Computer/BCS question

[Rich]

The more I read, the more questions I have. I have a 85 SVO I am updating to an 86 intake and injectors. I also got a LA2 computer to put in. I read the LA2 and LA3 are about the same. I am getting ready to install all the new parts but just read the LA2 will limit boost to 10psi in the top three gears while the LA3 will give 15psi in all gears.
Here's my questions.
I was planning to use the factory BCS at first. I believe this is how the computer controls boost and with the LA2 computer, I would be able to only get 10psi of boost. (my stock gets approx. 14psi looking at factory gauge) The LA3 would solve my problem.
If I installed a Gill's boost control valve the computer would not control the boost so either computer would work fine----is this correct?
I like being able to adjust the premium/regular switch if I get bad gas. My understanding is the timing and boost is retarded. (approx. 6 degrees and 5psi) With a Gill's BCS, will the timing still be retarded?
Your forum is the best! Without it, I would scared to modify anything.
Thanks--Rick.

[svobud]

ok .. my understanding, the LA computers will not work with your stock BCS. You will have to use a manual boost valve such as the Gillis. Yes, the prem switch will still retard timing when set in the 'regular' mode... but boost will be at whatever level it's 'manually' set at - as it's no longer computer controlled through a silenoid. IOW, in order to lower the boost level, you will have to pop the hood and "twist" it down to a desirable level. The more you become familar with whichever boost valve you use - the more you'll be able to easily know ' how turns (or half turns) it takes to lower X number psi of boost.

Personally - there's not many mods you can do to a 84 or early 85 model SVO that will give the same 'bang for the buck' as a simple computer/injector change.

[Rich]

Thanks for answering my questions. Running the manaul boost valve, will the LA2 work as good as the LA3 computer or should I try to buy a LA3?
Rick

[kiwi]

Re: Rick.....

I don't know which is better Rick (la2 or La3)....But I do know its important to make sure the pooter is for a manual shift (more aggresive factory program).....The premium/regular switch will only control timing with the manual Gillis.....Make sure your fuel system (pump, injectors, etc.) can handle the additional boost~ best way is to run an A/F.....

[cobra0478]

LA-3 standard
LA-2 standard
LB-2 auto
OPPS you are right ,I was sleeping again. Sorry.
Don

[Rich]

Thanks---I quess I will have to find a LA3 to put in my car.
Rick.

[Pat_in_L.A.]

LA2 and LA3 are both for standard trans.
PK1, LB2 and 8UA are for automatics.

[kiwi]

Different Computers.......

Theres a handy chart for those pooters somewheres.....Do a search.....I don't know if they are in order of preference tho' based on upgrades....Remember to go a little bigger if you're thinking about more mods down the road.....You can 'detune' but you can add psi to your fuel pump if its maxed out......

[svoman2300]

Re: Computer/BCS question

Originally posted by Rich
the LA2 will limit boost to 10psi in the top three gears while the LA3 will give 15psi in all gears.
Thanks--Rick.

I wish there was a way to erase myths and misconceptions off the interent. There is no way the computer knows what gear you are in. There isn't a sensor on the transmission that lets the computer know what gear you are in.

[Rich]

Do you know of anybody that has used the LA2 computer instead of the LA3 and has no problem of high boost in all gears?
Rick.

[Rich]

My boss bought a new turbocoupe back in 1987. He ordered a automatic and took awhile to get because it was the first one the dealer had seen. I remember reading it had less HP to protect the automatic. After reading what everyone has responded with, I will buy and set a manual boost valve to approx 15psi, disconnect the computer controlled boost valve, and try the LA2 computer and hope for the best. My stock 85 SVO has no boost in first gear (probaly Ford protecting the drivetrain) so I hope to have a car that is more to drive.
Rick.

[SVOeric]

the SVO's don't have any boost limiting "stuff" on them --

the reason you don't see boost in 1st is because it takes load to make boost, and in 1st, you don't have that much load.

on top of that-- 1st gear goes really quick -- so you would have to be pretty tallented to watch the boost gauge, the road, and change gears all at the same time.

[140cilx]

Hey Mike,

Another Item I'd like to know more about is the auto computer vs. manual computer in those Turbocoupes.

Some say the (and is mentioned above) auto Turbocoupe computers like the LB2 have a different fuel curve and are less aggressive combined with less boost, some say they are the same great fuel curve, just don't allow the boost. You know which is bull?

I've read this argument for a couple years now, never seen anything substantiated.

I don't understand why Ford would give the auto cars a lesser fuel curve when they could just back off on the boost and still have maximum economy.

Can you clear that one up?