while I wait for my TCU to return...
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 4,066
Likes: 37
From: Folsom, CA
2005 E55 AMG
install is reverse of removal - about 5 minutes - you guys are right, this was easy peasy...
This isn't a wholly conclusive review - but I put about 20 miles on it around town, so no high-speed anything - but overall here are my impressions:
1. the shift from 1st-2nd is held longer, so it's nice not to have the car 'leap' into the highest gear possible... yes, the OEM setting is to save gas - but MANY times I find myself wanting the lower gear while driving around town just because it gets you moving out faster - and possibly using less fuel in the process to get to your preferred speed since you're using less gas because the gear is multiplied faster - maybe counterintuitive, but the feeling is much better - I'd be happy with the same gas mileage and have this shifting 'feeling'
2. shifts are 'faster' - note, they're not a B&M shift kit slamming/chirping into gear - but the transition between gears is definitely improved and much smoother
3. holding a gear while slowing at lower speeds is great, while coasting to round a street corner, the OEM method would gear up (save gas) but have a flat feeling out of the corner - now that the car is held in the lower gear, it just scoots around the corner without having to add gas to get the power down...
4. tip-in to downshift is MUCH improved! this is how it should be from factory! when you push the gas, most times the goal is to move forward not push a higher gear... I love that Jerry fixed this!
ok - gotta find more errands to run for the wifey so I can report back more
LOL
This isn't a wholly conclusive review - but I put about 20 miles on it around town, so no high-speed anything - but overall here are my impressions:
1. the shift from 1st-2nd is held longer, so it's nice not to have the car 'leap' into the highest gear possible... yes, the OEM setting is to save gas - but MANY times I find myself wanting the lower gear while driving around town just because it gets you moving out faster - and possibly using less fuel in the process to get to your preferred speed since you're using less gas because the gear is multiplied faster - maybe counterintuitive, but the feeling is much better - I'd be happy with the same gas mileage and have this shifting 'feeling'
2. shifts are 'faster' - note, they're not a B&M shift kit slamming/chirping into gear - but the transition between gears is definitely improved and much smoother
3. holding a gear while slowing at lower speeds is great, while coasting to round a street corner, the OEM method would gear up (save gas) but have a flat feeling out of the corner - now that the car is held in the lower gear, it just scoots around the corner without having to add gas to get the power down...
4. tip-in to downshift is MUCH improved! this is how it should be from factory! when you push the gas, most times the goal is to move forward not push a higher gear... I love that Jerry fixed this!
ok - gotta find more errands to run for the wifey so I can report back more
LOL
Last edited by Toadster; Dec 28, 2012 at 07:55 PM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2012
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sl55 amg
i held my expectations pretty high for the tcu tune, the way the trans shifts is the only problem i have with the car. after getting the tcu tune, it is still one of the only problems i have with the car! wish i could just do a dam 6 speed in it!!! with a clutch that is.
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Mercedes
Gotta beware with TCU tunes that change toque limits. I had a TCU tune and the transmission started to destroy itself after a few months (found metal in the fluid, even though the fluid was changed just before TCU tune). The stock torque limits are there for a reason.
Last edited by JoeNobody; May 1, 2022 at 07:35 AM.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 4,066
Likes: 37
From: Folsom, CA
2005 E55 AMG
I've had the TCU tune for about two weeks. Been driving around town only, haven't taken it on the highway or for any parking lot hoonage.
I've noticed everything Toadster said. Also noticed I'm able to get a little more wheel spin before the traction control starts limiting engine torque. Basically a touch more slip while traction control figures everything out. Only downside is that you need to be a bit more precise with your pedal control during launching.
Car shifting patterns feel much better and far more appropriate for brisk driving. That alone is probably worth the tune.
I haven't noticed any changes when the transmission is in 'Comfort' mode. Feels more or less the same as it did before. Smooth, comfortable, and great for putting around town.
I've noticed everything Toadster said. Also noticed I'm able to get a little more wheel spin before the traction control starts limiting engine torque. Basically a touch more slip while traction control figures everything out. Only downside is that you need to be a bit more precise with your pedal control during launching.
Car shifting patterns feel much better and far more appropriate for brisk driving. That alone is probably worth the tune.
I haven't noticed any changes when the transmission is in 'Comfort' mode. Feels more or less the same as it did before. Smooth, comfortable, and great for putting around town.
yes - good points! I have only tried "S" mode so far... definitely improved daily driving experience and the tip-in edge is SO much nicer now...
gotta try the shifter buttons
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Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 4,066
Likes: 37
From: Folsom, CA
2005 E55 AMG
wow Jake you aren't kidding!
I tried the beast out today in "M" and "S" mode with the button shifters - dramatically different in "M" mode! S mode is a little more subdued, maybe just a placebo effect - but the shifts are crisp and when they hit, you know it - AWESOME!
if you guys are on the fence about this, just do it - fantastic mod
I tried the beast out today in "M" and "S" mode with the button shifters - dramatically different in "M" mode! S mode is a little more subdued, maybe just a placebo effect - but the shifts are crisp and when they hit, you know it - AWESOME!
if you guys are on the fence about this, just do it - fantastic mod
