I couldn't get the Spark Updater to launch initially. I log onto Superchips website and download their Spark Updater software, plug in the programmer, and see what it tells me. Of course, with my luck, this free programmer was locked to another VIN number that was probably 'donated' to a junk yard. It is the older outdated model that will only program a 7.3L and a 6.0L. I came across a Superchips Flashpaq 1805 model. Especially the tow mode and checking fuel economy numbers. I needed to investigate further and test out the benefits of the Superchips further. I figured I didn't give the product a quality fully tested review. I thought to myself, maybe I was too hard on the product and expected too much from my own older truck. That little bit of pep seemed to make the world of difference when I was back to stock. Oh, now it seems like that was a horrible idea. I restored the truck, and sent the Flashpaq back. I was unsatisfied with my purchase so I took advantage of the 60 day no hassle return policy. I have driven Superchips tuned automatic 7.3L Powerstrokes and they seem like it makes the world of difference, but with a manual transmission I just couldn't justify spending that much money on just a little gain. I noticed nice gains in mild acceleration through 3rd and 4th gears. I didn't have to downshift from 5th nearly as often. I really enjoyed the extra power on mid range while cruising in overdrive. Seemed like a waste, but I kept it programmed for 3 weeks. I hardly ever push that poor truck that hard. However, I didn't really see the big deal. It accelerated as if it was a 1000lb lighter standard cab. Let's just say that yes the truck had quite a bit more pep in its step. "Ah," as I exhaled a deep breath I said to myself "Did I really just blow $300 on THIS?" I floor the truck - slamming through the gears - all the while looking in the rear view mirror seeing a charcoal smoke fill the air.
Pull out of the drive and find a straight away to give it a test drive.
It takes about 3 minutes to program the truck, and when its done I fire it right up. I go out to the truck, plug in the tuner and go to performance quick tune (skipping all the other programmable settings). I'm excited I'm ready to let the untamed beast loose. I purchased it and 2 days later (because of my Amazon Prime membership) I received it in the mail. It features a data logger, programmable tire sizes for speedometer adjustment, internet up-datable, and 4 preset tunes. I figured if I bought this one, I could always use it in the future if I upgraded trucks or even if I bought a car. I liked this model because it allows programing of almost any Ford engine, gas or diesel. I found the Superchips 1842 Flashpaq Tuner on Amazon for a fair price. I did my research on the subject and eventually found the product I wanted to buy. So I went on the hunt - to find a programmer to up the ante on my Powerstroke. Seemed to just lack power, but I do work on newer 6.0L, 6.4L, and 6.7L Powerstrokes all time at work so maybe I am just not used to the older engine. It was - like I said - lackluster in the acceleration department. The engine had approximately 180K miles on it. I did replace a high pressure oil rail quick release fitting which is a fairly common problem as well as my injector o-rings. The engine was in fair condition and didn't need much mechanical work. The truck is an early 1999 F250 Superduty 4-door Super Crew with a manual transmission. It had become quite a project to say the least. Here's a little background information for my truck for those who are interested. Everyone speaks very highly of this programmer, so I decided to give it a try and see if it would help my lackluster 7.3L Powerstroke. Lets just say: Yes, I know I am about 10 years behind the curve of these Superchips programmers. Wondering if you should get a Superchips programmer for your 7.3L Powerstroke? I decided to bite the bullet and purchase a Superchips 1842 Flashpaq Tuner to review for your pleasure.