How To Remove Governor On Car

Governors, in the automotive world, are speed-limiting devices designed to restrict a vehicle's maximum velocity. These mechanisms are often implemented by manufacturers for various reasons, including safety regulations, tire limitations, or to differentiate performance levels within a model range. Removing a governor can unlock a vehicle's potentially higher top speed, but it's a modification that should be approached with caution and awareness of the potential consequences.

Understanding Governors: Types and Functionality

Governors can be broadly categorized into mechanical and electronic types. While older vehicles often employed mechanical governors, modern cars predominantly use electronic systems integrated within the Engine Control Unit (ECU).

Mechanical Governors

Mechanical governors rely on physical mechanisms to limit speed. These might include:

Centrifugal Governors: These use rotating weights that move outwards as engine speed increases, eventually restricting the throttle linkage.
Vacuum Governors: These respond to changes in intake manifold vacuum, reducing fuel supply when a predetermined speed is reached.

Removing a mechanical governor generally involves disconnecting or disabling the physical linkage that restricts the throttle. For example, on a centrifugal governor, you might remove the weights or modify the linkage to prevent it from engaging. While this might seem straightforward, it's crucial to understand the specific mechanism in your vehicle and ensure the modification doesn't create other mechanical issues.

Electronic Governors

Electronic governors, controlled by the ECU, are far more sophisticated. They typically function by limiting fuel delivery, spark timing, or both. Here's a breakdown of how they operate and methods for removal:

Fuel Cutoff: The ECU cuts off fuel supply when the vehicle reaches the pre-set speed limit.
Spark Retardation: The ECU retards the spark timing, reducing engine power and limiting acceleration.
Throttle Limitation: The ECU restricts the throttle opening, preventing the engine from reaching its full potential.

Removing an Electronic Governor: Methods and Tools

Removing an electronic governor requires modifying the ECU's programming. This can be achieved through several methods:

ECU Tuning/Remapping: This is the most common and recommended method. It involves using specialized software and hardware to rewrite the ECU's code, removing the speed limiter and potentially optimizing other engine parameters.
Piggyback ECUs: These devices intercept and modify signals between the ECU and the engine components. They can be used to bypass the speed limiter, but their effectiveness and reliability can vary.
Speed Limiter Delete Modules: These are plug-and-play devices designed specifically to remove the speed limiter. They often work by tricking the ECU into thinking the vehicle is traveling below the limit.

Tools Required

The tools needed will vary depending on the method chosen, but generally include:

Laptop Computer: Necessary for running tuning software and connecting to the ECU.
ECU Flashing Tool/OBDII Interface: Used to read and write data to the ECU. Examples include OBDLink MX+ or KTuner.
Tuning Software: Specialized software specific to your vehicle's ECU. Common options include HP Tuners, EFILive, or COBB Accessport.
Basic Hand Tools: Screwdrivers, sockets, and wrenches might be needed to access the ECU or connect the flashing tool.

Step-by-Step Guide to ECU Tuning (General Overview)

This is a general overview. The specific steps will vary depending on your vehicle, ECU, and tuning software. Always consult the software's documentation and seek professional assistance if needed.

Research and Preparation: Identify your vehicle's ECU type and research compatible tuning software. Download and install the software on your laptop.
Connect to the ECU: Locate the OBDII port in your vehicle (usually under the dashboard) and connect the flashing tool to the port and your laptop.
Read the ECU's Current Program: Use the tuning software to read the existing program from the ECU. This creates a backup file in case something goes wrong.
Identify the Speed Limiter Parameter: Locate the parameter that controls the speed limiter. This might be labeled "Speed Limit," "VMAX," or something similar.
Modify the Speed Limiter Value: Increase the speed limiter value to a number beyond your desired maximum speed, or disable it completely.
Flash the Modified Program to the ECU: Use the tuning software to write the modified program to the ECU. This process can take several minutes.
Verify the Changes: After flashing, disconnect the flashing tool and start the vehicle. Use a GPS-based speedometer or a data logging tool to verify that the speed limiter has been removed.

Real-World Example: Tuning a Ford Mustang with HP Tuners

Let's consider a common scenario: removing the speed limiter on a Ford Mustang using HP Tuners. The process involves connecting the HP Tuners interface to the OBDII port, reading the ECU's calibration file, and then using the HP Tuners software to modify the "Speed Limiter" parameter. This parameter is typically found within the "Engine" -> "Speed/Rev Limits" section of the software. Once the speed limiter value is increased or disabled, the modified calibration file is flashed back to the ECU.

Important Considerations:

Backup Original File: Always create a backup of the original ECU calibration before making any changes. This allows you to revert to the original settings if necessary.
Monitor Engine Parameters: After tuning, it's crucial to monitor engine parameters such as air/fuel ratio, ignition timing, and knock to ensure the engine is running safely and efficiently.

Piggyback ECU Installation (General Overview)

A piggyback ECU intercepts and modifies signals from the factory ECU before they reach engine components. Installation typically involves identifying the correct wiring harnesses and splicing the piggyback ECU's wires into the factory wiring. This can be a complex process, and incorrect wiring can damage the ECU or engine.

Identify Required Signals: Determine which signals the piggyback ECU needs to intercept to bypass the speed limiter (e.g., vehicle speed sensor, throttle position sensor).
Locate and Access Wiring Harnesses: Find the appropriate wiring harnesses for the identified signals.
Connect the Piggyback ECU: Splice the piggyback ECU's wires into the factory wiring harness according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Configure the Piggyback ECU: Use the piggyback ECU's software or hardware interface to configure it to bypass the speed limiter.
Test and Verify: After installation, test the vehicle to verify that the speed limiter has been removed and that the engine is running correctly.

Speed Limiter Delete Modules

These modules are designed for simple plug-and-play installation. They typically connect to the vehicle's wiring harness and trick the ECU into thinking the vehicle is traveling below the speed limit. While these modules are easy to install, their reliability and effectiveness can vary depending on the vehicle and module design.

Potential Risks and Considerations

Removing a governor is not without its risks. Before undertaking this modification, consider the following:

Warranty Implications: Removing a governor can void your vehicle's warranty.
Safety Concerns: Exceeding the vehicle's intended top speed can be dangerous, especially if the tires, brakes, and suspension are not designed for those speeds.
Legal Restrictions: In some jurisdictions, it might be illegal to remove a speed limiter.
Engine Damage: If the engine is not properly tuned after removing the governor, it could lead to engine damage due to over-revving or other issues.
Increased Wear and Tear: Operating the vehicle at higher speeds can increase wear and tear on various components, such as the engine, transmission, and tires.

Consult a Professional: If you are not comfortable with modifying your vehicle's ECU, it is best to consult a qualified automotive technician or tuner. They can perform the modification safely and ensure that your vehicle is properly tuned for the increased performance.

Conclusion

Removing a governor can unlock a vehicle's potentially higher top speed, but it's a modification that requires careful consideration and technical expertise. Understanding the different types of governors, the methods for removal, and the potential risks is crucial before undertaking this modification. Whether it's through ECU tuning, piggyback ECUs, or speed limiter delete modules, always prioritize safety and ensure that your vehicle is properly tuned to handle the increased performance. Remember to always check local regulations and consider the impact on your vehicle's warranty before proceeding. Always prioritize safety and seek professional help when needed. Remember that modifying your vehicle can impact its safety and performance, and should be done responsibly.