Frequently Asked Questions – Performance & Tuning
Author: Lovepreet Singh
Got questions? We’ve got answers.
What is dyno tuning and is it worth it?
Dyno tuning adjusts your ECU on a dyno to improve power, torque, and throttle response.
At Independent Motorsports, we fine-tune your car or 4x4 using real-time data while it runs on our dyno. Whether you're chasing more power from an LS engine, smoother towing on a Ranger, or better throttle mapping on a Hilux, a dyno tune delivers noticeable results safely. Explore our dyno tuning services.
How much power can I gain from an ECU remap?
Most vehicles see a 20–40% torque increase on turbo-diesels, and 10–30% more power on petrol engines.
The actual gains depend on your platform — a D-Max or BT-50 often gains over 100Nm of torque, while performance builds like LS1, LS3 or XR6 Turbo benefit from improved air-fuel ratios and ignition timing. Every remap is custom done in-house. Learn more about ECU remapping.
What are the best spark plugs for turbocharged engines?
Brisk Silver Racing spark plugs are ideal for high-boost engines due to their silver-core conductivity and thermal control.
We recommend them for Barra, LS, and HEMI platforms running turbo or supercharger setups. They improve ignition stability under pressure and help reduce misfires — especially on tuned builds. We keep a wide range in stock, ready to ship. Shop Brisk Racing spark plugs.
Is it safe to tune a high mileage engine?
Yes — as long as your engine is mechanically sound, tuning can still deliver strong and safe gains.
We run full diagnostics before tuning any high-mileage vehicle. Many of our customers safely tune engines with over 150,000km. Whether it’s a diesel ute or LS-powered daily, a proper tune often improves engine health and drivability. Book a diagnostic dyno session.
What is MDS delete and why do people do it?
MDS delete disables cylinder deactivation on HEMI engines, allowing performance upgrades and full V8 response.
It’s popular among Ram, Jeep and Chrysler owners installing camshafts or aiming for better throttle feel. Removing MDS also reduces the risk of lifter failure and allows tuning without compromise. View our MDS delete options.
How do I know which camshaft is right for my LS engine?
Cam choice depends on how you use the car — daily street, track, or full-blown power build.
We stock mild street cams, lumpy idle grinds, and drag-strip profiles from Crow, BTR, VCM, and Cam Motion. We’ll help match the cam to your goals and upgrade your springs, lifters and timing gear where needed. Browse LS camshaft options.
Can a catch can improve engine performance or is it a gimmick?
Catch cans stop oil vapour from contaminating your intake, keeping engines cleaner over time.
This is especially important on turbocharged and direct injection engines like Rangers and BT-50s. By preventing carbon buildup, catch cans maintain airflow, boost consistency, and reduce long-term wear. Check out our catch can kits.
Are aftermarket mandrel bends better than OEM exhaust pipes?
Yes — mandrel bends provide smoother exhaust flow and eliminate restriction.
Factory exhausts often use crush bends that pinch the pipe diameter. Our mandrel bends in stainless and mild steel give better performance, cleaner welds, and proper fitment for turbo and exhaust fab. See our full range of mandrel bends.
Will tuning improve my fuel consumption?
A proper dyno tune can reduce fuel consumption by up to 15% — especially in turbo-diesel 4x4s.
More torque down low means less throttle needed to cruise, tow, or overtake. On Hilux, D-Max, BT-50 and Ranger, we routinely see better economy under normal driving. Book your 4x4 tuning session.
Does Independent Motorsports offer tuning for all 4x4 makes?
Yes — we tune Ford, Mazda, Isuzu, Toyota and more with custom dyno maps built in-house.
We’ve tuned thousands of Rangers, Hiluxes, LandCruisers, D-Maxes, BT-50s and Navaras. Our files are tested on the dyno, not downloaded off the internet. Safe, reliable gains backed by real data. Check supported vehicles here.
