Canems / Lloyd Specialist Developments

[ChrisJC]

Evening All,
I am coming to the conclusion that my Thor engine is too different from standard for my Motronic ECU. Although it runs OK, idle is bad because the ECU is convinced there is a fault. I suspect the cam is too wild for the calibration, and as far as I am aware, this aspect cannot be changed.

I am contemplating one of these:
https://www.lloydspecialistdevelopments ... -rover-v8/

Anyone used one?

Chris.

[DaveEFI]

Pretty certain the Bosch can be remapped - but dunno what this costs.

Any of the aftermarket ECU systems can work OK. That tends to be down to the installation and tuning. With a none standard engine, it won't be possible to get an off the shelf map. So you'll have to pay extra to have it mapped, or learn how to DIY.

[ChrisJC]

What seems to be the case is that the aftermarket ones require the engine to be rewired, and probably have new sensors fitted that are compatible with the ECU.

It would be easier if there were a plug & play one that just fitted the 'Thor' loom...

Chris.

[DaveEFI]

Plug and play units only tend to get produced where there is a suitable demand. And the Bosch system on the Thor is pretty good, so no real reason to change it - except with a modified engine. And with a modified engine, you'd not get a plug and play unit anyway, as too many variables, mapping wise.

I'm only familiar with MegaSquirt. Generally, it can cope with any sensors fitted to the engine, as it will calibrate to suit them. Fairly common to ignore an AFM or MAF, and use the internal vacuum sensor instead. There can be a problem with the tach signal from the engine, depending on what type of trigger wheel and sensor it uses. But don't think this is the case with the Thor.

As regards the loom, no big deal to hack off the Bosch connector and fit the appropriate one for your new ECU. MS, for example, uses standard D connectors which are low cost and can be bought from many sources. Of course if you want a totally waterproof system to go wading with, it is a whole new ballgame.

The Canems is very good - I have a relation with one in his rally Escort. But he had it pro installed and tuned. And took the advice of those doing the work - as they will all have their favourite.

BTW, when you read up about after market systems, you either see adverts praising them, or a site dealing with problems. Bit like this site. People ask for advice on problems. They don't post saying everything is just fine.

[stevieturbo]

What seems to be the case is that the aftermarket ones require the engine to be rewired, and probably have new sensors fitted that are compatible with the ECU.

It would be easier if there were a plug & play one that just fitted the 'Thor' loom...

Chris.

Commonplace to make a patch harness for ecu swaps to make them plug n play. Not that difficult in most cases, but often to make better use of things, additional wiring is needed.
And not all ecu's are flexible in terms of existing sensors or triggers, or control of various actuators etc, although that's less common these days.

A lot depends if you simply want a fitted turnkey package, or are doing the work yourself.