Ford’s “Godzilla” 7.3L V8 crate engine has become a powerhouse of choice for enthusiasts seeking robust performance and modern technology in their builds. These engines, while offering immense potential, require sophisticated engine management systems to truly shine. The integration of OBD2 (On-Board Diagnostics II) compatibility is crucial for modern engine swaps and performance tuning, allowing for seamless diagnostics, monitoring, and calibration. For those looking to harness the full potential of their Ford Obd2 Crate Engines, advanced control solutions are essential.
Understanding Ford OBD2 Crate Engines
Ford OBD2 crate engines, particularly the 7.3L Godzilla, represent a leap forward in engine technology for performance enthusiasts. OBD2 is a standardized system that allows for real-time data access from the engine control unit (ECU), crucial for diagnostics, emissions testing, and performance tuning. Using an OBD2 compliant crate engine simplifies integration into modern vehicles and provides tuners with valuable data for optimizing engine performance and reliability. The benefits are clear: easier troubleshooting, enhanced tuning capabilities, and broader compatibility with aftermarket performance parts and diagnostic tools.
The Challenge of Engine Control and OBR’s Solution
Modern engine control is a complex task, especially when dealing with high-performance crate engines like the Ford Godzilla. These engines are packed with advanced features like variable valve timing, electronic throttle bodies, and sophisticated fuel injection systems. Effectively managing these systems requires a powerful and adaptable ECU. OBR (OBR Control Systems) steps in to bridge this gap with their E8G engine control kits, specifically engineered for Ford OBD2 crate engines, including the formidable Godzilla. OBR’s control packs are designed to seamlessly integrate with the Ford engine, eliminating the need for sensor or actuator modifications.
Key Features of OBR Ford OBD2 Control Kits
OBR control kits are built around the E8G standalone engine controller and are complemented by high-quality components, ensuring optimal performance and reliability for your Ford OBD2 crate engine.
E8G ECU: Brain of the Operation
The E8G ECU, designed and manufactured in Italy, is at the heart of OBR’s control packs. Originally developed as an OEM system for a renowned sports car manufacturer, the E8G has been enhanced to provide full sequential control for engines like the Godzilla, even those with 16 injectors. This ECU is versatile, supporting both early and late (2023 onwards) versions of the Godzilla engine. It boasts OEM-level control features, including flex fuel capability, and on-board data recording. The E8G is calibrated for premium 93 octane fuel at 60 psi fuel pressure, ensuring optimal performance right out of the box. For regions where 93 octane fuel is unavailable, OBR provides an 87 octane calibration option. Users with the OB256 calibration tool have the freedom to further adjust spark advance and other parameters.
High-Quality Engine Wiring Harness
OBR’s wiring harnesses are manufactured in Livonia, Michigan, utilizing aerospace-grade wire with cross-linked ETFE insulation. This advanced wire is exceptionally durable, lightweight, and resistant to abrasion, cut-through, high temperatures (rated from -85°F to 392°F), and harsh chemicals commonly found in automotive environments. The use of thin yet robust insulation results in a compact and lightweight harness without compromising durability. The harnesses are fitted with new OEM connectors and terminals, ensuring perfect fitment with sensors, injectors, coils, electronic throttle body (ETB), variable cam timing (VCT), and the oil pressure control valve on the Godzilla engine. The harness design is optimized for clean installation, with the Y-split strategically positioned for ease of routing. The ECU connection is extended, allowing for flexible ECU placement, either in the engine compartment or inside the cabin. The harness is wrapped in high-strength, abrasion-resistant polyester tape, rated up to 300°F, further ensuring longevity and reliability.
Power Wiring Harness & Relays
Each OBR control kit includes a power supply harness constructed with the same high-quality wire and tape as the engine harness. This harness features three 30A fused relays: one for engine control, one for the fuel pump, and a spare relay that can be used for accessories like a cooling fan.
TMAP Sensor and Fitting Adapter
To accurately determine engine load, OBR kits include a TMAP (Temperature Manifold Absolute Pressure) sensor and an adapter for easy installation onto the intake manifold, requiring no drilling. This sensor measures manifold vacuum, providing crucial data for precise engine management.
Broad Throttle Body Support
OBR systems are designed to be versatile, supporting virtually any throttle body type, categorized into: cable-operated with analog position sensors, drive-by-wire with analog position sensors, and drive-by-wire with digital SENT position sensors. This wide compatibility ensures adaptability to various intake and performance configurations.
Comprehensive Kit Options for Every Need
OBR offers a range of control kits tailored to different engine setups and tuning requirements:
Kit 1: Naturally Aspirated Engines
This base kit is designed for naturally aspirated Ford Godzilla crate engines and includes:
- OBR E8G standalone engine controller.
- High-quality engine wiring harness with OBD II port.
- Power supply cable with 3 relays and fuses.
- Gasoline calibration for naturally aspirated engines with standard injectors, coils, and throttle body.
- NTK wideband lambda sensor for closed-loop fuel control.
- 1 bar TMAP sensor and adapter.
- OBD II link.
Kit 1A: Recommended NA Kit
Building upon Kit 1, the 1A kit adds:
- Second NTK wideband lambda sensor for bank-to-bank closed-loop fuel control, improving fuel trim accuracy and optimizing performance across engine banks.
Kit 1B: Tuner Kit for NA
For enthusiasts seeking full tuning control, Kit 1B includes Kit 1A features plus:
- OB256 ECU communication kit, granting complete access to ECU calibration parameters for custom tuning and optimization.
Boost Kit 2: Turbo/Supercharged Engines
Designed for forced induction applications, Boost Kit 2 includes:
- OBR E8G standalone engine controller.
- High-quality engine wiring harness with OBD II port.
- Power supply cable with 3 relays and fuses.
- Gasoline calibration for boosted engines (7 psi boost, 760 hp) with standard injectors, coils, and throttle body.
- NTK wideband lambda sensor for closed-loop fuel control.
- 3 bar TMAP sensor and adapter, suitable for boosted pressures.
- OBD II link.
Boost Kit 2A: Recommended Boost Kit
Enhancing Boost Kit 2, the 2A kit incorporates:
- Second NTK wideband lambda sensor for bank-to-bank closed-loop fuel control in boosted applications, critical for precise fuel management under pressure.
Boost Kit 2B: Tuner Kit for Boost
For those demanding ultimate control over boosted engine tunes, Boost Kit 2B offers Kit 2A features along with:
- OB256 ECU communication kit, providing unrestricted access to ECU calibration for turbo or supercharged engine tuning.
Which Kit is Right for You?
Choosing the correct kit depends on your engine build and tuning goals. For naturally aspirated setups, Kit 1, 1A, or 1B are suitable, with tuner kits offering advanced customization. For boosted applications, Boost Kit 2, 2A, or 2B are designed to handle the demands of forced induction. OBR recommends contacting them to discuss your specific engine program, including intake manifold, throttle body, and camshaft choices, to ensure the ECU tune is precisely matched to your configuration. While base calibrations are provided, minor adjustments might be necessary based on specific components, easily achievable with the OB256 communication kit.
Installation and Performance
Straightforward Installation
OBR control packs are designed for straightforward installation. Key steps include: mounting the TMAP sensor adapter, installing the engine harness (with OEM connectors for direct fit), connecting the throttle pedal, plugging in the power supply harness, connecting power wires, hooking up fuel lines and setting fuel pressure (58-60 psi with premium gasoline), and connecting headers to the exhaust. No initial calibration or adjustments are needed; the system is pre-calibrated for immediate startup.
Optimized Performance and Drivability
OBR calibrations are meticulously developed to optimize performance, drivability, and fuel economy. Extensive fine-tuning ensures excellent engine behavior across various performance levels for the Godzilla engine. OBR’s testing, conducted with the original water pump active (but typically without alternator or vehicle exhaust), reveals impressive figures for the standard crate engine calibration:
- Maximum Power: 500 hp @ 5,800 RPM
- Maximum Torque: 560 lbft @ 4,000 RPM
These figures are in accordance with STP (Standard Temperature and Pressure) norms, which tend to show slightly higher power ratings compared to the J1349 automotive norm.
Advanced Features for Enhanced Control
OBR E8G ECUs are packed with advanced features, enhancing control and providing valuable data access:
OBD II Data Export
The ECU exports a comprehensive list of OBD II data channels, including: Engine RPM, MAP, MAF, Barometric Pressure, Fuel Pressure, Fuel Rail Pressure, Coolant Temperature, Throttle Position, Pedal Position, Lambda values per bank, Fuel Corrections, ECU Battery Voltage, Ethanol %, Turbo RPM, Exhaust Temperature per bank, and Transmission Gear. This extensive data set allows for detailed diagnostics and performance monitoring using standard OBD II tools.
CAN Data Export
In addition to OBD II, the E8G ECU exports 80 data channels via CAN (Controller Area Network). This feature enables data display on CAN-based dashboards, export to transmission controllers, and connection to data loggers. CAN export is in Big Endian format at 1 Mbit/s.
On-board Data Recording
With the optional communication kit, users can access the ECU’s 64 Mb on-board data logging. The system records over 60 channels, and OBR provides data analysis software for in-depth performance evaluation.
Vehicle Speed and Traction Control
The wiring harness includes inputs for up to four wheel speed sensors, allowing for car speed generation from a single sensor or advanced race-developed traction control with four sensors.
Drag Race and Launch Control
The ECU software includes drag race features such as a two-step limiter, transmission lock, target boost pressure control, throttle position control, spark advance offset, RPM limiter, and nitrous control, all adjustable as a function of a drag timer.
Gear Shift Control (Manual)
For manual transmissions, the software offers a gear shift strategy with individual shift settings per gear for both upshifts and downshifts, optimized for race-type transmissions.
Automatic Transmission Support
For automatic transmissions, a standalone controller is required, and the OBR engine harness provides connections for power, ground, engine RPM, load, and CAN data export to compatible transmission controllers.
Instrument Cluster Connection
The ECU can transmit data via CAN to virtually any instrument cluster with CAN data import capability. OBR is building a compatibility database and offers support for cluster integration.
After-Sales Support and Dealer Network
Excellent After-Sales Support
OBR provides exceptional after-sales support, including 12 months of free phone and email support for kit-related questions and tuning assistance. One-time ECU tune adjustments are also included with purchase, requiring the OB256 kit. OBR offers both rental and purchase options for the OB256 communication kit, with rental costs deductible from purchase if you decide to buy after renting. For comprehensive remapping support, OBR offers engineering support at an hourly rate.
Purchase and Dealer Inquiries
OBR control packs are available through selected specialist dealers nationwide. These dealers are equipped to support E8G software features and can assist with performance modifications like camshaft upgrades, supercharger installations, or turbo conversions, as OBR kits are easily updated to accommodate such changes. Dealer inquiries are also welcomed.
Conclusion:
OBR Ford OBD2 crate engine control kits, built around the advanced E8G ECU, offer a superior solution for managing your Ford Godzilla engine. With comprehensive kit options, high-quality components, straightforward installation, and exceptional after-sales support, OBR empowers enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of their Ford OBD2 crate engines. Whether you’re aiming for naturally aspirated power or boosted performance, OBR provides the control and features you need to dominate. Contact OBR or your nearest specialist dealer today to find the perfect control solution for your Ford Godzilla OBD2 crate engine project.
