Frequently Asked Questions About Oztrack

Find answers about Oztrack Performance Tuning & Engines, including
dyno tuning, remote tuning, LS performance packages, engine rebuilding,
supercharger installations, clutch upgrades and Pink Slip inspections.

Oztrack Services

What services does Oztrack provide?

Oztrack provides:

  • Mainline Pro-Hub dyno tuning
  • Remote tuning
  • Performance upgrades and power packages
  • Engine rebuilding with machining carried out on site
  • Supercharger installation
  • Clutch supply and upgrade options
  • Pink Slip safety inspections

See the full range of services on our
services page.

What vehicles does Oztrack tune?

Oztrack tunes a wide range of vehicles, including:

  • LS-powered vehicles
  • Holden Commodore and HSV V6 and V8 models
  • Alloytec VZ through to VF LFX V6 Commodores
  • Toyota diesel vehicles
  • Ford XR6, XR6 Turbo, XR8 and F6 Turbo
  • Ford Mustang
What type of dyno does Oztrack use?

Oztrack uses a Mainline Pro-Hub dyno. The vehicle connects directly to
the dyno hubs rather than running on rollers.

This provides consistent measurement and allows accurate adjustment of
power delivery, air-fuel ratios, ignition timing, drivability and
transmission behaviour.

Power Packages and Tuning

Can Oztrack increase the power of a VT to VF V8 Commodore?

Yes. Oztrack offers tailored performance packages for VT through to VF
V8 Commodores.

Available packages can include:

  • OZ340
  • OZ380
  • OZ500
  • OZ540

The right package depends on the engine, transmission, existing
modifications, fuel, intended use and desired power.

What is custom tuning?

Custom tuning adjusts the engine and transmission calibration to suit
the individual vehicle.

This can improve throttle response, power delivery, drivability,
air-fuel ratios, ignition timing, idle quality and automatic
transmission behaviour.

Does Oztrack offer remote tuning?

Yes. Remote tuning allows a vehicle to be calibrated without visiting
the Oztrack workshop.

The vehicle must be mechanically healthy, use the correct fuel and have
suitable logging equipment. Mechanical problems should be repaired
before tuning begins.

How much power can an LS engine gain from tuning?

Some vehicles can gain up to approximately 30 rwkW from tuning alone.
Results depend on the engine, fuel, existing calibration, condition and
modifications.

An HSV LS3 may gain around 30 rwkW from an over-the-radiator intake and
tune. A complete exhaust system may add approximately another 20 rwkW.
LS1 engines can sometimes gain more.

These figures are examples only. Every vehicle produces different
results.

What improvements can I expect from a tune?

A properly calibrated vehicle may have:

  • Better throttle response
  • Improved drivability
  • More power and torque
  • Smoother power delivery
  • Better automatic transmission behaviour
  • The ability to use higher gears at lower road speeds
  • Improved fuel economy in some driving conditions
Will a fuel economy tune increase full-throttle power?

No. Low-load fuel economy areas and full-throttle power areas are
controlled separately on LS V8 and VZ to VF V6 Commodores.

A fuel economy adjustment does not automatically increase
full-throttle power. Oztrack’s normal tuning already aims for safe and
suitable low-load operation.

Why does Oztrack avoid misleading before-and-after dyno comparisons?

Before-and-after dyno figures can be affected by engine temperature,
intake temperature, tyre conditions, test method and how the runs are
presented.

The after-run often occurs with a warmer engine, which can distort the
comparison. Oztrack focuses on accurate measurement and reliable,
repeatable results rather than chasing a promotional number.

Safe Tuning and Fuel

How does Oztrack keep a tune safe?

Oztrack sets calibrations within suitable limits, checks air-fuel
ratios and monitors for knock.

The goal is reliable and repeatable performance rather than maximum
power at the expense of engine safety.

Can disconnecting the battery erase or change the tune?

No. Disconnecting or replacing the battery does not return the vehicle
to its factory tune.

The calibration remains stored in the ECU unless someone intentionally
reflashes it using suitable tuning software or equipment.

Can a tune change by itself?

No. A tune does not alter itself. It can only be changed by an
intentional ECU reflash.

If a vehicle later becomes lean, starts knocking or loses power,
something on the vehicle has usually changed.

What fuel should I use after tuning?

Always use the fuel grade the vehicle was tuned for.

A vehicle tuned for 98 RON fuel should continue using 98 RON. Do not
switch to 95, 91 or E10 unless the tune has been designed for that
fuel.

Why might a previously tuned vehicle start knocking or running lean?

Common causes include:

  • A weak or rusty fuel pump
  • Dirty or uneven fuel injectors
  • Blocked catalytic converters
  • Increasing spark plug gaps
  • Damaged or perished ignition leads
  • A dirty, damaged or dislodged air filter
  • Using fuel with a lower octane rating than required

The vehicle should be inspected and logged before tune changes are
made.

V6 Commodore Tuning

Can Oztrack tune V6 Commodores?

Yes. Oztrack can tune V6 Commodores from the Alloytec VZ through to the
VF LFX V6.

Available adjustments depend on the ECU, engine, transmission,
modifications and condition of the vehicle.

Troubleshooting

Why does my tuned vehicle feel flat or have low power?

Check the following areas:

  • The intake air temperature sensor is connected and reading correctly
  • The catalytic converters or exhaust are not blocked
  • The air filter is clean and correctly positioned
  • The fuel injectors are clean and flowing evenly
  • The fuel pump maintains the required pressure and flow

Some low-cost OTR housings allow the filter to move, which can restrict
airflow or affect sensor readings.

What causes rhythmic AFR swings or surging at cruise?

Failing oxygen sensors can cause fuel trims to reach their limits and
reset repeatedly. This can create rhythmic air-fuel ratio changes or
surging during steady-speed driving.

The oxygen sensor operation and fuel trims should be checked. Faulty
sensors may need replacement.

What can cause a high or hunting idle?

A faulty throttle position sensor can cause a high or unstable idle,
especially when the engine is hot.

The ECU must see a correct closed-throttle position. If the sensor does
not return to zero, it may need replacement. Some throttle linkages may
also require inspection or repair.

What should I do if the engine pings under load?

Stop using heavy throttle and avoid the engine speed and load range
where the pinging occurs.

Confirm that the vehicle has the correct fuel. Pinging commonly occurs
when a car tuned for 98 RON is filled with 91 RON, 95 RON or unsuitable
E10 fuel.

Other possible causes include blocked catalytic converters, dirty
injectors, low fuel pressure or another mechanical problem.

Why does a cammed LS engine need more idle airflow?

A larger camshaft reduces idle vacuum and changes the engine’s airflow
requirements.

The tune must be adjusted to provide suitable idle airflow, spark
control and fuelling. Some combinations may require a small increase in
the throttle blade bypass hole.

The hole should be enlarged carefully because making it too large can
create further idle problems and require throttle body repair.

Why is spark table switching important on a cammed LS engine?

The ECU may use different spark tables for coast and normal driving.
Throttle position must be reported correctly so the ECU selects the
correct table.

Spark table switching should be checked after low-load air-fuel ratios
and throttle position settings are correct.

Engine and Performance Upgrades

Does Oztrack rebuild engines?

Yes. Oztrack rebuilds engines and carries out machining on site.

Engine rebuilding can include disassembly, cleaning, measuring,
inspection, machining and replacement of worn or damaged components.
The required work depends on the condition and intended use of the
engine.

Does Oztrack install superchargers?

Yes. Oztrack installs supercharger systems on suitable vehicles.

A supercharger compresses the incoming air to increase engine power.
Supporting fuel system, cooling, exhaust, engine and transmission
upgrades may be required.

Does Oztrack supply or install upgraded clutches?

Oztrack can supply Mantic clutch upgrades for Ford, Holden and other
suitable vehicles. Clutches can also be shipped.

Clutch installation is normally carried out when Oztrack is also
installing the engine.

What does an LS cam upgrade involve?

A cam upgrade changes valve timing, lift and duration to increase power
and torque.

A complete package may include the camshaft, valve springs, pushrods,
lifters, timing components, gaskets, installation and custom tuning.
The required components depend on the engine and intended use.

Inspections and Contact

Does Oztrack provide Pink Slip inspections?

Yes. Oztrack provides Pink Slip safety inspections for eligible
vehicles.

The inspection checks required roadworthiness and safety items for NSW
registration renewal.

How can I contact Oztrack?

Call Oztrack on
0483 930 450
or visit the
Oztrack services page.

When making an enquiry, include the vehicle model, engine,
transmission, modifications, fuel and the result you want.

Do You Have a Question?

Contact Oztrack for help with tuning, engine upgrades, diagnostics,
rebuilds and performance packages.


Call 0483 930 450

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