[vcmtuner]

Loid, let us know your assessment of the security of the unit from contamination (e.g. oil, salt, etc.) entering through the rotating adjustment mechanism.

Dave

Added a really nice cover that will be included to protect the dial from grease/dirt.


Will be included in all orders.


See attached picture.

 

[surgeon]

I also thought about it and had some parts ready. As I am in between jobs and trying to get some job-related things done, it became low priority. As for patent, I guess this addresses a few issues brought up by others before. And as with all ideas, this was simple, but it was not developed until now.

 

[John Clark]

Added a really nice cover that will be included to protect the dial from grease/dirt.


Will be included in all orders.


See attached picture.

Will the process of installing and removing the cover multiple times affect the seal on the back of the pot?

 

[vcmtuner]

Will the process of installing and removing the cover multiple times affect the seal on the back of the pot?

John


The plug does not appear to impact the tuner dial at all. The honda connector has a diameter just a tad wider of 3/4" and is tapered... You squeeze the plug a bit and it just gets on there.
I'll likely source one that isn't so thick later this week. This one is just overkill.


BTW, I tested adjusting the tuner tonight while running and I did not generate a CEL light tuning between 0 and 130 ohms while idling in the shop.
I watched the temperature swing from 158F (120 ohms or so) degrees to about 180F (0 ohms) w/ the torque app viewing the ECT gauge. This was after driving the vehicle for about 8 minutes.


Checked the codes w/ torque app afterwards and none were found. So I would suspect the circuit being interrupted/disconnected is generating the CEL as we discussed earlier in the thread.

 

[John Clark]

Ok, so it's pressed on to the plug, not the pot itself. That should work.

 

[vcmtuner]

That was the plan I had in mind. I even priced the connectors from verbatim. I still give full credit to Verbatim for this invention. This is not an improved way. Its just adding the variance to the innovation that Verbatim did so painstakingly.

I am sorry OP but I had already thought of this before I bought verbatim's unit. Its great that you're trying to get the certification etc done but patenting this? Really?

>>I even priced the connectors from verbatim. I still give full credit to Verbatim for this invention.
>>This is not an improved way. Its just adding the variance to the innovation that Verbatim did so painstakingly.


I know verbatim was the first to actually implement a product to sell. No debate there.
I have nothing but respect for his work here and help to others.


I even listed the history of his work in the "how it works" section on my website and referenced him with
shipping the first pluggable product.


He has contributed greatly to those who want to fix this issue.
But he also learned and used the work of others.
TMuchacho discovered the operating temp back in 2014 ...
VCM in Cold Temps - Honda Pilot - Honda Pilot Forums


I'm sorry your a bit bent out of shape that I brought this concept to reality first.


Go look at my big tuner concept box a while back that had a PCB board and individual resistors mounted to the battery box
on the website. It was pretty nice and was in a good location. But it was time consuming to build.
My first prototype was so easy to manipulate that my wife could do it.


I agonized how to make the battery mount work for more models, but it was a real pain to
standardize on that large of a box in an import vehicle.


Looked through tons of rheostats and many are just junk. Found the right one that
would work within the diameter of the female honda connector; while also allowing
me to disconnect the whole plug with the dial attached without getting in the way of the
release clips. I have bags full of different parts while doing R&D that won't ever get used from mouser.
The rheostats that were even descent in terms of size were not watertight, and did not have
the proper temp ratings. I read datasheets. This was some R&D to put this together, and the final product looks sexy.


You honestly don't think this is an improved way? There was always room in the marketplace for improvement.


- No more key-rings or ziplock bags to keep track of all those plugs for the muzzler.
- Re-enable VCM without pulling out the plug on the harness for diagnostics or freeway trips.
- fine tune in 1-2 ohm increments instead of 15-20 ohms plugs.
- Tune the setup while the vehicle is still running.
- Tune the vehicle while it's still hot so you don't trip a CEL. Tuning does not disconnect the circuit.
- Locate the tuner dial in a position where I can see it and use it without getting my hands burnt.




I will also say the harness itself has room for improvement. I'm going to start looking at developing
a Y style harness to reduce the amount of stress on the factory wiring and plug-in the original connector
as close as possible to the ECT1 sensor.


Sorry you don't see the value in what I am offering. Others here do.
I've had quite a nice number of comments and discussion with members on the forum and facebook already about the product.


The patent I filed covers an analog version w/ a potentiometer, as well as an enhanced digital version.
I also devised another method in the patent to disable VCM outside of the temp sensor hack.
The temperature gauge VCM modification is an already accepted method to disabling VCM in the enthusiast market.


As you know, anyone can utilize work in someone's patent and do DIY. That's the whole point.
Patents protect things at the commercial level. Sure, anyone can build what I just did DIY and put it on their ride,
I'm betting most won't be interested in sourcing the parts, buying proper crimpers and soldering the tuner
wires together, and make it all work reliably. For me, it's been an enjoyable diversion from my normal day-to-day
efforts and my wife can't get over how much better the van drives that her husband fixed.


Patents are absolutely a function of industry when you are going to invest a
substantial amount of your savings and time into mainstreaming a product.
The VCMUzzler has been a terrific improvement to the lives of Honda owners in the enthusiast market.
My long-term goal for VCMTuner is to reach beyond the enthusiast market to the average consumer. That market is 100% up for grabs to those who can crack the formula.
I welcome constructive feedback from all.


Brock

 

[surgeon]

The patent I filed covers an analog version w/ a potentiometer, as well as an enhanced digital version.

Which one is the digital one on the website?

 

[CroMath]

The VCM Tuner looks pretty slick. Nice website too - impressive all the way around.

I can see the appeal of easier tuning for those who may need that feature to get their VCM-equipped vehicle to perform the way they want it to. To be honest, I'm the kind of guy who's probably better off without an excuse to be fiddling around under the hood non-stop. I'd be experimenting constantly. I can hear my wife now: "Leave the van alone and come inside - it was fine the way you had it!" :tongue::tongue::tongue:

For those who are already getting successful results with the VCMuzzler, I don't think there would be a lot of impetus to switch to the Tuner. But I think you're probably correct in thinking the market for VCM defeat devices is far from saturated.

Best of luck!

 

[vcmtuner]

@surgeon
I have designed a digital pot version that is a concept in the patent, including line drawings. The digital concept is actually not very difficult, just time consuming and expensive to get off the ground. The design can utilize bluetooth w/ odb2 combined with the ECT1 sensor or a direct calibrated method off of the ECT1 sensor. I discussed with John the other night about it. Compliance issues become more cumbersome - FCC certification is now required as a class A digital device and it's also expensive as it's going to require testing for digital harmonics at an accredited FCC testing lab, like Underwriters Laboratories (UL). The product would likely need to be installed by dealerships and would include an ECO-SWITCH on the dash in the spare slot on the tourings/EXL for on/off operation. It would be a nice deluxe setup, but would likely require the skill level of car alarm or stereo installers to install nicely w/ wires through the firewall for the switch and the proper key-ignition plugs for 12v. I'm sure most enthusiasts would be capable of installing it themselves. I'll see how things progress w/ the traction on the analog version. According to my consultant, a condition of certification for CARB compliance, any product that could modify emissions must have components with a useful life of 10+ years and ideally should exceed the life of the vehicle. That can be difficult with 180F+ temps under the hood and would require quite a bit of cooling if the microcontroller was not located in the cabin.

 

[vcmtuner]

@CroMath

Thanks for the feedback and compliments. For people in your situation I do sell a VCMTuner plug that works w/ the muzzler II for $50 and takes advantage of that harness. Shipping is insane to Canada unfortunately; minimum is like $16-18 bucks for even small stuff. Get an ODB2 bluetooth module like a compact VeePak and leave it plugged in and use it with your phone. Use that product in combination w/ the VCMTuner and you'll find a perfect sweet spot you can leave alone for quite a while. Come summer time just turn the dial a half to one click clockwise if the eco light comes on. I don't see many people who will need to turn it past the 60 setting. Keep doing that until it's winter again. Then turn it back to the position labeled 40 (about 80-83 ohms).

 

[dvpatel]

I'm sorry your a bit bent out of shape that I brought this concept to reality first.

Oh I am not bent out of shape at all. I only wanted to do this for myself with the dial being in the cabin in one of the empty switch slots. I was going to make a grand total of ONE unit and only use it myself. I do not have time to make these and sell them and as you can see, I didn't even have the time to make the single one piece.

My point is, had verbatim patented his before you, you likely could not have proceeded with the analog version that you are now selling. Its good that you're improving the original design.

Though, that said, there is a distinct difference between the two of you. Verbatim PM'd and asked for selling his unit as he read the sale policy of this site. You posted your's for sale in your intro thread immediately after joining and you still do not meet the for sale/trade forum terms that are rather easy. You will likely meet them today or tomorrow.

 

[Our Odyssey]

@CroMath

Thanks for the feedback and compliments. For people in your situation I do sell a VCMTuner plug that works w/ the muzzler II for $50 and takes advantage of that harness. Shipping is insane to Canada unfortunately; minimum is like $16-18 bucks for even small stuff. Get an ODB2 bluetooth module like a compact VeePak and leave it plugged in and use it with your phone. Use that product in combination w/ the VCMTuner and you'll find a perfect sweet spot you can leave alone for quite a while. Come summer time just turn the dial a half to one click clockwise if the eco light comes on. I don't see many people who will need to turn it past the 60 setting. Keep doing that until it's winter again. Then turn it back to the position labeled 40 (about 80-83 ohms).

I looked at your website - and this was exactly how I had envisioned the Muzzler with a variable adjuster - thanks so much for bringing this out. Question - the add on for the Muzzler you are selling, will you be offering it with a cover? I may just buy the whole thing and sell the muzzler I have to a friend.

 

[sontakke]

I have no horse in this race as I am still driving 1999 Odyssey.

However, the idea of patenting this or having Honda dealer install this or getting it blessed by EPA or Honda is to put mildly, phenomenally stupid idea. It would be trivial for Honda to disable VCM. All it will need would be a single bit flag in their existing software.

As an engineer, you must understand difference between a solution, bug fix, disabling existing feature, a hack, a work around.

 

[dvpatel]

I have no horse in this race as I am still driving 1999 Odyssey.

Oh but you will have your horse in this race eventually if you stick with Honda as they have VCM in almost all platforms now that run their V6.

 

[sontakke]

Certainly! But my point about OP's claims still stand. Can you comment on the complete stupidity of official Honda endorsing this product?

 

[dvpatel]

Certainly! But my point about OP's claims still stand. Can you comment on the complete stupidity of official Honda endorsing this product?

Honda will never endorse this. They introduced the whole VCM monstrocity to meet some CAF standards by squeaking in a mile or two higher MPG and giving up a whole lot of complications/issues. Why would they endorse anything for bypassing that system. Infact, they say VCM is not a problem at all if you ask the dealers.

 

[vcmtuner]

Oh I am not bent out of shape at all. I only wanted to do this for myself with the dial being in the cabin in one of the empty switch slots. I was going to make a grand total of ONE unit and only use it myself. I do not have time to make these and sell them and as you can see, I didn't even have the time to make the single one piece.

My point is, had verbatim patented his before you, you likely could not have proceeded with the analog version that you are now selling. Its good that you're improving the original design.

Though, that said, there is a distinct difference between the two of you. Verbatim PM'd and asked for selling his unit as he read the sale policy of this site. You posted your's for sale in your intro thread immediately after joining and you still do not meet the for sale/trade forum terms that are rather easy. You will likely meet them today or tomorrow.

I've inquired with autoguide for several months about advertising
with them on all of their honda related forums with no response. Not sure what's up with them.


In fact, I even asked John Clark the best way to proceed with introducing the product to the forum after
PM'ing him days ago. So I would disagree with you about your opinion of my behavior here. I've been respectfully treading lightly here.


I haven't posted anywhere else regarding the product in the main section of the forums.


I've been more than polite and respectful to others here on the forums. Wish you would do the same.


This section said to introduce yourself, so have and what I am offering.

 

[dvpatel]

I've inquired with autoguide for several months about advertising
with them on all of their honda related forums with no response. Not sure what's up with them.


In fact, I even asked John Clark the best way to proceed with introducing the product to the forum after
PM'ing him days ago. So I would disagree with you about your opinion of my behavior here. I've been respectfully treading lightly here.


I haven't posted anywhere else regarding the product in the main section of the forums.


I've been more than polite and respectful to others here on the forums. Wish you would do the same.


This section said to introduce yourself, so have and what I am offering.

I am sorry if you feel that I am being disrespectful to you. I am not. You did introduce yourself and provide your website in your very first post on this forum. Yes. You did not post in the for sale forum but you did skirt your way around the rules. If being called out for doing that is disrespecting you, then so be it.

I see value in your product and I also see that you're not going to take people's money and run and that is precisely why your thread is still here. Normally, for sale type threads are deleted and the poster gets a PM citing to meet the rather easy terms and then post.

 

[davedrivesody]

Honda will never endorse this.

No question about that.

Honda's endorsing any VCM defeat device would be akin to VW's diesel engine emissions cheating scheme. The EPA would pounce on Honda like a rabid wolf.

Dave

 

[surgeon]

Its good that the OP capitalized on a very simple idea, while most put it as a low priority (unless they have lots of free time). Even my kid thought of this. Though he is not an engineer yet, he is into scouting and robotics (multiple-yr world champions). I was gathering these electronic parts for us to build together as learning experience and to earn another badge. At the time its about fun as the OP put it. Its not about being bent, being disrespectful, or anything like that. Its the fact that it is the motion of filing a patent that is brilliant here. (I need to remember to introduce him to this concept.) Because there was value in previous research and people willing to try it out. The OP also included other concepts into it. That way people can do a diy if need be but cannot monetize on it without making it really different. If you recall there are several versions of the disabler. Now comes along a patent with nothing new or anything but with "concept" brought to "reality". Unlike others who did not patent, he saw the research, bought a van recently, tried it out, and then took the next steps. Good for him. Well enough of that .... If my kid does not want to really make this, then I would buy this product as well just to move along and not keep waiting and waiting.

If Honda admits the problem or endorses it, then its not only a loss for them but also need to come up with another stupid idea. I thought they already had something else coming up in the future. I remember someone posting that news here. Knowing honda, there will be something wrong with the implementation of that as well (joking).

@Our Odyssey, he did say in previous post that the cover will be included now with all shipments.