Link ECU Online Manual
16
© 2024 Link Engine Management Ltd
1.7.7
Trigger Calibration
The following instructions assume that all pre-start set-up instructions given in previous sections have been
completed. Only after all pre-start checks have been made should an attempt be made to crank the engine.
The following steps must be performed before an attempt is made to start the engine to ensure the Link ECU
is calibrated to precisely measure engine position.
1. Connect the ECU to PCLink.
2. Select Fuel -> Fuel Setup -> Fuel Main:
a. Set ‘Injection Mode’ to OFF. This will prevent the engine from trying to start while the triggers are
calibrated.
b. Perform a Store (press F4) to make sure fuelling is not re-enabled if power to the ECU is lost.
3. Select Triggers -> Calibrate and then open the Set Base Timing window.
4. Perform the correct trigger calibration procedure specific to your vehicle as described in the PCLink help
(Press F1).
Note that trigger calibration must be performed again once the engine is running. Due to the acceleration and
deceleration of the crankshaft at low speeds, an inaccurate measurement of engine timing is usually made.
Also it is often harder to see timing marks with a timing light at slow engine speeds. Trigger calibration should
be checked again at between 2000-4000 RPM where engine speed is stable and a more consistent timing
reading can be obtained.
A more in depth explanation is provided in the PCLink help Manual under ECU Tuning Functions -> Triggers -
> Calibration.
1.8 First Time Startup
For further help on any of the settings discussed below, consult the Help in PCLink Tuning Software. Help
can be invoked by pressing F1, or right clicking any item and selecting ‘What’s this?’.
Pre-set-up Checks
Before attempting to configure the ECU, ensure the following tasks have been completed:
1. Ensure the ECU and all associated components are connected and correctly wired/installed.
2. Fully charge the vehicle’s battery, as the engine will be required to be cranked during the set-up
procedure.
3. Check all oil and water levels are correct.
Connecting to PCLink Tuning Software
Use the following procedure to establish a connection between your Link ECU and PCLink Tuning Software
tuning software.
1. Make sure your laptop battery is fully charged or plugged in to mains power.
2. Connect the ECU to your laptop and connect to PCLink as described in the 'Communicating with your
ECU' section of this manual.
First Time Startup
After performing all set-up instructions given in previous sections, including trigger calibration, the engine is
now ready to be started. The following procedure should be used for first time start-up.
1. Turn the ignition key OFF then ON. The fuel pump should prime momentarily upon power up.
2. Connect the ECU to PCLink.
3. Access the runtimes values by pressing the F12 Key, click the 'Analog' tab:
a. TPS – spans from 0 to 100% when throttle is pressed. If not, perform a TPS Calibration. If the vehicle
has an E-Throttle confirm that APS (Sub), APS (Main), TPS (Sub), TPS (Main) all operate correctly
and that the throttle blade tracks the target correctly.
b. MAP – should read approx 101 kPa (at sea level, compare to BAP if not at sea level) with the engine
not running. If not, check the MAP Sensor Type setting and perform a MAP Calibration.
c. ECT – should read current engine temperature.
d. IAT – should read current intake air temperature.
e. Digital Inputs (click the 'Digital' tab) – Operate switches connected to any digital inputs while watching
the runtime value to ensure they operate as expected.
4. Rectify any faults found in Step 3.
5. Ensure the basic Fuelling setup is correct.