So I had a little problem tonight. Some poser was trying to act sweet in his Cavalier, and I was forced to smack him down. Long story short, when I hit 7k in 2nd gear, the car jolted hard and a plume of black smoke came out. Do I neet to cut back my fuel trim on the high end? I'm totally clueless when it comes to tuning, so any help would be appreciated.

Sounds like fuel cut. Was it a loud bang like a backfire?

Yeah, that's pretty much it. Help me understand fuel cut again. My understanding is that it isn't a lack of fuel, but something the computer does for some reason or another. Like I said, I'm still fuzzy on tuning.

Basically the MAS sees too much air, and cuts fuel for a second. Best way to get around it is probably a GM MAS and translator.

From what I understand, there exists in the ECU a safeguard value of airflow that is in place to prevent a lean condition. I can't recall the value off the top of my head, but when the value is reached, the ECU momentarily interrupts fuel and spark delivery until the value is "safe."

What are your current tuning tools? And your injector size.

I'm running 550s with the MAFT setup. Justin had it pretty well dialed in, but I got my pocketlogger, and decided to play with it like an idiot. I've pushed the car harder than this before without problems, so I know the setup is capable. Basically, I need to know what I screwed up.

I know this sounds simple, but do you remember where the settings were?

If not, go back to basics. Set idle, base, mid, WOT, etc. Did you change the injector size in the translator?

No, I'm not sure where the settings were at. I know it's literally a matter of turning a knob, I'm just not sure where to put it. What I really need to know is do I need more or less fuel if I'm getting cut? I can adjust it on my own if I know that.

Um... I think you need a rider for your tuning. I suggest Natedogg, Marcus, Spy, or myself. Everything you need to know is shown on the logger. You just have to read it correctly and adjust accordingly. I'd be willing to help if you need it.

Get a logger and get everything set correctly. You are dealing in an area that can burn a piston in seconds. Your car will be much faster and run much better after a good tuning night.

Is anyone willing to do a ride along with me? Thursday night is the only time I can't do it, but I"m wide open other than that. I've got the logger and all that, so I just need someone riding shotgun.

I'll be around on Saturday. PM me if you're interested.