Engine Parameter Monitoring without gauges...Yay/Nay Thread
12-23-2011, 12:51 AM
#1
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Engine Parameter Monitoring without gauges...Yay/Nay Thread
Firstly,
I hate guages coz they just dont look good on a TL (IMO)....but i want to monitor couple engine parameters and am looking for couple options....
Option 1: (kinda biased towards it) PLX WIFI system
It connects to the OBDII port and transmits data via wifi to your iPad/iPhone. The app is DashCommand ($50) and the hardware is ($200). You can connect couple more sensors (Exhaust Gas Temperature + AFR wideband) and have it displayed on the Ipad/Iphone via IMFD. Sensors for EGT and AFR are like $300. So total cost is $550.
Links:
Dash command: http://www.plxkiwi.com/kiwiwifi/software.html
PLX WIFI Hardware: http://www.plxkiwi.com/kiwiwifi/hardware.html
Cons:
No good reviews on the app.
I dont wanna waste $250
$550 YIKES
No (easy, no hassle) return policy, etc
Pros:
Neat graphics
Displays on your Iphone/Ipad, no separate display needed.
G-skid pad is awesome (heard)
Option 2: Scan Gauge II
Connects to the OBDII port...and there is a wire running to the display.....the display is pretty compact but displays all the required parameters....It is like $170 and includes everything....Not read many reviews about it....Some one on the RDX side of the forum did appreciate this device....
Link:
http://www.scangauge.com/products/scangaugeii/
Cons:
I like graphics this does not have them
Extra display
No G-skid pad
Not many reviews on this device
Pros:
Cheap and cost effective
Can buy it at Autozone so if I dont like it/doesnt work I can return it
Blue backlight display
will match my radar detector 
So yeah, if you people have used these products before, please chime in with your reviews.....if you use some other similar products, put em up here....
I will be getting either 1 of the above mentioned products in the next 3-4 weeks....so yeah, temme whats good
I hate guages coz they just dont look good on a TL (IMO)....but i want to monitor couple engine parameters and am looking for couple options....
Option 1: (kinda biased towards it) PLX WIFI system
It connects to the OBDII port and transmits data via wifi to your iPad/iPhone. The app is DashCommand ($50) and the hardware is ($200). You can connect couple more sensors (Exhaust Gas Temperature + AFR wideband) and have it displayed on the Ipad/Iphone via IMFD. Sensors for EGT and AFR are like $300. So total cost is $550.
Links:
Dash command: http://www.plxkiwi.com/kiwiwifi/software.html
PLX WIFI Hardware: http://www.plxkiwi.com/kiwiwifi/hardware.html
Cons:
No good reviews on the app.
I dont wanna waste $250
$550 YIKES
No (easy, no hassle) return policy, etc
Pros:
Neat graphics
Displays on your Iphone/Ipad, no separate display needed.
G-skid pad is awesome (heard)
Option 2: Scan Gauge II
Connects to the OBDII port...and there is a wire running to the display.....the display is pretty compact but displays all the required parameters....It is like $170 and includes everything....Not read many reviews about it....Some one on the RDX side of the forum did appreciate this device....
Link:
http://www.scangauge.com/products/scangaugeii/
Cons:
I like graphics this does not have them
Extra display
No G-skid pad
Not many reviews on this device
Pros:
Cheap and cost effective
Can buy it at Autozone so if I dont like it/doesnt work I can return it
Blue backlight display
will match my radar detector So yeah, if you people have used these products before, please chime in with your reviews.....if you use some other similar products, put em up here....
I will be getting either 1 of the above mentioned products in the next 3-4 weeks....so yeah, temme whats good
12-23-2011, 01:19 AM
#2
Safety Car
I fully agree with the "no gauge approach". When you need the gauges the most (wot) is also the time when you are unable to view the gauges. Thus, Data Logging. Data Logging is the only way to go for serious street tuning. The EVO guys live and die by data logging.
Any of the scanners/loggers can read AFR in the TL. No special optional accessories required. Whereas to read the EGT, an aftermarket gauge and related sensor will need to be used because the TL does not have an OEM EGT sensor.
Related reading -
Data Loggers (click here)
Any of the scanners/loggers can read AFR in the TL. No special optional accessories required. Whereas to read the EGT, an aftermarket gauge and related sensor will need to be used because the TL does not have an OEM EGT sensor.
Related reading -
Data Loggers (click here)
12-23-2011, 08:25 AM
#3
One of the guys I work with told me about the Torque App its for Android and I believe it does all the same things as the PLX device/setup.... and its only $5.
Im using that, my evo 4g, and an ELM327 obd2 bluetooth scanner(Guy at work just gave it to me). I know the screen on my phone is only 4.3 inches, but i plan on getting a android tablet soon enough.
The ELM327 can be found on ebay for around $30.. thats where the one Im using came from(but he said it wasnt a seller from China)
So for like $35 if you have an Android phone/tablet you could have the same thing.
Im using that, my evo 4g, and an ELM327 obd2 bluetooth scanner(Guy at work just gave it to me). I know the screen on my phone is only 4.3 inches, but i plan on getting a android tablet soon enough.
The ELM327 can be found on ebay for around $30.. thats where the one Im using came from(but he said it wasnt a seller from China)
So for like $35 if you have an Android phone/tablet you could have the same thing.
12-23-2011, 09:15 AM
#4
The Track Terror
One of the guys I work with told me about the Torque App its for Android and I believe it does all the same things as the PLX device/setup.... and its only $5.
Im using that, my evo 4g, and an ELM327 obd2 bluetooth scanner(Guy at work just gave it to me). I know the screen on my phone is only 4.3 inches, but i plan on getting a android tablet soon enough.
The ELM327 can be found on ebay for around $30.. thats where the one Im using came from(but he said it wasnt a seller from China)
So for like $35 if you have an Android phone/tablet you could have the same thing.
Im using that, my evo 4g, and an ELM327 obd2 bluetooth scanner(Guy at work just gave it to me). I know the screen on my phone is only 4.3 inches, but i plan on getting a android tablet soon enough.
The ELM327 can be found on ebay for around $30.. thats where the one Im using came from(but he said it wasnt a seller from China)
So for like $35 if you have an Android phone/tablet you could have the same thing.
I'm also using Torque Pro...unfortunately I don't see it for the iphone...just another reason to go Droid!
It shows pretty much all the important gauges in real time and in a *much* more attractive manner than the Scangauge. I was also thinking of the SG before I downloaded the app and got the Bluetooth device on amazon for $25...and I am *ridiculously* glad I did...heads and shoulders above the SG...
This app also DATALOGS and has GPS to record track data. It has a G-meter, true 0-60 times (1/4 mi and all that jazz too...), code checker...it really is amazing and for $5 it is seriously the *BEST* deal of anything EVAR!! I really don't know why he charges so cheap, but I ain't complainin!
App is $5 bluetooth is $25 and you have instant wireless gauges that look beautiful!!
(one drawback, which is kinda big for me and a lot of us, is that it doesn't yet read the transmission temp...although the PID I guess just needs to be found by someone...)
Now I just need a 7" tablet to mount in front of the radio and it would be amazing...instant carputer plus amazing gauges...
Good luck and keep us posted!
Last edited by the fenda rolla; 12-23-2011 at 09:21 AM.
12-23-2011, 09:31 AM
#5
I fully agree with the "no gauge approach". When you need the gauges the most (wot) is also the time when you are unable to view the gauges. Thus, Data Logging. Data Logging is the only way to go for serious street tuning. The EVO guys live and die by data logging.
Any of the scanners/loggers can read AFR in the TL. No special optional accessories required. Whereas to read the EGT, an aftermarket gauge and related sensor will need to be used because the TL does not have an OEM EGT sensor.
Related reading -
Data Loggers (click here)
Any of the scanners/loggers can read AFR in the TL. No special optional accessories required. Whereas to read the EGT, an aftermarket gauge and related sensor will need to be used because the TL does not have an OEM EGT sensor.
Related reading -
Data Loggers (click here)
Excellent.
12-23-2011, 09:41 AM
#6
The Track Terror
One other thing, yes, datalogging is important, but there's nothing like seeing real time data especially for AFR, coolant temp, Intake Air Temp, Long Term Fuel Trim, ignition advance, etc...all of which can be seen on one screen (or individual screens if you want) in amazing looking gauges with the Torque Pro...
(and yes, I am a wholehearted fanboi! One look for yourself, and you will be too! Yes, it's that amazing...and I definitely don't say that about most things...)
(and yes, I am a wholehearted fanboi! One look for yourself, and you will be too! Yes, it's that amazing...and I definitely don't say that about most things...)
Last edited by the fenda rolla; 12-23-2011 at 09:44 AM.
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12-23-2011, 10:06 AM
#8
The Track Terror
I bet all other scan device or gauge reader is just lovely, but Torque Pro seriously BLOWS everything else out of the water, hands down...even better than real physical gauges...seriously...
AND yes, there is a track recorder plug-in...
Here's just a few still pics:
AND yes, there is a track recorder plug-in...
Here's just a few still pics:
12-23-2011, 10:53 AM
#9
I am disliking the look of my gauges too. PLX also has some really thin gauges that interfaces with their modules.
Since you are getting the J&R ECU, have you thought about the logging that can be done there? That was the reason I want a carputer in my TL, so I can have a digital dash where the navi screen is. I am finding as Inacc points out that I really don't use the gauges when they are needed the most because I am too busy driving. So datalogging is my main objective.
Also, there is a device called WiSnap (Wireless Serial Adapter) and MobiSquirt (iPhone/Android App) that can do digital dash from a MS based ECU.
Since you are getting the J&R ECU, have you thought about the logging that can be done there? That was the reason I want a carputer in my TL, so I can have a digital dash where the navi screen is. I am finding as Inacc points out that I really don't use the gauges when they are needed the most because I am too busy driving. So datalogging is my main objective.
Also, there is a device called WiSnap (Wireless Serial Adapter) and MobiSquirt (iPhone/Android App) that can do digital dash from a MS based ECU.
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12-23-2011, 03:34 PM
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Dont you fellas sleep ??? LOL....
@Inaccurate, I agree with you Data logging is very very important....I do need something which does display gauges and log data....I did read your thread and honestly more than 50% of that was OHT (Over Head Transmission) LOL....
Logging = very very important for street tuning
Real time guages = very very important for dyno tuning
Ok so i will reveal my plans....I plan to switch out the completely Radio/Dash panel for a ipad/Samsung galaxy tab 8.9....with this i will have GPS/Gauges/Internet Radio/etc....I will be switching out the stock amp and ELS module for a RF 5 channel amp....remove HFL and center channel.....will integrate the tablet in the dash.....with light weight seats my SRS module will go....if only i can find out how to make the AC work without the ECU, i will run JnR as standalone
@Fenda rolla/Atlas:
Great app it looks like and very cost effective....Fenda rolla, your like its hardcore fan....will take this to PM and discuss more about the app and how it does and what it does....
@KN_TL: yeah i did see that....its a multi gauge too....so you can see what ever you want....1 gauge can display multiple things
Carputer is a good idea but i wanted something which looks a little more neat....
Samsung tab --> dock --> amp --> speakers/sub
this way i will loose some pounds (weight) and have a nice display in my dash which will have everything i need (music/gauges/etc)
@Inaccurate, I agree with you Data logging is very very important....I do need something which does display gauges and log data....I did read your thread and honestly more than 50% of that was OHT (Over Head Transmission) LOL....
Logging = very very important for street tuning
Real time guages = very very important for dyno tuning
Ok so i will reveal my plans....I plan to switch out the completely Radio/Dash panel for a ipad/Samsung galaxy tab 8.9....with this i will have GPS/Gauges/Internet Radio/etc....I will be switching out the stock amp and ELS module for a RF 5 channel amp....remove HFL and center channel.....will integrate the tablet in the dash.....with light weight seats my SRS module will go....if only i can find out how to make the AC work without the ECU, i will run JnR as standalone
@Fenda rolla/Atlas:
Great app it looks like and very cost effective....Fenda rolla, your like its hardcore fan....will take this to PM and discuss more about the app and how it does and what it does....
@KN_TL: yeah i did see that....its a multi gauge too....so you can see what ever you want....1 gauge can display multiple things
Carputer is a good idea but i wanted something which looks a little more neat....Samsung tab --> dock --> amp --> speakers/sub
this way i will loose some pounds (weight) and have a nice display in my dash which will have everything i need (music/gauges/etc)
12-23-2011, 04:41 PM
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Also how does the Mobiquirt connect to the ECU (MegaSquirt) ? would def need some hardware right ?
12-23-2011, 08:32 PM
#15
Yes, one being the WiSnap. Not sure if there are any other wireless devices.
Last edited by KN_TL; 12-23-2011 at 08:35 PM.
12-23-2011, 09:52 PM
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Thank you so much guys....
I will be researching this....so far:
For looks: Torque
For street tune: DashDyno
Lets see if I can figure couple other things out and will decide
I will be researching this....so far:
For looks: Torque
For street tune: DashDyno
Lets see if I can figure couple other things out and will decide
12-23-2011, 10:09 PM
#17
I know you can use the stock OBD-II data from the ECU for the stock sensors but I would think everything can be done via the Megasquirt. Am I wrong here?
12-23-2011, 10:22 PM
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^^^ i might have said that wrong....
I will be using Megasquirt to tune everything, I meant i can use DashDyno to read the logs and then tune using MS3....
I will be using Megasquirt to tune everything, I meant i can use DashDyno to read the logs and then tune using MS3....
12-23-2011, 10:37 PM
#19
I didn't think there would be any need for other OBD-II based scanners/loggers.
12-23-2011, 10:40 PM
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^^^
I just wanted the gauges and hence went towards the OBDII based scanners (gauges on the screen). I was considering DashDyno since I honestly blindly take everything Inaccurate says into consideration....
I just wanted the gauges and hence went towards the OBDII based scanners (gauges on the screen). I was considering DashDyno since I honestly blindly take everything Inaccurate says into consideration....
12-23-2011, 10:52 PM
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^^^
btw i dont have my ECU yet....so once i get it, i will be playing with it and then getting the gauges/scan tool which i feel will best suit my needs
btw i dont have my ECU yet....so once i get it, i will be playing with it and then getting the gauges/scan tool which i feel will best suit my needs
12-24-2011, 09:12 AM
#25
Burning Brakes
Actually may even get better with ms3 ecu check out this link I think logging data just got a lot simplier ..... http://www.tunerstudio.com/index.php/shadowloggerms
12-24-2011, 03:04 PM
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^^^ Rodney to the rescue.... 
Thats what am thinking....let me get the ECU first and then decide which way I want to go....Thanks for posting that up Rodney....
Thats what am thinking....let me get the ECU first and then decide which way I want to go....Thanks for posting that up Rodney....
12-24-2011, 03:35 PM
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^^^ lol my bad for being dumb
will PM you if i need some help with that....thanks bro....
will PM you if i need some help with that....thanks bro....
12-25-2011, 06:22 PM
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^^^ yeah i was thinking of asking him, if he can tap one in....else I will need a separate unit which should be compatible with the software am wanting to display the gauges
12-25-2011, 10:32 PM
#33
Instructor
Coming from tactrix cable and romraider with my suby, I'm amped to give torque a shot with my evo phone just ordered a Elm327, hope it works with my 2010 accord. Thanks for the suggestion fenda.
Last edited by tommypenguin; 12-25-2011 at 10:37 PM.
12-25-2011, 10:59 PM
#35
Instructor
I bought this one and will post my results using it after I give it a shot...
http://www.ebay.com/itm/ELM327-OBD-I...4#ht_979wt_802
In anticipation I might get a cel with pcds going on I started looking into an obd2 tool I can log with to troubleshoot ensuing cels. Hope it works.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/ELM327-OBD-I...4#ht_979wt_802
In anticipation I might get a cel with pcds going on I started looking into an obd2 tool I can log with to troubleshoot ensuing cels. Hope it works.
12-26-2011, 01:05 AM
#36
The Track Terror
^^^ Excellent choice with Torque there Tommypenguin...you definitely will love it...
and you *shouldn't* get the CEL with the PCDs, since they come with defoulers...I've had mine on for about 1.5 months and over 1,000 miles with no CEL, so I think you'll be just fine!
BTW, just lookin' at your sig, your car seems pretty badass! Good job!
and you *shouldn't* get the CEL with the PCDs, since they come with defoulers...I've had mine on for about 1.5 months and over 1,000 miles with no CEL, so I think you'll be just fine!
BTW, just lookin' at your sig, your car seems pretty badass! Good job!
Last edited by the fenda rolla; 12-26-2011 at 01:07 AM.
12-26-2011, 12:18 PM
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^^^ I agree word for word with Fenda Rollaaaaaahhhhh
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12-26-2011, 01:30 PM
#38
Instructor
^^^ Excellent choice with Torque there Tommypenguin...you definitely will love it...
and you *shouldn't* get the CEL with the PCDs, since they come with defoulers...I've had mine on for about 1.5 months and over 1,000 miles with no CEL, so I think you'll be just fine!
BTW, just lookin' at your sig, your car seems pretty badass! Good job!
and you *shouldn't* get the CEL with the PCDs, since they come with defoulers...I've had mine on for about 1.5 months and over 1,000 miles with no CEL, so I think you'll be just fine!
BTW, just lookin' at your sig, your car seems pretty badass! Good job!
Regardless if I don't it will be interesting to compare engine load and other parameters to view what changed pre pcds and post.
12-26-2011, 01:38 PM
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^^^ i hope your getting em ceramic coated, inside out....i got mine ceramic coated inside out and they seem to flow a lot better....
my butt dyno doesnt lie
my butt dyno doesnt lie
12-27-2011, 11:52 PM
#40
Instructor
They are ceramic coated inside and out, and actually just shipped out today. Hopefully I will have them by this weekend so I can put them on, been waiting for a year for these to finally get here. Can't wait, my elm327 will be here friday so I will get to do some logging pre pcds if it works with my ride. Can't see any reason why it shouldn't work with obd2 being consistent standard in cars that use it.