Hello All!
First post to the forums! Ron made a good point in that we should all post our progress for the masses.
Initial install of the Groove was the latter part of October. There was a noticeable increase in power, however the MPG's have suffered. Historically, I've gotten 18.5 MPG. With the Groove, range has been from 14.4 to 20.9. My last two fill ups were 17.4 and 18.7 MPG.
Here's what I've done under the direction of Ron:
1. Quantity of Chemtool fuel system cleaner in the oil (about a shot's worth or capful) and let idle for an hour to clean up the valves.
Additionally, at a later time, dropped Old Fashioned Naphthalene moth balls into the gas tank upon fill up. Approximately 20 moth balls.
2. Checked manifold pressure - appears to be normal at around 19" Hg.
3. Next is to check for vacuum leaks. Ron suggests getting a propane torch and using the gas (obviously not lit!) to search for the leaks among all the vacuum sources.
4. I have yet to wrap the exhaust prior to the catalytic converter. I have the wrap available - just haven't had the time to apply it.
5. I drive like a maniac now! LOL! I put the pedal to the metal every chance I get! Sure makes driving a lot of fun. Lol! Trying to massage those long and short term fuel trends.
What I've noticed:
- Exhaust smells like.......exhaust...until the engine gets to operating temp, then there is a slightly "sweet" smell to it.
- Engine is running like a top! Very smooth and quiet, except for the Groove squeal, which isn't all that loud nor annoying.
- Noticeable increase in power, but not as much as I was expecting - judging by all the testimonials. Yet, the increase in power puts a smile on my face. I'd describe it as "peppy."
I was wondering if my particular Groove (the one sent to me) has some sort of flaw. Looking at some of the pictures of other Grooves, mine looks much more scalloped and less refined than the others. Additionally, the throttle body had some sort of residue that even covered the electrodes that clips to the ECU. Here's my Groove:
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Here's one that looks a bit more refined:
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So, still a work in progress! But, looking forward to getting better results! Thanks for everybody's help!!
Andy
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