Kawasaki 2013 Benchmark ECM Reflash Test

[Rusty5150]

I will be doing some testing between a stock ECM and a reflashed Benchmark ECM. Benchmark offers 2 programs, 1 for a stock exhaust and 1 for a aftermarket exhaust. I will be using his stock exhaust program.

Last night I pulled the cover of the the top of the dash to access the ECM.

There is actually 2 control modules under the dash. The module inside the velcro bag is for the EPS (power steering). The ECM is on the opposite side of the steering module.

A quick tip to make the ECM removal a little easier, remove the ignition switch and use that hole to access the bolts holding the bottom of the ECM in.

 

[mtoma]

Is this gonna be a seat of the pants test, dyno, or some timed runs?

Will be interesting to see the results.

Thanks for the write up Rusty!




Sent from a pay phone using Tapatalk.

 

[Rusty5150]

This ECM should not affect the Dyno number over stock. I will not be putting the car on a dyno. I will be doing timed runs in H and L gears 4wd and 4wd locked.

 

[megadesertdiesel]

Did kawi change anything in the 2013 T4?

 

[Rusty5150]

I don't think there were any changes from the 12 to the 13 models. I plan on testing 0 to 30, 0 to 50 and 0 to Top Speed in both 2wd and 4wd.

Testing will start tomorrow.

 

[Rusty5150]

Well, I did a few stock ECM runs.

Stock ECM
2wd = 50 to 51 mph.
4wd = 50 mph
4wd locked = 12 to 13 mph

Benchmark ECM
2wd = 61 mph
4wd = 61 mph
4wd locked = 18 to 20 mph.

Tips for ECM removal and install.

Step 1: Use 8mm wrench to remove the top bolt.
Step 2: Use a large crescent wrench and remove the large plastic nut that holds the ignition switch in place. Push the switch into the dash and use that hole to access the lower 8mm bolt.
Step 3: Use a 8mm socket and extension to remove the lower bolt.
Step 4: Gently remove the ECM by sliding it past the Blower Warning Light.
Step 5: Unplug stock ECM and plug in the new Benchmark ECM. Repeat steps in reverse to re-install.

 

[LORENZ]

That's the quickest easiest horse power I've seen in a while.
What's it cost to get a reflash? I'm guessing I would need to take mine off and send it in?

 

[Rusty5150]

The cost is $379. If you don't send yours in there is a core charge of $400 or so. This boils down to $34.45 per mph. I think that is the best bang for the buck.

 

[MAGNUM OFFROAD]

Great write up Rus!

 

[Rusty5150]

I used a APP on my phone called pocket dyno. These results are for the 1/8 mile.

 

[waytay]

Great write up, wow 50 mph from the factory......great write up.

 

[Rusty5150]

Here is a video of the 61mph pass. I could not get the camera very stable (so the video is ruff).


https://vimeo.com/55719271

 

[Spicoli]

Pretty impressive.

 

[JoeyD23]

Nice work Rusty!!!