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Unlock Your Cosworth's Full Potential

16/01/2022

Rating: 4.58 (4561 votes)

The Ford RS Cosworth, a true icon of automotive engineering, holds a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts across the globe. Its distinctive silhouette and the formidable Cosworth engine nestled within its bay are synonymous with rally dominance and road-going exhilaration. While already a masterpiece of its era, the potential for enhancing its performance, efficiency, and overall driving experience is immense. With over two decades of dedicated experience in optimising these very engines, we offer a range of meticulously refined tuning packages designed to unlock the true potential of your cherished Cosworth.

Does Ford RS Cosworth have a tuning package?
Ford RS Cosworth Tuning Packages. The Cosworth engine inside your vehicles engine bay is truly a legend within automotive history. The good news is that with over 2 decades of experience in tuning this engine, we can offer you a number of well refined tuning packages.

Our approach to Cosworth tuning is rooted in deep understanding and precision. We don't just offer generic upgrades; instead, we tailor the chip fitted to your Engine Control Unit (ECU) to ensure that all existing modifications are perfectly accommodated. This bespoke calibration guarantees that your vehicle runs as efficiently and powerfully as it possibly can, delivering a driving experience that is both exhilarating and reliable.

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The Enduring Legacy of the Cosworth Engine

The YB engine, developed by Cosworth, is not merely an engine; it's a legend. Its robust design and remarkable ability to produce significant power from a relatively small displacement made it a formidable competitor on the rally stages and a thrilling performer on the road. This inherent strength and engineering brilliance provide an excellent foundation for performance tuning. Our extensive experience means we understand the nuances of the YB engine, allowing us to push boundaries safely and effectively, transforming a great car into an extraordinary one.

Why Tune Your Ford RS Cosworth?

Tuning your RS Cosworth isn't just about raw horsepower; it's about refining every aspect of its performance. While the thrill of increased power is undeniable, a well-executed tune can also lead to improved throttle response, smoother power delivery, and even better fuel economy. Here are some key benefits:

  • Enhanced Performance: Unlock hidden power and torque, making your Cosworth feel more responsive and agile.
  • Optimised Fuel Efficiency: Modern tuning techniques, particularly with features like Closed Loop fuel control, can lead to noticeable improvements in fuel economy.
  • Improved Drivability: A custom tune can smooth out power delivery, reduce turbo lag, and make your car more enjoyable to drive in various conditions.
  • Future-Proofing: Ensure your engine runs optimally with any aftermarket modifications you've installed, or plan to install.
  • Preservation: A correctly tuned engine, running within safe parameters, can contribute to its longevity by preventing inefficient operation.

Our Bespoke Tuning Solutions

We pride ourselves on offering a spectrum of tuning options, catering to various desires and budgets. Our expertise allows us to provide solutions that range from mild enhancements for road use to extreme power conversions for track or specialist applications. While we can develop conversions pushing well in excess of 700BHP, these highly bespoke projects are rare and tailored so specifically to each owner's unique requirements and vehicle specifications that they cannot be detailed on a standard webpage. Every aspect, from engine internals to supporting ancillaries, is carefully considered and custom-engineered.

For the majority of our clients, we offer a selection of common, yet incredibly effective, conversions that can be performed in-house. These are designed to provide significant performance gains while maintaining excellent reliability for spirited road use. Our most popular offering is the 380BHP drive in drive out package, a comprehensive solution that transforms your Cosworth's performance with minimal fuss.

Common Tuning Package Stages

Below is an overview of our most popular tuning stages, illustrating the typical gains and what they entail:

Tuning StageApprox. BHPTypical Modifications RequiredKey BenefitsSuitability
Stage 1 (Chip Only)~250-280Standard engine, upgraded chipImproved throttle response, smoother power, mild increaseDaily driving, first-time tuners
Stage 2~300-330Upgraded chip, exhaust, intercoolerSignificant power increase, more audible turbo, better coolingEnthusiasts, spirited road use
380BHP Drive-in/Drive-out380+Upgraded chip (P8 or L8 with specific mapping), larger turbo, injectors, fuel pump, exhaust, intercooler.Substantial power, exhilarating performance, comprehensive packagePerformance enthusiasts, track days
Custom High-Power400-700+Highly bespoke; includes forged internals, custom turbo, advanced ECU, custom fuel system, extensive cooling.Extreme performance, tailored to specific goalsDedicated racers, collectors, specialist builds

The 380BHP Drive-in/Drive-out Package

Our 380BHP package is a testament to our refined tuning process. It's designed to be a seamless upgrade, allowing you to simply drive your Cosworth in and drive out with significantly enhanced performance. This package typically involves a carefully calibrated ECU chip (either an L8 or P8, depending on your vehicle's setup), combined with necessary hardware upgrades such as a larger turbocharger, higher flow fuel injectors, an uprated fuel pump, and a more efficient intercooler and exhaust system. The result is a substantial leap in power and torque, transforming the driving dynamics of your Cosworth into something truly special, while ensuring reliability for sustained enjoyment.

Understanding Closed Loop (CL) Fuel Control

One of the most significant advancements we offer in our tuning packages, particularly for improved efficiency and emissions, is Closed Loop Fuel Control. This intelligent system can be seamlessly integrated into any of our L8 chips and comes as standard with all our P8 chips.

How Closed Loop Works

Closed Loop fuelling utilises a lambda sensor strategically placed in the exhaust downpipe. This sensor continuously monitors the oxygen content in the exhaust gases, providing real-time feedback to the ECU. Based on this information, the ECU makes precise, instantaneous adjustments to the fuel delivery, ensuring that the air-fuel mixture remains at its most efficient ratio. This dynamic adjustment is particularly effective at idle speeds and up to approximately 4000rpm or 4psi of boost, conditions where fuel economy and emissions are most critical.

Benefits of Closed Loop Fuel Control

The advantages of integrating Closed Loop fuel control are manifold:

  • Excellent Fuel Economy Benefits: By constantly optimising the air-fuel mixture, the engine consumes fuel more efficiently, leading to noticeable savings at the pump.
  • Outstanding CO Emissions: The precise control over fuelling significantly reduces harmful carbon monoxide emissions, making your Cosworth more environmentally friendly.
  • Stress-Free MOT Tests: Lower emissions naturally translate to an easier passage through the rigorous UK MOT emissions test, saving you potential hassle and retest fees.
  • Enhanced Smoothness: The continuous fine-tuning of the fuel mixture can also contribute to a smoother idle and more refined low-speed drivability.

This excellent feature, which significantly enhances both the efficiency and environmental performance of your Cosworth, can be added to any L8 Chip for an additional cost of only £100. It's a small investment that yields considerable returns in terms of running costs and peace of mind.

Do you give 100% back for an old Cosworth chip?
Yes, we give you 100% back for your old Cosworth chip when you upgrade it to a more expensive Cosworth Evolution Chip. Motorsport Developments. HERE. If you have one of our chips already, we will upgrade it for you, saving you the original purchase price. Level 6 ECU – Found in Ford Sierra Sapphire 2wd Cosworths as standard.

The Tuning Process: What to Expect

When you bring your Ford RS Cosworth to us for tuning, you can expect a meticulous and professional process designed to deliver optimal results:

  1. Initial Assessment: We begin with a thorough inspection of your vehicle to ensure its mechanical health is suitable for tuning. This includes checking for any existing faults or wear that might impede performance or reliability.
  2. Discussion of Goals: We'll discuss your specific requirements and driving style to recommend the most appropriate tuning package for you.
  3. Hardware Installation (if required): For stages beyond a simple chip upgrade, we'll expertly install any necessary hardware components such as turbos, injectors, or intercoolers.
  4. ECU Calibration: Our experienced technicians will then load and fine-tune the bespoke chip or remap your ECU. This involves precise calibration to ensure all new components work harmoniously and safely.
  5. Dyno Testing & Verification (for higher stages): For more advanced stages, we often conduct dyno testing to accurately measure power and torque outputs and verify that the engine is performing within safe operating parameters.
  6. Road Testing: Finally, a comprehensive road test is performed to ensure optimal drivability and performance in real-world conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What exactly is chip tuning?

Chip tuning, or ECU remapping, involves modifying the software within your engine's Electronic Control Unit (ECU). This software dictates various engine parameters such as fuel delivery, ignition timing, boost pressure, and rev limits. By optimising these parameters, we can safely unlock more power, torque, and efficiency from your engine.

Will tuning affect my engine's reliability?

When performed by experienced specialists using quality components and conservative safety margins, tuning should not negatively impact your engine's reliability. Our two decades of experience with Cosworth engines mean we understand their limits and tune within safe parameters to ensure longevity. However, pushing for extreme power levels always carries increased risk, which is why our bespoke high-power builds are meticulously planned and executed.

How long does the tuning process take?

The duration varies depending on the chosen package. A simple chip upgrade might take a few hours, whereas our 380BHP drive-in/drive-out package, which includes hardware installation, typically requires a full day or sometimes two. Highly bespoke 700+ BHP conversions will naturally take significantly longer, often spanning weeks or months due to the custom nature of the work.

Do I need other modifications besides the chip?

For basic stage 1 tuning, often just the chip is sufficient. However, for higher power levels like our 380BHP package, supporting modifications are crucial. These typically include an upgraded exhaust system, a larger intercooler, higher flow fuel injectors, and an uprated fuel pump to ensure the engine can safely and efficiently handle the increased power output. We'll advise you on all necessary components for your desired power level.

What is the highest horsepower you can achieve with a Cosworth?

While we frequently achieve and exceed 700BHP on highly customised builds, the ultimate limit depends entirely on the specific engine's condition, the budget, and the extent of modifications. These are not off-the-shelf solutions but rather complex engineering projects tailored to extreme performance goals.

Is Closed Loop fuel control worth the extra cost?

Absolutely. For just £100, the addition of Closed Loop fuel control to an L8 chip provides tangible benefits in terms of improved fuel economy, significantly lower emissions (making MOTs easier), and often a smoother low-speed driving experience. It's an investment that quickly pays for itself through fuel savings and peace of mind.

Your Cosworth, Reimagined

The Ford RS Cosworth is more than just a car; it's a statement. With our unparalleled expertise and passion for these magnificent machines, we are dedicated to helping you unlock its full potential. Whether you're seeking a modest boost in performance and efficiency or aiming for a truly breath-taking power output, our refined tuning packages and bespoke solutions are designed to deliver an exceptional driving experience. Entrust your Cosworth to specialists who understand its heritage and engineering, and prepare to rediscover the thrill of the open road.

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