can Apexi Power FC for a red top work on blacktop

[Seraphim38]

can an Apexi Power FC w/ Commander - REDTOP L- JETRO be adapted easily to work on a non-VVT blacktop SR20DET?

[chiboy002]

can an Apexi Power FC w/ Commander - REDTOP L- JETRO be adapted easily to work on a non-VVT blacktop SR20DET?
im assuming you wanna buy the one in the market right now, ask the seller or call apexi

[s14freak93901]

can an Apexi Power FC w/ Commander - REDTOP L- JETRO be adapted easily to work on a non-VVT blacktop SR20DET?

you talking about a black top S13 SR? im not sure if it will work. i've always heard the S13 red and blacktop use different ecu's but what i've scene you can use on black or red as long as its an S13.

[Seraphim38]

using google to search I found this old thread, which claims that the backtop S13 94-96 Apexi Power FC can be used for a redtop if pins are switched out or the wiring harness is repatched.

http://zilvia.net/f/tech-talk/232507-blacktop-power-fc-vs-redtop-power-fc.html

I have searched for a used Power FC for a blacktop and can't find one in the country currently for sale as a complete package, and $1300+ for a new unit seems a bit much. There are controllers on eBay and I have read that buying them without controllers can be problematic (and I have no interest in buying parts that could be from some stolen car where the owner didn't leave the hand held controller in the car).

[bardabe]

I have one for sale right now almost brand new with controller and still have box, for 900$ its for a red top S13 though.

[Seraphim38]

It appears that there are several up for sale for redtops, but none for a blacktop.

[RACETUNE]

can an Apexi Power FC w/ Commander - REDTOP L- JETRO be adapted easily to work on a non-VVT blacktop SR20DET?

Yes, it can be adapted very easily. I do it all the time. And I am an Apexi Power Excel dealer. If you or anyone out there that has Apexi electronics or Tuning issues I would be happy to help anyone one.

-Frank Siharath

[TrustS13]

How does it make a difference? Just depend on what ECU type you have? For example - the motor harness that you buy will work for a s13 redtop or blacktop (non type-x) and the ECU's for the blacktop and redtop will work back to back , correct? (non type-x ecu). For example I started with a blacktop swap but put in a redtop longblock and it works fine. Is the only difference the ECUs?

[RACETUNE]

How does it make a difference? Just depend on what ECU type you have? For example - the motor harness that you buy will work for a s13 redtop or blacktop (non type-x) and the ECU's for the blacktop and redtop will work back to back , correct? (non type-x ecu). For example I started with a blacktop swap but put in a redtop longblock and it works fine. Is the only difference the ECUs?

For example - the motor harness that you buy will work for a s13 redtop or blacktop (non type-x) and the ECU's for the blacktop and redtop will work back to back , correct? (non type-x ecu).
Correct.

For example I started with a blacktop swap but put in a redtop longblock and it works fine. Is the only difference the ECUs?
Correct, blacktop and redtop is the same, unless you are running a TypeX blacktop

[TrustS13]

So, when people are selling s13 blacktop/redtop Power FCs, whats the difference? or does the "blacktop" s13 PFC refer to the Type X ecu?

[RACETUNE]

So, when people are selling s13 blacktop/redtop Power FCs, whats the difference? or does the "blacktop" s13 PFC refer to the Type X ecu?

Usually blacktop refers to TypeX but sometimes people get confused between the 2. The best way is i will need the Part # off the Apexi Box.

[steve shadows]

All you have to do is

A. Call Apexi with no. on side of unit.

B. DONE....

I always recommend used PFC units for cost hungry people...rather than taking some other crap shoot method of cheap tuning device on these cars...

They will confirm what motor the ECU is for and then you can move forward buying it or waiting on another used EMS...

PS. I bet people will happily spend 2000 on rims but when it come to EMS everyone is looking for used units and 3-400 dollar dynojet tunes...really depressing...EMS and tuning is the one thing that you shouldn't skimp on...but that's just me and what the hell do I know about anything...

[RACETUNE]

PS. I bet people will happily spend 2000 on rims but when it come to EMS everyone is looking for used units and 3-400 dollar dynojet tunes...really depressing...EMS and tuning is the one thing that you shouldn't skimp on...but that's just me and what the hell do I know about anything...

That is so true!!!

[steve shadows]

amen ..haha

[Seraphim38]

I have no intention of skimping on tuning, but if I can get a used complete Power FC unit for $700 instead of $1400, it seemed to be a no brainer as long as I could confirm that it would work for my car. I know that I have a blacktop SR20DET (non type X, static valve timing motor) and I am interested in spending the money that's necessary to do it right but no more. I have an ECU from Enthalpy due to arrive on Thursday, but will be upgrading to 264 cams/valvetrain/800cc injectors in a month or two and don't intend on putting all that together without it being properly dialed in.

Thanks Steve and Racetune for speaking up. This issue seemed to be one that hasn't been clearly addressed before on the boards. I know that real professionals often spend time doing the sport instead of typing about it on the internet, so thanks for taking time to help spread your knowledge.

[steve shadows]

I have no intention of skimping on tuning, but if I can get a used complete Power FC unit for $700 instead of $1400, it seemed to be a no brainer as long as I could confirm that it would work for my car. I know that I have a blacktop SR20DET (non type X, static valve timing motor) and I am interested in spending the money that's necessary to do it right but no more. I have an ECU from Enthalpy due to arrive on Thursday, but will be upgrading to 264 cams/valvetrain/800cc injectors in a month or two and don't intend on putting all that together without it being properly dialed in.

Thanks Steve and Racetune for speaking up. This issue seemed to be one that hasn't been clearly addressed before on the boards. I know that real professionals often spend time doing the sport instead of typing about it on the internet, so thanks for taking time to help spread your knowledge.

Theres several threads on it on here they are just old threads.

If you need support for maps on the PFC you know who to call.

I think buying a used PFC is great idea just make sure it works and PFC verifies what car it is for before you buy it.

Custom tune >>>>>> a million times over rom tune...but Enthalpy is good stuff...unlike frumpy JWT