Has anybody done the Megasquirt/GM TBI conversion on their car?

[Secret Chimp]

Reading this page, it seems pretty dead nuts simple to install:

http://www.diyautotune.com/tech_articles/megasquirt-carb-to-efi-part1-nova.htm

For Mopar FI retrofits with GM stuff, I've only ever come across a page where a guy attempted to adapt an entire GM TBI system, ECU and all, to a 67 Belvedere. I'd expect it doesn't really matter what brand of car you do this on for a conversion from "analog" carburetion though.

Has anybody done this same conversion on their car to any success?

 

[rev.ronnie]

I had a customer install a similar setup on a 390 Ford. He had it on there for a while but couldn't really get it dialed in. Actually, I was a little surprised he even took on such a conversion since he really doesn't know that much about EFI.

The problem, IMO, with retrofitted EFI systems, is that you still are utilizing a throttle body that was marginal to begin with. The GM TBI was a "controlled leak" at best, when it came out to begin with. The injectors didn't really atomize fuel that well.

I would think, that with the aftermarket systems out there now like FAST and Atomic EFI, that the DIY type systems like Megasquirt may have seen their day in standard applications. When it's all said and done, a couple grand for a master system that is "plug and play" is just more economical in the long run than piecing a system together and getting marginal results.

I'm sure in specialty applications that the Megasquirt will still fit the bill for some, but for a nice 4 barrel EFI the FAST EZ EFI system may be the best way to go.

 

[Meep-Meep]

Not yet done. I'm helping a buddy on here with a MS conversion by providing some of the metal fab work, welding, etc.. while he is quite qualified to handle the electrical stuff. We are hoping for above average results but also expecting this to require an above average level of attention to make work.

 

[dpstark2]

I'm working with Meep-Meep on my Charger- the conversion is going well, but I'm going full port injection, sequential, ignition- everything, eventually. Like was stated, the TBI units are "OK" but not a major upgrade. You might get better cold starts, hot starts, idle, etc., but not much else. Also, TBI stuff to feed a big motor might be difficult. However- it will get you started on an upgradeable path that will lead to better results eventually. My friend that has done the MS route has had TBI, and he had good results, but nothing like multiport.

I don't know remember the article said about fuel supply, but plumbing a pump and return line are some of the harder parts. Return-less systems are pretty useless and will further compromise the TBI setup.

With MS, expect more work on your part, maybe a little less money, and a lot more tuning than an off-the-shelf system. But I believe the flexibility and results will be worth it.

 

[Secret Chimp]

So probably better to go with a Magnum intake/TB/injectors then? This is just going on a street 318, nothing nuts.

 

[dpstark2]

I don't know the small blocks at all, but if they fit, yeah that's a great way to go! I know there are some geometry issues with Magnum heads and LA blocks, but I think it can work... Someone else might know better. I bet the 5.9L stuff would work well for you- if you can get it all to mate up.