The Ultimate Ford 2.7 EcoBoost Tuning Instructions. We frequently write about Ford EcoBoost tuning and modifications. The 2.7 and 3.5 EcoBoost engines are fantastic and provide a lot of performance right out of the box. They do, however, leave a lot of untapped potential on the table. A 2.7 EcoBoost tune is most likely the best single upgrade for those looking for even more performance. This article discusses 2.7L V6 EcoBoost tunes and tuning, as well as cost, power gains, and other topics.
2.7 EcoBoost Tuning Fundamentals
Tuning is one of the most common performance enhancements for many engines. This is especially true for twin turbo engines like the Ford 2.7 EcoBoost. A simple tune can unleash a significant amount of extra power while also maximizing power gains from other mods.
The goal of tuning is to change engine parameters in the powertrain control module (PCM). A 2.7 EcoBoost tune can significantly alter ignition timing, boost, fuel delivery, and other parameters. By simply changing a few of these parameters, you can unleash a massive amount of power.
Boost pressure is a major reason turbo engines have so much tuning potential. Automakers use more turbo than is required for the factory power output. This improves things like dependability, efficiency, and fuel economy. It also means that it’s simple to increase boost, change engine parameters, and get massive horsepower gains with a simple tune.
2.7 Ford Piggyback vs Flash Tunes
Piggyback vs. flash tunes could be a lengthy discussion worthy of its own article. In the interest of time, we’ll avoid getting too technical. Flash tunes rewrite the data on the PCM (essentially the cars computer). They provide extremely precise control over all engine parameters, allowing each tuner to fine-tune things to their liking. To actually load the new tune into the PCM, a tuner device is required.
There are also piggyback tunes. Burger Motorsports’ JB4 tune is an excellent example. A piggyback 2.7 EcoBoost tune makes no changes to the PCM’s data or programming. Instead, they’re a simple plug-and-play installation that connects to either the PCM or a few different sensors.
Both songs, in the end, achieve the same goal, but in different ways. Piggyback tunes modify signals before they are sent back to the PCM. For example, it could alter the boost signal to instruct the turbos to run at higher boost levels while the PCM continues to see stock boost levels. Modern automobile computers are extremely fast and capable. It will quickly realize that more fuel flow is required due to the increased boost (even though it is unaware of the increased boost).
There is no perfect answer, and it is dependent on your specific needs and goals. The 2.7 EcoBoost JB4 tune is fantastic. For over 8 years, we’ve used their piggyback tunes on many of our BMWs with great success. Some people despise piggyback tunes and prefer flash tuning.
Tuner vs. 2.7L V6 Tune
Tune vs tuner is a simple distinction, so we’ll move on. If you’re new to the tuning world, it can be a little perplexing at times. The terms tune and tuner are frequently used interchangeably. Here’s a quick recap:
- Tune – the program or file that rewrites the PCM data.
- Tuner – A tuner device is usually referred to by this term. It could also refer to a person or business that tunes engines.
Tunes are simply files or software that have been uploaded to the vehicle’s computer. A tuner is typically used to refer to a tuner device. This is what actually allows you to load the tune to the PCM.
Advantages of Tuning Your F-150 2.7
One of the most obvious advantages of tuning the 2.7L twin turbo V6 is increased horsepower. However, that is not the only advantage of a 2.7 EcoBoost tune. Among the advantages are:
- 40-70+whp
- 60-100+wtq
- Enhanced overall powerband
- Maximize the benefits of other mods.
- Improved fuel economy
- Improved throttle response
With no other modifications, 2.7 EcoBoost tunes can produce 40-70whp and 60-100wtq. That’s a lot of performance gain from a single modification. It’s also not just about the increased peak power and torque. They’re available across a wide range of RPMs, and you’ll probably notice improved throttle response as well.
Tunes also allow for greater power gains from aftermarket modifications such as downpipes, intakes, intercoolers, and more. A 2.7 EcoBoost tune is also required for larger upgrades such as turbos, E85 fueling, and so on. The point is, when it comes to modding and upgrading your F-150, tunes are the best place to start.
We mentioned above that better fuel economy is possible with the right tuning. However, if you tune for power and then use that power, you will most likely lose some fuel efficiency.
Risks of Twin Turbo V6 Tuning
Increasing boost and horsepower does, of course, carry some inherent risks. More power and boost will put additional strain on the engine and turbo, assuming everything else remains constant. Manufacturers include headroom for a reason, and one of those reasons is to improve reliability and efficiency.
Anyway, the Ford 2.7 EcoBoost engine is a powerful engine right out of the box. A proper, high-quality tune is unlikely to jeopardize reliability or longevity. However, the general rule remains. More power, boost, and heat will increase stress and increase the likelihood of things going wrong.
If you want to run more aggressive tunes, you should always have the proper supporting mods. Downpipes, for example, can help reduce heat and pressures, while FMICs aid in cooling.
Ford 2.7 EcoBoost Tuners That Work
Now that we’ve covered the fundamentals, benefits, and risks, let’s look at some of the best tuners for the 2.7 EcoBoost. However, we must add a few quick notes before proceeding. This is far from an exhaustive list of all the fantastic tunes for the 2.7L twin turbo F-150. There are numerous great tunes and tuners available, and one is not superior to another for everyone.
Some of it is simply a matter of personal preference, ease of installation, and so on. That being said, we’ve compiled a list of tunes that we believe offer an excellent balance of price, quality, and performance. Whatever path you take, there are a few key factors to consider when selecting the best 2.7 EcoBoost tunes.
Always work with an experienced and reputable tuning company or individual. Tuning can be dangerous if not done correctly. Don’t put your 2.7L V6 in the hands of Joe from down the street just because he tuned a couple of his own cars in the 1990s.
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1) Livernois 2.7 V6 EcoBoost Tuner
Livernois Motorsports has a fantastic tuner for the Ford F-150 2.7 EcoBoost. They are the only custom tuning company that develops all of its own hardware, software, and calibrations. That means Livernois can provide a wide range of distinct, effective tuning options for the 2.7L EcoBoost.
The Livernois MyCalibrator Touch device makes data logging and monitoring simple. It comes with Livernois custom tuning and can provide gains of 60+ horsepower and 60+ torque on otherwise stock 2.7 EcoBoost engines. Transmission tuning, tow compatible tunes, a revised top speed limiter, and a slew of other changes are also included.
Finally, the Livernois 2.7 EcoBoost tune is a great choice. It may appear to be a little pricey at $599, but it has a ton of great features. Again, Livernois develops everything tuner-related in-house, so there are a plethora of fantastic solutions. These factors combine to make the Livernois tuner an excellent value.
Price: $599.00
2) Tuned F-150 2.7 EcoBoost JB4
Since we’ve been running the JB4 piggyback tune for over 8 years, it’s fair to say we’re a little biased. They first appeared in 2007, around the time of the popular BMW N54 twin turbo engine. It’s largely the engine that powered both the JB4 and our own blogs. But there’s a reason why the JB4 became so popular in the turbo BMW world.
The 2.7L EcoBoost JB4 is simple to install and comes with seven different maps (tunes) that you can switch between on the fly. There is no need to re-flash the entire PCM as in the case of a flash tune. There are even E85 compatible maps available, as well as the ability to set boost limits by gear, data-log, read and delete codes, and much more. In essence, the JB4 provides everything in a single simple and easy-to-install package.
One significant advantage of piggyback tunes is that they are difficult to detect when uninstalled during dealer visits. The dealer will always be able to tell if you flash the PCM. Anyway, we don’t have time to go over all of the fantastic features and advantages of the JB4 2.7 EcoBoost tune. It’s an excellent choice if all you want is a tune and a few simple bolt-ons. Those looking for 500+whp on larger turbos, 100% E85, and other such features should probably stick to traditional flash tunes.
Price: $529.00
3) Ford 2.7 EcoBoost SCT X4 Performance Tuners
When it comes to tuner devices in the American car world, SCT is a popular choice. The device costs $399 and comes with a variety of base flash maps. Base maps are a good place to start before potentially moving on to a custom tune (which we’ll cover in a few sections).
In any case, the SCT 2.7 EcoBoost X4 tuner is a good option. A backlit display makes data logging and viewing real-time data simple. It can also store up to ten custom tune files. You can also change the speed limiter, rev limiter, idle, and other settings with the 2.7 twin turbo tuner. It’s a popular tuning device at a reasonable price, so SCT X4 tunes are difficult to go wrong with.
Price: $399.00
4) Custom 2.7L Twin Turbo Tuning
Now it’s time to talk more broadly about custom tuning options for the Ford 2.7 EcoBoost. Because the JB4 piggyback is not a flash tuner, this does not apply. However, you can get some custom tuning work done with the SCT or Livernois tunes. To begin, you’ll need the tuner device. If you want to get the most out of a flash tune, consider custom tuning as the final piece of the puzzle.
