EFI Questions

How "safe" and "reliable" is the BDS Electronic Fuel Injection System?

The development of our Electronic Fuel Injection system began in 1980. We continue to improve and develop the EFI supercharged product line and have seen much success. In 1985, Blower Drive Service established the "supercharged" after market EFI system. This system was added to a number of cars that were successful in the completion of the Hot Rod Power Tour. A customer who used this system was able to take his 1933 Pro Street WillyÕs with a Chevy small block blown/EFI engine more than 7,500 miles and averaged 14-15 mpg.

How technical or difficult is this EFI system to use?

We provide a detailed instruction sheet for installation with each kit sold. We do, However, feel it would be helpful to have a basic knowledge of computers when implementing this system. Although many of our customers are able to success- fully install this system on their own, but, we would suggest that you have a professional do your installation.

How "street able" is this EFI system?

The overall running quality of the engine is determined by the tune up. When it is properly tuned, it is very street able.

What happens to fuel economy when using the BDS EFI systems?

The EFI system has a great ability to deliver both fuel economy and horsepower. The fuel economy is unusually improved over carbureted systems, because of how and when the fuel is delivered into the engine; this is a direct result of proper EFI tuning.

How do I "tune" the BDS EFI systems?

The EFI system does require the use of a computer for tuning. We recommend using a basic IBM compatible computer or laptop to modify the ECUÕs operation in finishing your installation.

Can I "tune" a BDS EFI system myself after I install it?

As with any new software it is important that you become familiar with the program. This program is easy to follow but it is important that you have basic tuning skills. However, if you require additional assistance with your BDS EFI system, you may contact BDS directly.

Does the ECU lose its memory if the battery is disconnected?

The ECU system differs from "factory" ECU systems, due to the fact it does not require a battery to retain its memory. You can remove or disconnect The system from the vehicle and it will still retain its memory.

Do I need more than one fuel line from the fuel tank?

Yes, you will need "2" fuel lines with this system. The BDS EFI fuel system operates on the principle of "return fuel". The fuel is drawn from the fuel tank to the pump and then delivered forward to the BDS EFI system. Fuel that is not needed is returned through a second smaller fuel line to the fuel tank, which is called "return fuel line."

Do I need to change my charging system?

Installing the EFI system to a motor will increase electrical load to the existing charging system. It is strongly recommended that you use an alternator, with a charging rate of between 95-105 AMP capacities.

How do I pick the right camshaft for use with the BDS EFI?

Much time has been spent in developing and testing BDS cam grinds at the "dyno". From this testing we are able to offer a variety of grinds which are listed in the BDS catalog. In addition, we offer special custom grinds. For further assistance with cam selection, you may call the BDS tech line.

Why is a BDS EFI kit sold by horsepower ratings?

The BDS EFI kit is sold this way in order to provide enough fuel to produce the required horsepower, as each motor requires a specified amount of fuel to make each horsepower. For supercharged motors this number is .6 of a pound of fuel per hour for each horsepower. For normally aspirated motors, this is .45 of a pound of fuel per hour for each horsepower. The fuel flow requirement can be calculated by multiplying each horsepower by either using .6 or .45, regardless of the cubic inches.

Can I run my stereo system along with the BDS EFI kit?

The only problem comes from the stereo installation, when the EFI and the stereo share the power source on the same wires, the power will draw from both systems, this will drop the available voltage from the battery. It is critical that both systems be wired directly to the battery without sharing power wires in order to function successfully.

I already have EFI in my car. Will it run the BDS/EFI system?

The factory ECU is not a high output controller. It is designed to operate fuel injectors just large enough to deliver fuel to the stock motor. In high performance applications, more horsepower requires more fuel and the factory ECU is not designed to understand boost pressure in the intake and so cannot be tuned for supercharged applications.