Exhaust gas analyzer questions for tuning a 308 QV | FerrariChat
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Exhaust gas analyzer questions for tuning a 308 QV

Discussion in 'Technical Q&A' started by stevel48, Oct 6, 2014.

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  1. stevel48

    stevel48 Formula 3

    Jan 4, 2005
    1,998
    Metrowest MA
    Full Name:
    Steve (85 308 Owner)
    #1 stevel48, Oct 6, 2014
    I would like to check the state for the cars mixture with an EGA. I have some questions for those "in the know" about what I really need.

    1. Is an analyzer that measures CO enough?
    2. Anyone have experience with Hawk or ASI analyzers? accuracy?
    3. Is a digital A/F gauge like the innovate LM-1 better than a CO analyzer?
    4. Is it worth spending a lot more on a 4 gas when you have a car with k-jet lambda?

    Thanks
     
  2. Rifledriver

    Rifledriver Three Time F1 World Champ

    Apr 29, 2004
    37,087
    Cowboy Capitol of the World
    Full Name:
    Brian Crall
    #2 Rifledriver, Oct 6, 2014
    I can't imagine not having a 4 gas. Knowing what CO is without knowing HC or CO2 isn't the whole story especially if any diagnostics are to take place.
     
  3. finnerty

    finnerty F1 World Champ

    May 18, 2004
    10,406
    #3 finnerty, Oct 6, 2014
    Last edited: Oct 6, 2014
    Measuring CO only will at least tell you whether or not it is safe to run the car ---- i.e., let you know if the mixture is so far out of whack that the engine / emissions equipment could get damaged.

    4-gas is the way to go --- but, pretty darn $$$ for a DIYer's toolbox.

    I maintain cordial relationships with local shops (non-Ferrari), and just give them a few bucks to take 4-gas readings for me whenever I feel the need. They know they will not be working on the car, but seem happy enough to show it off in their bay, run the gas test, and collect $60-$70 from me ---- it's win-win, as far I am concerned :).
     
  4. 2dinos

    2dinos F1 Rookie

    Jan 13, 2007
    3,017
    #4 2dinos, Oct 17, 2014
    imho: I like the IRI unit (FGA4000 series). Huge LED display, and it operates on 12V, so you can take readings while using the car. Pricey tool, but gets rid of unknowns.
     
  5. bill308

    bill308 Formula 3
    Silver Subscribed

    May 13, 2001
    1,224
    Windsor, CT
    Full Name:
    Bill Sebestyen
    #5 bill308, Oct 17, 2014
    IMHO, a CO only, gas analyzer is fine for measuring and setting air fuel ratio (AFR), especially at the DIY level. The AFR to CO% correlation is well understood and inexpensively implemented. Ferrari sets its emissions and idle tuning requirements based upon CO%.

    If you are working hard to pass emissions or are trouble shooting an elusive problem, a 4or 5-gas analyzer gives you a lot more tools.

    Bill
     

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