How To Take Off Governor On A Car

Removing a governor from a car, often called "chipping" or "tuning," is the process of disabling or modifying the factory-installed speed limiter or performance restrictions. These governors are put in place by manufacturers for various reasons, including safety, tire ratings, and fuel efficiency. While removing a governor *might* unlock additional speed or power, it's a complex procedure with significant implications you should carefully consider.

Why Governor Removal Matters: Understanding the Implications

Before you even think about removing a governor, it's crucial to understand why they exist and the potential consequences of tampering with them. Here’s a breakdown:

Manufacturer Intent and Safety

Car manufacturers design vehicles as a cohesive system. The governor is often part of that system. For example, a car might be equipped with tires rated for a maximum speed. The governor prevents the vehicle from exceeding that speed, thus mitigating the risk of tire failure and a potentially catastrophic accident. Other reasons include:

Tire Speed Ratings: As mentioned, tires are rated for specific speeds. Exceeding this rating significantly increases the risk of tire blowout.
Vehicle Stability: A car's suspension and aerodynamic design are optimized for a particular speed range. Going beyond this range can compromise handling and stability, especially in emergency maneuvers.
Engine and Transmission Longevity: Governors can protect the engine and transmission from excessive stress and wear at high RPMs. Removing the governor can shorten the lifespan of these critical components.
Legal Compliance: In some regions, speed limiters are required by law, especially for commercial vehicles. Removing or tampering with them could result in fines or other penalties.
Fuel Efficiency: While seemingly counterintuitive, limiting top speed can sometimes contribute to better overall fuel economy by discouraging aggressive driving.

Potential Drawbacks of Removal

Removing the governor can introduce several risks:

Voiding Your Warranty: Tampering with the car's computer or drivetrain almost certainly voids the manufacturer's warranty on those components.
Increased Risk of Accidents: As discussed above, exceeding the designed limits of the vehicle can significantly increase the risk of accidents, especially at high speeds.
Mechanical Damage: Over-revving the engine or putting excessive stress on the transmission can lead to costly repairs or even complete failure.
Insurance Implications: If an accident occurs and it's determined that the governor was removed, your insurance company might deny coverage, leaving you financially responsible for all damages.
Legal Consequences: In some areas, modifying a vehicle to exceed factory speed limits may be illegal.

How to Choose the Right Approach to Governor Modification

If, after considering all the risks, you're still determined to proceed with governor modification, you have several options, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. It is *strongly* recommended to consult with a qualified and experienced automotive technician before making any modifications.

ECU Tuning/Remapping

This is the most common method. It involves reprogramming the car's Engine Control Unit (ECU) to bypass or raise the speed limiter. This can be done in a few ways:

Professional Tuning: The best (and safest) option is to take your car to a reputable tuning shop that specializes in ECU remapping. They'll use specialized software and equipment to adjust the engine parameters, including the speed limiter. A good tuner will also ensure that the modifications are safe for your engine and transmission.
DIY Tuning with Aftermarket Software: Several aftermarket software packages allow you to tune your ECU yourself. However, this is a highly complex process that requires a deep understanding of engine management systems. Incorrect settings can cause serious engine damage.
Piggyback ECUs: These devices connect to the existing ECU and modify its signals. They're often easier to install than full ECU remaps, but they might not offer the same level of control and can sometimes cause compatibility issues.

Considerations for ECU Tuning:

Reputation of the Tuner: Do your research and choose a tuner with a proven track record. Read reviews and ask for references.
Dyno Tuning: A good tuner will perform dyno tuning after the ECU is remapped to ensure that the engine is running optimally and safely.
Customization: The best tuning solutions are tailored to your specific vehicle and driving style. Avoid generic "one-size-fits-all" tunes.
Potential for Problems: Even with professional tuning, there's always a risk of unforeseen issues. Be prepared for potential troubleshooting.

Mechanical Governor Modifications (Rare)

In older vehicles with mechanical governors, it *might* be possible to physically modify or remove the governor mechanism. However, this is a rare and often impractical approach. It's usually more effective and reliable to use ECU tuning, even on older cars.

Dangers of Mechanical Modification:

Complexity: Accessing and modifying the governor mechanism can be difficult and require specialized tools.
Irreversibility: Mechanical modifications are often irreversible, making it difficult to restore the car to its original condition.
Potential for Damage: Incorrect modifications can damage the engine or transmission.

Real-World Owner Experiences

The experiences of other car owners who have removed governors can offer valuable insights:

* The Speed Demon: Some owners report significant increases in top speed and acceleration after governor removal. They often describe the car as feeling more "alive" and responsive. However, they also acknowledge the increased risk and the importance of responsible driving. * The Weekend Racer: Track day enthusiasts often remove governors to improve performance on the circuit. They usually combine governor removal with other modifications, such as improved suspension and brakes, to ensure that the car can handle the increased speed. * The Regretful Modder: Some owners regret removing the governor due to increased fuel consumption, mechanical problems, or insurance issues. They often wish they had left the car stock or consulted with a professional tuner before making any modifications. * The Cautious Optimizer: These individuals often opt for a mild ECU tune that raises the governor limit slightly while prioritizing engine safety and fuel efficiency. They seek a balance between enhanced performance and long-term reliability.

It's important to remember that every car is different, and the results of governor removal can vary depending on the vehicle's make, model, and condition. Read online forums and owner reviews specific to *your* car before making a decision.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions about governor removal:

Q: Is it legal to remove the governor from my car?

A: The legality of governor removal varies depending on your location. Check your local laws and regulations before making any modifications.

Q: Will removing the governor improve my car's fuel economy?

A: Generally, no. Removing the governor usually *decreases* fuel economy because it allows you to drive at higher speeds and accelerate more aggressively.

Q: How much does it cost to remove a governor?

A: The cost varies depending on the method used. Professional ECU tuning can range from several hundred to over a thousand dollars. DIY tuning might be cheaper initially, but it comes with a higher risk of damage.

Q: Will removing the governor damage my engine?

A: It *can* damage your engine if done improperly. Over-revving the engine or running it outside its designed parameters can lead to serious mechanical problems. This is why professional tuning is usually the safest option.

Q: How can I tell if my car has a governor?

A: You can usually tell if your car has a governor if it abruptly stops accelerating at a certain speed, even if the engine has more power to give. The owner's manual might also provide information about the car's speed limiter.

Q: Is it possible to reinstall the governor if I change my mind?

A: If the governor was removed through ECU tuning, it's usually possible to reinstall the original settings. However, mechanical modifications might be irreversible.

Q: What other modifications should I consider if I remove the governor?

A: If you're removing the governor to improve performance, you should also consider upgrading other components, such as the suspension, brakes, and tires, to ensure that the car can handle the increased speed and power safely.

Q: What are the alternatives to removing the governor for improved performance?

A: Instead of removing the governor entirely, consider performance upgrades within the factory limitations. This could involve a less aggressive ECU tune focusing on optimizing fuel maps and ignition timing without significantly raising the speed limiter. Upgrading components like the air intake, exhaust system, and spark plugs can also improve performance without compromising the vehicle's safety or warranty.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Always consult with a qualified automotive technician before making any modifications to your vehicle. Removing a governor can have serious consequences, and it's your responsibility to ensure that any modifications you make are safe and legal.