Vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions are normally fitted with a TCU (Transmission Control Unit). This control unit manages all aspects of the transmission functionality i.e. gear shift and torque limitations. The TCU works together with the engines ECU by sending and receiving real time data across the vehicles network system, so when tuning the engines ECU for more performance it is recommended to have the TCU parameters changed at the same time. This will then ensure both control units continue to work in harmony and fully optimize the performance and drivability of the vehicle.
The number of the parameters that can be changed is dependent on the application, however here are some of the key benefits you will gain:
- Shift Speed – Increasing the speed in which the gearbox changes gear.
- Torque Limiters – Increasing the torque limiters ensures the transmission cannot limit the performance of the engine.
- Hydraulic Pressure – Increasing the hydraulic pressure can increase clutch clamping pressure to prevent clutch slip on highly tuned vehicle.
- Shift points – Changing the RPM limiter of the engine is often not possible without modifying the TCU software.
Some TCU’s have a higher level of manipulation available and advanced options like the following can be activated: Launch Control, Full manual Mode and Kick down delete.
