.
10. Close the radiator drain plug.
11. Fill the cooling system with the proper water/coolant
mixture. Refer to the owners manual for the correct ratio.
Pour the coolant into the surge tank.
12. Start the engine and let it idle for approximately one (1)
minute.
13. Reinstall the surge tank cap.14. Cycle the engine from idle to
3000 RPM in thirty (30) to forty (40) second intervals. This
needs to be done until the engine coolant temperature reaches
210°F or 99°C.
15. When the cooling system is at the proper temperature, shut
off the engine. Remove the surge tank cap as described in
Step 3.
16. Leaving the surge tank cap off, start the engine and let it idle
for one (1) minute. Then, fill the surge tank with the coolant
mixture to 1/2” above the “Fill Cold” mark on the surge tank.
Now reinstall the surge tank cap.
17. Repeat Step 14 once more, then shut off the engine.
18. Allow the vehicle coolant to cool, then remove the surge tank
cap again as described in Step 3. Top off the coolant system
to 1/2” above the “Fill Cold” mark on the surge tank, then
tighten the surge tank cap.
Figure C
IMPORTANT:
NEVER MIX ORDINARY ANTI-FREEZE (GREEN)
WITH DEX-COOL ANTI-FREEZE (ORANGE)
OR YOU MAY DAMAGE THE COOLING SYSTEM

9
SECTION 3: PROGRAMMING INSTRUCTIONS
• Connect one (1) end of the provided cable to the programmer
as in Figure D and tighten the two (2) thumbscrews.
• See Figure E. Locate the Data Link Connector (DLC) under the
driver’s side of the dash panel above the emergency brake.
• Plug the programmer cable into the DLC. Make sure the cable
is plugged in completely to ensure a good connection.
• Set the parking brake to turn off the DRLs (Day-Light Running
Lamps) and turn the ignition key to the RUN position, but do
not start the engine.
IMPORTANT:
-DO NOT leave the vehicle while programming is in process.
-Make sure the vehicle battery is fully charged before programming.
-The key must remain in the RUN position, without the engine
running, during the entire programming process.
-DO NOT operate electrical accessories
(radio, windows, wipers, etc.) while programming.
- If the vehicle is equipped with an OnStar system, make sure
the system is temporarily disabled (see Section 1 for details).
- DO NOT attempt programming while the
vehicle is connected to a battery charger.
Figure D
Programmer
Thumbscrew
Thumbscrew
Figure E

10
• Press the ▲arrow on the programmer. The following displays
should appear immediately on the LCD screen (where X.X.X.X
is the version number):
• If these screens do not appear, make sure that both ends of the
cable are securely attached and press the ▲arrow again.
• The programmer will show applications and copyright
information. The programmer will then identify your vehicle
and perform a self-test. A few seconds after the self-test is
complete, the VIN number of the vehicle will be shown and
a screen should appear with a description
of your vehicle:
• If this screen does not appear, make sure that the key is in the
RUN position with the engine NOT running.
• The programmer will display a series of options. For each
option press the ‘Y’ button to make a change. Press the ‘N’
button to make no change and proceed to the next option.
For some options, you will use the ▲and ▼arrows to point
to a particular option. Pressing the ‘Y’ button will then lock in
your selection. This screen will now appear:
• The Power Programmer is checking the vehicle for any
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs). If no DTCs are found,
this screen will appear:
• If no DTCs are found, the Power Programmer will then go
to Step A (Engine Tuning). If any DTCs are found, this screen
will appear:
HYPERTECH
POWER PROGRAMMER
VERSION
X.X.X.X
CHECKING FOR DIAGNOSTIC
TROUBLE CODES (DTCS)
NO DTCS REPORTED
“X” DTCS REPORTED
YOUR VEHICLE IS:
XXXX CHEVROLET TRUCK/SUV X.XL
FOR XXXX GMC AND
CHEVROLET TRUCKS

11
• “X” represents the number of DTCs found in the vehicle.
This screen will now appear:
• Press ‘Y’ to view the DTC(s) found in the vehicle. Press ‘N’ to
clear the DTC(s) without viewing them. If you press ‘Y’, these
screens will appear:
• Press the ‘N’ button to view the next DTC (if any). Once you
have viewed all the DTCs, this screen will appear:
• Press ‘Y’ to view the DTC(s) again. Press ‘N’ to continue.
If you press ‘N’, this screen will appear:
• Press ‘N’ to exit the program. This screen will appear:
• Press ‘Y’ for the Power Programmer to clear the DTC(s).
These screens will now appear:
VIEW DTCS = Y
CLEAR DTCS = N
DTC #1 --- PXXXX
NEXT DTC = N
NO MORE DTCS, TO VIEW AGAIN, PRESS Y
TO CONTINUE, PRESS N
DTCS MUST BE CLEARED BEFORE CHANGING PROGRAM. TO CLEAR DTCS PRESS Y
TO KEEP DTCS AND EXIT PROGRAM PRESS N
TURNING POWER
PROGRAMMER OFF
CLEARING DTCS
ALL DTCS HAVE
BEEN CLEARED
WRITE DOWN THE FOLLOWING DTCS AND REFER TO
FACTORY MANUALS FOR EXPLANATION
Hypertech, Inc. recommends proper diagnosis and repair of reported DTCs prior
to programming. For Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) interpretations, refer to
factory manuals, see your local parts dealer, or visit internet sites
that provide this type of information. An example of such a website is:
www.bentlypublishers.com/tech/vw/dtc.table.htm
IMPORTANT NOTE

12
•
The Power Programmer has now successfully cleared the DTC(s)
found in the vehicle computer. This screen will now appear:
A. ENGINE TUNING
• Press the ‘Y’ button to install engine tuning. Press ‘N’ to keep
the stock vehicle tuning.
•
If you pressed the ‘Y’ button for engine tuning, use the ▲and ▼
arrows to select between premium octane and regular octane
engine tuning. Press ‘Y’ when you have selected the proper
tuning for your vehicle (see below for details).
B. REV LIMITER
• Press ‘N’ to keep the stock engine rev limiter. Making this
choice will skip to the next option.
• Press ‘Y’ to adjust the engine rev limiter to a value other than
stock. The stock rev limiter may vary depending on year and
engine size of the vehicle. Please refer to the owner’s manual
for the stock engine rev limiter.
• Press the ▲and ▼arrows to increase or decrease the engine
rev limiter. The rev limiter can be increased or decreased in
100 RPM increments. Press ‘Y’ to lock in the desired value.
NOTE: At any time, you may press ‘N’ to allow you to either
try again or skip to the next option.
TO ENTER POWER PROGRAMMER MODE, PRESS Y
TO EXIT PROGRAM, PRESS N
USE UP/DOWN ARROWS TO CHOOSE FUEL OCTANE THAT WILL BE USED, THEN PRESS Y TO SELECT OR N TO EXIT.
_ _ OCTANE
TO INSTALL HYPERTECH POWER TUNING, PRESS Y
TO KEEP FACTORY ENGINE TUNING, PRESS N
TO ADJUST ENGINE REV LIMITER, PRESS Y
TO KEEP STOCK ENGINE REV LIMIT, PRESS N
USE UP/DOWN ARROWS TO ADJUST ENGINE REV LIMITER, THEN PRESS Y TO SELECT OR N TO EXIT.
_ _ _ _RPM
Do You Know What You’re Pumping Into Your Vehicle?
For purposes of improved air quality, availability of Reformulated
gas (RFG) is being required in some parts of the country. Hypertech
is including Power Tuning for select vehicles using this gasoline,
sometimes called “oxygenated fuel”. We encourage our customers
to identify the type of gasoline being used and select the Hypertech
Power Tuning accordingly.

13
C. TOP-SPEED LIMITER
• Press the ‘N’ button to keep your vehicle’s stock top-speed
limiter and skip to the next option.
• If you have installed factory-approved high-performance
tires, press the ‘Y’ button to change your vehicle’s top-speed
limiter to match the speed rating of those tires. The speed
rating or speed symbol will be found on the sidewall of your
tires. Here are the corresponding symbols and maximum
top-speed limits that can be programmed into your vehicle:
D. TIRE SIZE
• Press ‘N’ if the original size tires are being used.
• Press ‘Y’ if you have installed tires with an overall height that
is different than the original factory tires. This feature will
allow you to adjust your speedometer and shift points (for
automatic transmissions) for the new tire height. The ▲and ▼
arrows will allow adjustments of 1/4” increments. Maximum
and minimum tire height that can be adjusted depend on the
year, make, and model of the vehicle. Press the ‘Y’ button
to lock in the desired value. At any time you may press ‘N’
to allow you to either try again or skip to the next option.
TO ADJUST TOP SPEED LIMIT TO MATCH SPEED RATING OF HIGH-PERFORMANCE TIRES, PRESS Y
TO KEEP STOCK TOP SPEED LIMIT, PRESS N
USE UP/DOWN ARROWS TO ADJUST TOP SPEED LIMIT, THEN PRESS Y TO SELECT OR N TO EXIT.
_ – –_ _ _ MPH
S - 110 MPH
T - 116 MPH
H - 128 MPH
IF TIRE HEIGHT HAS BEEN CHANGED FROM ORIGINAL, PRESS Y
IF TIRE HEIGHT HAS NOT BEEN CHANGED, PRESS N
USE UP/DOWN ARROWS TO CHOOSE CORRECT TIRE HEIGHT, THEN PRESS Y TO SELECT OR N TO EXIT.
_ _._ _”
If you do not know your tire height, ask your tire dealer or measure a tire as follows:
1. Place a chalk mark on the tire where it contacts the pavement and also
mark the pavement. These marks should be at the center of the tire
footprint pointing straight down to the pavement.
2. Roll the vehicle in a straight line until the chalk mark makes one revolution
and is pointing straight down at the pavement again. Mark the pavement
again at this new spot.
3.
Measure (in inches) the distance between the two (2) marks on the pavement.
Divide the measurement by 3.1416. This will give you the tire height in inches.
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you have an 8.1L GM vehicle, the
next option to be shown on the programmer screen after the
tire size option will be transmission (Section F).

14
E. REAR GEAR RATIO
• Press ‘N’ if the rear gear ratio has not been changed from
the factory installed gear. Making this choice will skip to
the next option.
• Press ‘Y’ if you have installed a rear gear with a ratio that
is different than the original factory gear. This choice will
recalibrate your speedometer/odometer readings and part- throt-
tle shifting for automatic transmissions for the new gear ratio.
Press the ▲and ▼arrows to see all of the gear ratios available
for your vehicle.
• Press ‘Y’ to lock in the gear ratio that you have installed.
At any time you may press ‘N’ to allow you to either try
again or skip to the next option.
NOTE: For automatic transmissions, a selection of any of
the available rear gear ratios will automatically set
wide-open throttle shifts similar to original factory
RPM settings for the new rear gear ratio.
F. TRANSMISSION
•
If your 8.1L vehicle is equipped with an Allison transmission, the
programmer will not offer rear gear or transmission options. Press ‘Y’
and the programmer will skip to the Report. If your 8.1L vehicle
is not equipped with an Allison transmission, press ‘N’ and the
programmer will proceed to the rear gear ratio (Section E) options,
then go into the shift points (Section G) and shift firmness (Section H) options.
•
If you have a 4.3/4.8/5.3/6.0L vehicle and press ‘Y’, the programmer
will continue with the shift points and shift firmness options.
If you press ‘N’, the programmer will skip to the Report.
CAUTION!
The speedometer and odometer will not be corrected accurately
if you use one (1) of the following tire size/rear gear ratio combinations:
4.10 gear with a tire height smaller than 26 inches
4.56 gear with a tire height smaller than 29 inches
IF REAR AXLE RATIO HAS BEEN CHANGED FROM ORIGINAL, PRESS Y
IF REAR AXLE RATIO HAS NOT BEEN CHANGED, PRESS N
USE UP/DOWN ARROWS TO SELECT CORRECT REAR AXLE RATIO, THEN PRESS Y TO SELECT OR N TO EXIT.
_ _ _ – –_._ _:1
IF YOU HAVE AN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, PRESS Y
IF YOU HAVE A MANUAL TRANSMISSION, PRESS N
IF YOU HAVE AN ALLISON TRANSMISSION, PRESS Y
IF YOU DO NOT HAVE AN ALLISON TRANSMISSION, PRESS N

15
G. TRANSMISSION SHIFT POINT MPH & RPM
(AUTOMATICS ONLY)
Be sure to read and understand this entire section before
attempting to reprogram your shift points.
The shift point option allows you to change the RPM at which
your transmission shifts at wide-open throttle, to find the very best
shift points for maximum acceleration. You can try optimizing
the shift points using the seat-of-your-pants technique, but how
will you know if your e.t.’s improved? The only accurate method
for this optimization is at the track with timing slips as the
measuring device.
In order to optimize the performance of any vehicle, consistent
test results are necessary. If a vehicle varies plus or minus
1/10th of a second in the quarter-mile, run to run, with no
changes, it is impossible to test any product (shift point, starting
line RPM, etc.) that has the potential to gain 1/10th or 2/10ths of
a second, because the gains or losses on any one (1) run could be
due to inconsistency rather than the variable being tested.
Therefore, before testing anything, make the vehicle consistent.
Wheel-spin, if present, is the overwhelming cause of incon-
sistency. You must develop a starting-line technique that gives
you the best repeatable elapsed times. Tires are the most impor-
tant product you need to cure wheel-spin. For street-driven
vehicles, we recommend D.O.T. approved street slicks as large
as you can fit under the wheel wells of your vehicle. In any case,
before testing shift points, arrive at the starting line technique that
gives you the best repeatable results, with or without slicks.
Throw out any run with excessive wheel-spin, and try to get
at least three (3) runs that repeat within 4 or 5 hundredths of a
second. Then average them and use this average value (not just
your best run) for all testing comparisons. Your best e.t.’s will
occur when you leave as hard as you can without wheel-spin.
Confirm this by practicing and observing the results.
And finally, a very important point for any and all high-
performance testing: always test only one (1) variable at a
time until it is optimized. For shift point optimization, this
means test only one (1) shift point at a time until the best RPM is
found, leaving all other shift points alone. Once the best 1-2 shift
point is found, program it in and leave it. Then repeat the same
optimization procedure for the 2-3 shift point.

16
It is not usually necessary to optimize the 3-4 shift point (unless
the gearing in the vehicle causes the shift to occur during the 1/4-
mile run) because it will occur at a speed so high that it is out of
range, even on a race track. However, if gearing is causing either
the 2-3 or the 3-4 shift to occur just before the end of the 1/4-mile,
you should try raising the shift point enough to allow the vehicle
to cross the finish line without making that last shift.
The highest shift point RPM you can use must always
be less than the rev limit RPM. If you do hit the rev limit,
the computer will shut the fuel off until RPM drops sufficiently,
so let off the throttle and abort that test run. The rev limiter is
there to protect your valve-train and the engine from damage.
Even if you went quicker every time you raised the shift point
RPM, stop at 100 RPM below the rev limit. That’s the most
RPM you can use safely for that shift point.
•This is the first screen you will see:
• If you press ‘Y’, you will see the following screen:
• Press the ▲arrow once for 1 MPH, twice for 2 MPH, etc. and
then press the ‘Y’ button to enter your 1-2 shift point choice.
If you don’t want to change the 1-2 shift point, enter a zero,
and press ‘Y’.
The automatic transmission shift point adjustment range is:
1-2 shift: +/-6 MPH (In 1 MPH increments)
2-3 shift: +/-12 MPH (In 1 MPH increments)
3-4 shift: +/-18 MPH (In 1 MPH increments)
After downloading the 1-2 shift point you want to test,
disconnect the programmer and make your test runs (At least
three (3), but as many as needed to get three (3) good runs for
averaging.). If you’ve seen a gain, continue moving in that
direction until you begin to slow down or until you are within
100 RPM of the rev limiter. You can now review all of your
test results, select the best 1-2 shift point for your vehicle,
and program it in. If two (2) different shift points run the same
average e.t.’s, use the lower MPH and RPM to save wear and tear
on the vehicle. Repeat the same procedure for the 2-3 shift and
the 3-4 shift.
TO ADJUST TRANSMISSION SHIFT POINTS, PRESS Y
TO KEEP STOCK SHIFT POINTS, PRESS N
USE UP/DOWN ARROWS TO ADJUST SHIFT POINTS, THEN PRESS Y TO SELECT OR N TO EXIT.
1-2 SHIFT +0 MPH

17
NOTE: These tables are for general reference ONLY.
Vehicles will vary slightly depending on tire
height and accuracy of the tachometer.
GM VEHICLE
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFT TABLES
(30” Tire Height)
REAR GEAR RATIO 2.73:1
1-2 SHIFT 2-3 SHIFT 3-4 SHIFT
1 MPH = 1 MPH = 1 MPH =
94 RPM 50 RPM 31 RPM
REAR GEAR RATIO 3.08:1
1-2 SHIFT 2-3 SHIFT 3-4 SHIFT
1 MPH = 1 MPH = 1 MPH =
105 RPM 56 RPM 34 RPM
REAR GEAR RATIO 3.23:1
1-2 SHIFT 2-3 SHIFT 3-4 SHIFT
1 MPH = 1 MPH = 1 MPH =
111 RPM 59 RPM 36 RPM
REAR GEAR RATIO 3.42:1
1-2 SHIFT 2-3 SHIFT 3-4 SHIFT
1 MPH = 1 MPH = 1 MPH =
117 RPM 62 RPM 38 RPM
REAR GEAR RATIO 3.73:1
1-2 SHIFT 2-3 SHIFT 3-4 SHIFT
1 MPH = 1 MPH = 1 MPH =
128 RPM 68 RPM 42 RPM
REAR GEAR RATIO 4.10:1
1-2 SHIFT 2-3 SHIFT 3-4 SHIFT
1 MPH = 1 MPH = 1 MPH =
141 RPM 75 RPM 46 RPM
REAR GEAR RATIO 4.56:1
1-2 SHIFT 2-3 SHIFT 3-4 SHIFT
1 MPH = 1 MPH = 1 MPH =
156 RPM 83 RPM 51 RPM

18
H.
TRANSMISSION SHIFT FIRMNESS (AUTOMATICS ONLY)
• Press ‘Y’ if you have installed an aftermarket shift kit into your
automatic transmission. The shift kit has already firmed up
your shifts. You do not want your programmer to make them
even firmer because transmission damage may occur.
NOTE: Pressing ‘Y’ lets your programmer know that it is
not to program shift firmness and you will skip to
the Report.
• Press ‘N’ if you have not installed an aftermarket shift kit into
your automatic transmission. Pressing ‘N’ will give you the
following choice:
• Press ‘N’ to keep the stock shift firmness. Press ‘Y’ to increase
the firmness of shifts. Firmer and quicker shifts reduce the loss
of power to friction as the clutch packs “lock-up” during shifts,
allowing more power to the rear wheels.
I. REPORT
• After your last choice has been made, this screen will appear
and list all of your choices:
• Watch the screen as your choices scroll by on the bottom line.
Now these two (2) alternating screens will appear:
• If all choices are correct, press ‘Y’ to start programming.
If you want to make a change to your choices, press the
‘N’ button to start over from the beginning.
TO INCREASE TRANSMISSION SHIFT FIRMNESS, PRESS Y
TO KEEP STOCK SHIFT FIRMNESS, PRESS N
YOU HAVE CHOSEN
..........
PRESS Y TO BEGIN
PROGRAMMING
PRESS N TO
CHANGE OPTIONS
IF YOU HAVE INSTALLED AN AFTERMARKET SHIFT KIT, PRESS Y
TO CONTINUE, PRESS N

19
J. PROGRAMMING
IMPORTANT NOTE: On certain applications, the dash
message center may display random code information such as
reduced engine power. This is a NORMAL step during the
programming process for certain applications.
•
First, the programmer will read out your vehicle’s stock program.
•
When the programmer has finished this, it will wait a few seconds
and then begin programming the changes into your vehicle.
• This display will show percentage completion while the
programming is taking place. While the unit is programming,
the following is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT:
* DO NOT LEAVE THE VEHICLE WHILE
PROGRAMMING IS IN PROCESS.
* DO NOT DISTURB THE CABLE.
* DO NOT TURN THE KEY OFF.
* DO NOT START THE ENGINE.
* IF THE UNIT STOPS PROGRAMMING OR IS
INTERRUPTED, PLEASE MAKE A NOTE OF ANY
MESSAGE(S) THAT APPEAR ON THE PROGRAMMER
SCREEN. THIS WILL BE HELPFUL TO OUR
TECHNICAL DEPARTMENT.
• Any one of these actions will disturb the programming process.
The programmer is designed to recover from these conditions,
but they should be avoided.
• Programming is complete when the unit reaches 100%.
(Programming takes approximately 1.5 to 2 minutes)
The following screens will appear:
READING COMPUTER
XX%
WRITING COMPUTER
XX%
IMPORTANT NOTE: If during the reading and/or programming stage, the Power Programmer does
not show an increase in percentage for at least five (5) minutes, LEAVE THE KEY IN THE ‘ON’
POSITION and unplug the Power Programmer from the diagnostic port. Then, reinsert the cable into
the diagnostic port and press the ▲button. This will allow the programming to continue. If the problem
continues, call Hypertech at 901-382-8888.
TURN KEY OFF
FOR 30 SECONDS
HYPERTECH POWER
TUNING INSTALLED
TO END, PRESS Y
AND UNPLUG CABLE
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