If you havent had this performed we would recommend doing so to prevent low oil levels. Your Constructive comments on this article, I really want to improve this article with your help and suggestions. The V6 is a much bigger package, but its also shorter than the I4, allowing it to sit further back in the chassis. Brake Upgrades - Improve your LaCrosse's stopping power should be high on your agenda. Racer-X- Registered Magoo2012 Cadillac CTS Luxury, Opulent Blue, plus many more, see signature. I do not charge you to access this website and it saves most TorqueCars readers $100's each year - but we are NON PROFIT and not even covering our costs. When the Gen III HFV6 was introduced in 2010 (with the LF1), it seemed twin-turbocharging was an eventuality based on some design decisions that were made (particularly the move to an integrated exhaust manifold in the cylinder head). The next day he went out and spanked all the cars during the Redline Time Attack at Cal Speedway, taking top time. The U.S. SUV craze is one that wreaked peak sales figures in the 1990s and mid-2000s and hasnt really declined since then. Welcome to GM Motorsport HOLDEN VF V6 LFX NOTE: The only V6 Holdens we can tune are cars with the LFX engine - Check on the build plate under your bonnet for Engine = LFX - 9th Month 2011 Onwards STAGE 1 - 230kw Full Custom Dyno Tune Dyno Print Out Car required for 8 hours RRP $1,350- Package Price $1,100- inc gst Upgrade Options K&N Filter +$90.00 While the low engine oil light may still appear prior to this, it is very common for drivers to find themselves low on oil in between oil changes. Headers are not an option on the LFX and I do know Tracy is or has been working on the TB which I've been hearing is coming soon. Hes an experienced, hands-on automotive enthusiast who delivers in-depth, well-researched content. Hi, just wondering if anybody on here has tuned/ performance modded their 14+ impalas and if so what did you do? The timing chain cover, also commonly referred to as the front cover protects and lubricates the timing chain. It isn't exactly a free mod, but for $5, it's pretty close. In a Camaro they put out 323hp using SAE standard testing, and in real-world testing weve seen close to 300whp on pump gas and a simple tune. Redline 7,200rpm. The internal pressure naturally causes the internal components of the water pump and the gasket and seals to wear down over time. For 2012, GM has replaced the LLT V-6 with the LFX. That is going to be absolutely amazing to drive! The shape and flow rate of the Intake manifolds can make a noticeable effect on to fuel mixing and power on the LaCrosse. The 2012 LFX models are going to be less reliable than 2013+ models as it suffered from the old timing chain issues. For 2012, GM has replaced the LLT V-6 with the LFX. Wiring it up is as easy purchasing a new factory pigtail (PN 12102620), plugging it into the new IAT sensor, and then splicing it into the tan and blue colored wires that came off of the stock IAT/MAP sensor. Forcing more air and fuel into each cylinder is the aim to any tuning project. When the engine is low on oil, the tensioner does not receive enough oil pressure to keep enough tension in the chain, causing it to become loose. I've driving mostly in Houston miles but, Big difference! A failed gasket will not only leak oil but will also leak air and engine pressure which can result in various performance related issues. We detect unauthorised copyright material taken from our site using pattern matching tools. I run anywhere from 4-10 PSI boost, depending on the boost controller setting. Diesel Remaps Unfortunately, the engine oil consumption is considered normal in these engines. The 2.2L Ecotec was predominantly manufactured under, Read More 4 Common GM 2.2 Ecotec Engine ProblemsContinue, The Volvo B18 engine will go down as one of the most legendary motors of all time. Copyright Overkill Motorsport 2007-2015, Welcome to Overkill SuperCharger Systems by Overkill Motorsport. I change the oil once a year just to have new oil in it. Please use our forums if you wish to ask a tuning question, and please note we do not sell parts or services, we are just an online magazine. Rated at 304hp, the 3.6L six-banger in the 2010 and 2011 fifth-gen squashes the LT1 and TPI V-8s of yore despite having just 2/3rds the displacement, and virtually matches the output of the '98 Camaro's vaunted LS1. Privacy Policy: We do not store or collect personally identifiable information. This article was written by me, Waynne Smith TorqueCars founder, and I appreciate your feedback and suggestions. Upload or insert images from URL. Increasing the LaCrosse valve size, getting LaCrosse port enlargement and head flowing will also improve bhp, and importantly will make space for a greater bhp increase on other upgrades. : Add a LFX Sub Forum or Keep The Combined LLT/LFX Forum? Other engines are much easier. You will also have full access to JavaScript is disabled. https://www.trifectaperformance.com/forums/page/index.html, LFX Intake Spacer | JacFab LLC : Custom Design & Camaro Accessories. It will usually give around 30% more power on turbocharged vehicles and you can expect to see around 15% on NA (naturally aspirated) engines, but your results may differs on the tuning parts you've carried out and the condition of your engine. I picked up an Overkill tune and throttle body just last month. . would indeed to be a force to be reckoned with. Outside of problems that can be caused by running low on oil, the LFX doesnt have any catastrophic engine problems and has proven to be reliable. Support for your other aftermarket modifications including our intake system, aftermarket exhaust systems, our 80mm throttle body, JacFab intake spacer and more. (All car owners of all ages and from all countries are welcome). ), Alloy wheels. Better yet, the V-6 Camaro crowd isn't a bunch of dyno racing weanies. While the ECU hardware has changed over the years (gradually increasing in EEPROM flash size, increasing CPU speed, and increasing the number of and types of inputs and outputs), it is interesting to note that the underlying software which controls the ECU itself has its roots all the way back to the original E39 introduced in 2010. The 3.6-liter LF3 shares the integrated exhaust manifolds, VVT, aluminum block, "high-tumble" intake port design, and other designs that are utilized in the naturally-aspirated HF engines (i.e. Additionally, gasket or seal leaks cause pressure drops within the system again requiring the water pump to have to overwork itself. For cars with oil life monitoring, GM did recall and recalibrate the OLM monitoring systems to prevent the extremely length oil change services and reduce the likelihood of running low on oil. Our bet is that the LFX is the best compromise between weight, horsepower, ease of assembly and price. or perhaps even more exciting An 8 cylinder engine utilizing the design and strengths of the HFV6? The problem is people not checking oil levels and continuing to drive on low oil levels. Installing new OEM rubber bushings may dramatically improve the performance of your car. With that being said, timing chains are maintenance items and can still fail over time. Other website you can browse is juicedmotorsport. There were also a number of small changes that were made to the frame, and the LFX engine was the catalyst for the changes. Id love to see it with a Wankel . Is this really the case? Your email address will not be published. Fast road camshafts commonly boost the performance across the rpm range, you might lose a little low-end bhp but the higher rpm power will be higher. Overkill LFX tuning is a performance recalibration of the engine and transmission computers. If you want to know more, or just get some friendly advice on Tuning your LaCrosse engine please join us in our friendly forum where you can discuss LaCrosse tuning options in more detail with our LaCrosse owners. The tensioner is hydraulically-actuated meaning it uses oil pressure to function. A sports catalyst pretty much removes this restriction, thanks to its larger size and surface area, and will effectively raise the performance to levels you would expect without having a catalyst installed. be warned last i knew overkill response times were slow.i mean very slow. trifecta is a canned tune you cannot alter at all. The original tune for about 9 months and a stock Touring version since. The good news is that the heavy lifting is doneyou can order you Naked Cat or full-body Catfish now for end of summer delivery, and it will have the needed frame changes for the swap. I removed the original LLT engine and installed a 2014 LFX engine/transmission due to a much better and updated assembly with the Delphi ECU for easier tuning. Since its my grocery getter it rarely goes over 50mph. Love it and very happy with the tune. You should ideally match your power band to your typical driving style so for a car driven daily stick with a shorter duration LaCrosse camshaft. first you pay him, then he sends the controller with instructions on how to upload your stock files to him (i think i emailed them to him compressed perhaps, it's in the instructions). The patented cooling system design was completely redesigned to allow for so-called targeted cooling. On top, the cylinder head is redesigned for higher airflow and power levels, using intake and exhaust valves that are 6% larger each in the LGX than in the LFX. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Aside from needing to support ever-more complex engines, newer ECU technology was required to communicate with other vehicle ECUs which were increasing in both complexity and speed of communications (particularly with the adoption of 8 speed automatic transmissions). We suggest that you fit motorsport suspension and lower the car by 25mm - 44 mm. Although it displaces just 217 cubic inches, it makes up for its small size with a heavy breathing induction package that enables it to rev freely to 7,000 rpm. Engine: GM LFX all-aluminum V6, 3.6 liter, Variable Valve Timing, Timing Chain (not belt), Forged crank shaft, Sintered metal con-rods, Available in 2012-2015 Camaro, Buick LaCrosse, Cadillac CTS/SRX, Chevy Caprice, Impala. Typical stage 1 mods often include: Lighter flywheel, Panel air filter, Remap, Sports exhaust, Suspension upgrade (drop 27mm - 35 mm. Typicalstage 3 modsoften include:Adding or upgradingforced induction(turbo/supercharger),Internal engine upgrades(pistons/head/valves),Sports gearbox,Engine balancing, Competition cam. I bought a 2015 Camaro brand new. This engine and drivetrain is complete overkill when installed in a lightweight Catfish, which means years of track driving fun without stressing about any of the running gear. From basic bolt-ons to free mods to power adders to computer tuning to suspension upgrades, we'll cover it all. Best mods for your LaCrosse Brake Upgrades - Improve your LaCrosse's stopping power should be high on your agenda. The LFX engines also run automatically on E85 (thats the X designation in LFX), and weve already seen horspower figures in the low 300s, again with a stock engine and a light tune. While building on the success of the Gen III HFV6, and sharing many similar design patterns, GM claims the GenIV HFV6 is a clean sheet redesign of the HFV6 family emphasizing some of the following goals: All High Feature V6 engines are 60 degree angled 6 cylinder engines arranged in a V formation. This system is a bolt on installation with no permanent modifications to your vehicle and 100% reversible. The answer? Please watch this video and subscribe to my YouTube channel. Chipping cars and get all the new deets right in your inbox, Leaders in automotive prformancee and tuning guides, Please enable JavaScript in your browser to submit the form, The 5 Most Common Mercedes M157 AMG Engine Problems, Choosing the Best Steering Wheel: A Guide to Help You Choose, The 5 Most Common Ford 351 Cleveland Engine Problems. 's at the dragstrip, knock down 30 mpg, and cost almost $10,000 less than their LS3-powered brethren. BECAUSE, if I have my numbers right, the max torque input is 280 ft lbs, and the horsepower is 315. Excess oil consumption resulting in low oil levels are a common cause of timing chain failure as mentioned above. Remapping ECU Just wondering if anyone has had any transmission related issues after increasing the power output of the LFX engine. i keep the controller in my car and change on the fly as desired. Do not go with the widest exhaust you can buy you'll reduce the exhaust flow rate - the best for power gains are usually between 1.5 to 2.5 inches. Our goal is to create the most powerful game engine in the industry and to give creators all across the globe the tools to harness this power to create world-class gaming experiences, no matter their budget or team size. Its quite possible that these Catfish may end up without any Mazda parts at all. You can scan with our handheld while driving and send that data for review and tune updates, to get a tune that's more customized for your vehicle. No leaks, squeeks, or hard starting. Naturally aspirated V-6s have run as quick as mid-13-second e.t. Coilovers and Bushings are the usual go to mods. When this happens, the timing chains arent receiving enough lubrication and the temperature of the chains metal increases from the increased friction. With some bolt-on induction and exhaust mods, those numbers increase by 40-50 hp. Since the IAT sensor on the LLT is integrated into the MAP sensor, this mod involves buying a second IAT sensor from a fourth-gen LS1 Camaro (PN 12160244), and mounting it in the stock air box or in an aftermarket air filter. When oil runs low on these engines, the cam phasers are the first component to be deprived of oil. If you own or are planning on owning an LFX just be aware of the oil consumption issues and make sure you check your oil levels frequently to make sure they dont get too low. . That can include everything from your shift knob, seats, gauges, and steering wheel. Longer valve durations can alter the torque band and on most engines the exhaust and intake durations do not need to match, although most cams and tuners use matched pairs there are some advantages to extending the intake or exhaust durations. Fortunately, there are warning signs of a failing water pump and you can catch it before the pump completely fails and overheats the engine. I finally bought this caned tune from Trifecta 1 month ago. GM does have an oil supply kit that will keep the cam phasers and timing chain adequately lubricated, but it requires about 15 hours of labor to install. Is there an LG3 and LG4 on the horizon, to replace the LF3 and LF4? The B18 Volvo has the distinction of being the highest mileage motor in world history, with Irv Gordons 3+, Common Mercedes M157 Engine Problems The Mercedes M157 engine is a 5.5L twin-turbo V8 first released in 2011 AMG models. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. The excess oil consumption is less of the problem however. This tuner is what it claims to be, love it! Our West Coast build will be a complete Catfish body, and will have a heavy emphasis on track driving. Not only do these tweaks boost hp to 323, but the LFX is also 20 pounds lighter. The newest ECU family additions include the E81 (not shown) and E82 (right), which are now the standard ECUs driving the Gen IV HFV6 engines. and I know that it will be a little bit longer until there are a lot of modifications for the LFX engine. Seems from what I've heard the Black ICE-olater would probably have no affect being that the IM is already plastic on the LFX motor vs metal on the LLT. Just went down the engine performance mod rabbit hole recently on my 2013 LFX and here's my $.02 I first installed the JacFab intake spacer, Laminator FX intake mod, and RX Performance ported throttle body. How did this turn out? Only show this user. You are able to update your game within few clicks. Powered by Invision Community, I've had this vehicle for over 5 years and have put 97,000 miles on it. The LLT and LFX engines both had a high pressure fuel pump that was mounted on the end of the cylinder head and driven by the exhaust camshaft. 3.6-liter direct-injection VVT V6 engine (LGX 310hp / 282 lb-ft), with stop-start and cylinder deactivation. It takes just a moment to join our fantastic community. These are mods that can literally be bolted on and work. directional tread pattern tires work well on LaCrosse, and make a big difference over budget tires. Lower mass and a more ideally balanced chassis is just icing on the cake. "All you need to know about performance parts and tuning the Buick LaCrosse engine!". To give you an idea as to some of the items currently available. Learn how your comment data is processed. We would recommend you to be generous with your flow rate on the injectors. The upgrades dramatically increase horsepower and torque, making for an exceptionally quicker and . If you find small amounts of coolant leaks around the engine then the water pump is likely on its way out, but not completely gone yet. The third generation LaCrosse used the same E2XX platform as the 2016present Chevrolet Impala. Most intake manifolds are ripe for an upgrade, although a few makers provide reasonably well designed intake manifolds. The most exciting future prospect is what is the Gen IV 3.6L twin turbo engine going to make for power. I might even put non performance modifications I know its not in the right . Thanks. The tensioner is responsible for keeping the proper amount of tension in the chain so that it does not become loose and jump gears. Great job!! I would like to see what I can start doing on this. "You need to weld on two extra cylinders" is a common yet embarrassingly unoriginal quip, and "you can never make a V-6 go fast" tops the list as the granddaddy of all ignorant remarks. Clear editor. Required fields are marked *. Your link has been automatically embedded. "Some people think that relocating the IAT sensor is a waste of time, but it helps a lot if you live in a hot climate," Chris explains. Made the little Trax a lot more fun to drive. You should look to replace your exhaust if the existing exhaust is actually causing a flow problem. Track day insurance cover Air Induction and Sports Exhausts - Please note that on their own these mods won't ADD POWER in most cases, but they can help enhance power after other mods by removing the restriction. A dealership is probably going to quote you near $1,000 for a water pump replacement on the LFX. GM calls this Active Fuel Management (AFM). Averaged about 1-2 mpg on economy mode on long distances. You are using an out of date browser. My 2019 Impalas LFX has 40k miles on it. For example, the LFX engine is set back in the frame for the best mass centralization possible, which will show up at the track. Did you give any consideration to the Ford Ecoboost 2.3 engine. Please drive sensibly we do not endorse reckless driving. As ever tightening economy and emissions standards are phased in, automakers are busy updating their powertrains to meet the new standards. GMs LFX engine was released in model year 2012 as a replacement to the LLT engine. Surprise them right now and increase your score right now. (Sometimes flashing the ECU is not an option, so an aftermarket ECU is the route to take, and many of these will outperform factory ECU's but make sure it has knock protection and that you get it setup properly.) Our advertising partners also use cookies. Also, efficiency improvements in the cooling system allow GM to use a coolant pump that uses 50% less power to turn, leading to improved economy. 20% of 335hp is 70hp. some people have said trifecta is seen by the shops although some say it cannot be seen by the shops (if a shop sees the computer tune was altered they may void your warranty). Tuning the Buick LaCrosse and best LaCrosse performance parts. There is no gasket on the LLT , LFX timing cover. When a transition from AFM is occurring, the exhaust valve is first allowed to open, to expel the previously trapped combustion charge, then the intake valve is enabled to begin normal operation on the next cycle. A frequent misconception is that the best setup would be a non-adjustable suspension system that lowers the vehicle by 50mm purchased from a franchised component shop. Looking into some upgrades for my own car, so if you could link any upgrades it would be appreciated. Be sure to keep up with our latest YouTube content and subscribe. A tune and bolt-on push the M157 engine to even more impressive numbers. Putting slight negative camber on the wheels and a few degrees of toe (in for better stability or out to improve cornering), will greatly benefit your LaCrosse in handling and cornering. While they are known to fail as early as 30,000 miles on the affected 2007-2012 models, they should last closer to 150,000 miles on later model years without these issues. Typical stage 2 mods often include: fuel pump upgrades, Fast road cam, high flow fuel injector, Ported and polished head, Power/Sport clutch. The rule of thumb is to add 20% to the flow rate when specifying an injector, which takes into account injector deterioration and affords a bit of spare capacity should the engine need more fuel.