Tunes: aFe Scorcher vs. OTT vs. JB4 vs. VF Tuner

[Henry]

Product / video description:

Unlock instant power with this plug-and-play tuner module without flashing your ECU. Cycle between 4 modes via an in-cabin controller, with the highest setting Race mode delivering up to +30 horsepower and +37 lb-ft of torque on the dyno. Part number 77-46015 fits the 24-25 Gas & Hybrid Toyota Tacoma.

The Scorcher works by modifying signals in real time and increasing boost and turbo efficiency. Installation is straight forward, typically taking around 20 minutes, and includes locating the MAP and T-MAP sensors and reconnecting them to AFE's provided harnesses.

MAP & T-MAP locations on the 2024 Tacoma TRD Off-Road:
• The MAP sensor is located on top of the intake manifold.
• The T-MAP sensor is at the front of the engine bay.

Installation tips:
• Most installation issues come from plugging into the wrong sensor. Double-check each harness connection:
• The aFe female connector labeled MAP should plug into the vehicle’s MAP sensor.
• For the T-MAP sensor, connect the aFe female connector labeled T-MAP to the T-MAP sensor, then plug the aFe male connector into the factory engine harness female plug.
• Make sure all connectors are fully seated before powering on the vehicle.

Dyno-chart, installation, and more information: https://afepower.com/afe-power-77-460...

0:00 Intro
0:32 What's in the box
0:48 Power down ECU
1:04 MAP & T-MAP sensors
1:52 Where to mount
2:08 In-cabin controller
2:23 Run through firewall & connect
2:28 Installation complete
2:35 Dyno chart
2:41 Outro

 

[TN Vols]

I've had good experiences with piggyback ECU tunes in the past. Easy install and removal. Some questions:

Anyone thinking of tuning their gas or hybrid 4runners?
Anyone had experience with aFe piggback tune unit?
How does aFe Scorcher tune compare to competitors like OTT by @JustDSM?

 

[alpa_chino]

I've had good experiences with piggyback ECU tunes in the past. Easy install and removal. Some questions:

Anyone thinking of tuning their gas or hybrid 4runners?
Anyone had experience with aFe piggback tune unit?
How does aFe Scorcher tune compare to competitors like OTT by @JustDSM?

I am probably going to get mine done...eventually. Never had a piggyback system though. I have had multiple cars tuned but my understanding was that a tune like the OTT was the superior tune. Maybe someone with more knowledge can chime in between the two

 

[spyder40]

following

 

[4WheelBugout]

The new 4runner has got my attention due to how tuneable it actually is. Some people have hated on the addition of the turbo, but I'm embracing it.

I've had a simple tuning module on my mini cooper before that transformed the car, and it was a simple piggy back module from burger motor sports that added a small PSI boost to the turbo.

I'll be doing the same with my SR5 once it arrives as the piggyback module can't be detected by the dealership so it keeps warranty intact. I was cross shopping the Outback Wilderness, but because of the CVT transmission it's very finicky with tuning modules - the new turbo 4runner seems to be the better candidate.

One other thing... I don't get the attraction to buying the hybrid model if you can simply add a small tune to the gas only version and produce more power in a much lighter vehicle. Another reason why I'm aiming for the SR5 base gas only. Save 10k and have more fun?

 

[4WheelBugout]

Here's a simple module from burger motor sports for the 2024+ Tacoma - I'd assume JB4 piggyback for the new 4runner will be out very shortly. Add's +75 HP with no other mods.

https://burgertuning.com/collection...ce-parts/products/jb4-for-toyota-tacoma-turbo

 

[kekecarioca]

Any idea if any of this plug in Tunes helps increase efficiency?

 

[4WheelBugout]

Any idea if any of this plug in Tunes helps increase efficiency?

From what I understand, they also increase efficiency as well as power output. The tunes essentially create the best functioning parameters for the engine, whereas they come "detuned" from Toyota due to regulations. I'm no pro, so don't take my word for it, but this is what I understand just by doing a little research into it.

 

[kekecarioca]

From what I understand, they also increase efficiency as well as power output. The tunes essentially create the best functioning parameters for the engine, whereas they come "detuned" from Toyota due to regulations. I'm no pro, so don't take my word for it, but this is what I understand just by doing a little research into it.

Thanks for your input on the matter. I found this on BMS site, but that's just them:
"Fuel economy unchanged" (presumably with more power you can probably have a lighter foot...)
And I know that this is not what these tunes are for.

 

[Mudbath]

I've used the JB4 on a couple of Mini's and never had any problem. I was in the throttle a lot more with those than I am with my trucks, but it is nice to have that extra mid-range power.

 

[mars001]

What's the catch? There must be one, or Toyota already put it in from the factory to boost their marketing brochure.

 

[4WheelBugout]

I've used the JB4 on a couple of Mini's and never had any problem. I was in the throttle a lot more with those than I am with my trucks, but it is nice to have that extra mid-range power.

They must have been really popular for the mini's because I keep hearing of others who used them. I just had the little JB+ module on mine, tiny little thing that added like 4-5 psi boost if I remember correctly. The little hatchback was so light that any gain made it feel super fast - what a fun car.

The 4runner is going to be a family wagon for me, but I still want to have some fun and be able to merge on the highway with some authority. I wonder if we're going to see an increase in power performance builds on this new 6 Gen due to the turbo.

 

[4WheelBugout]

Thanks for your input on the matter. I found this on BMS site, but that's just them:
"Fuel economy unchanged" (presumably with more power you can probably have a lighter foot...)
And I know that this is not what these tunes are for.

We can probably expect the exact same module coming for the new 4runner. 60HP to the wheels brings us to the mid 300 HP range for the gas only engine, pretty wild for a little tune. Also, because this is a piggyback it can be removed with very little trace if warranty is a concern.

 

[Keroppi]

I've had good experiences with piggyback ECU tunes in the past. Easy install and removal. Some questions:

Anyone thinking of tuning their gas or hybrid 4runners?
Anyone had experience with aFe piggback tune unit?
How does aFe Scorcher tune compare to competitors like OTT by @JustDSM?

Are there no representatives from AFE, OTT or Burger Motorsports here? Edit: actually looks like @JustDSM from OTT is here but hasn't updated or replied about his tune in a while.

Hope we get someone here to answer questions about the AFE Scorcher and JB4 tunes. I'm interested, but modding the engine is new to me so need more info and hard data from the tune's developers / tuners.

 

[EarthPIG_0311]

Found this in another 4R forum:

It posted on 3/8 by @JustDSM. Maybe he'll post it here for our forum. From the responses, some folks are interested in a tune.

From the description, this is not a piggyback tune and won't leave any trace of flashing for warranty purposes.
I will definitely tune the 4R. When I tuned my Si, completely changed the car and made it so much more enjoyable to drive. I'll always tune my cars, definitely the best bang for your buck in terms of hp/tq gains.
@JustDSM, can we gat an update or thread going on this forum?