LY7 Retune After 8 Years – Why Proper Calibration Still Matters
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
It’s not every day we see a car return after eight years, but when Blake brought his LY7-powered Commodore back in for a retune, it was a perfect reminder of how much tuning technology — and the car itself — can change over time.
Since its last visit, the vehicle had undergone multiple modifications, making a fresh baseline and recalibration essential to ensure everything worked together safely and efficiently.
Baseline Check & Diagnosis
As always, the first step was to establish a current baseline run. During this process, we identified a failed coil pack, which was replaced before proceeding. Ignition health is critical on these platforms, especially when camshafts and airflow upgrades are involved — a weak coil can drastically affect power and drivability.
Current Modification List
Blake’s LY7 now runs a well-rounded naturally aspirated setup designed to improve airflow and RPM efficiency:
CPR6 ignition system
Stock headers and catalytic converters
ORSSOM OTR intake
CPR6 race intake manifold
Catback exhaust system
Performance camshafts
This combination allows the engine to breathe more freely, particularly in the mid to upper RPM range.
Dyno Results – Before & After
With previous tuning, the car was producing around 150 rwkW. However, on its first run during this session, power had dropped to just 120 kW at the wheels in third gear — highlighting how changes over time and hardware issues can dramatically affect performance.
After a full recalibration, the results spoke for themselves:
📊 Final Numbers
Before retune: 120 kW at the wheels (3rd gear)
After retune: 180 rwkW 🚀
That’s a massive recovery and improvement in power, responsiveness, and overall engine efficiency.
Why Third Gear Was Used
Due to the vehicle’s diff ratio, tuning was performed in third gear. On this setup:
Third gear provides stable load control
Fourth gear would typically show higher peak kW but lower Nm
Regardless of gear choice, the gains were clear and consistent across the rev range.
Final Thoughts
This build highlights an important lesson: mods alone don’t guarantee performance. Proper diagnostics, updated tuning strategies, and attention to ignition health are just as important as the hardware itself.
Eight years later, Blake’s LY7 is now running stronger than ever — with sharper throttle response, improved drivability, and a solid 180 rwkW outcome.
If your car hasn’t been tuned in years, or you’ve added new mods since your last session, it may be time for a refresh.
Comments