Pre-sales question: what do I need and where do I start

[NoradIV]

Hello Guys,
I'll try to make this one simple.

I have a 2002 Z06 that I heavily use on the track. For now, the engine has had no modification other than replacement valve springs (known issues, they tend to snap) and an upgraded radiator/engine oil cooler.

I would like to start tuning my car; I currently have some issues and minor improvements I would like to make, notably a very slight knocking likely due to our shitty canadian gas. I would also like to improve throttle response and disable some un-necessary features like the 1 to 4 shift. In the near future (perhaps next year), I would like to do a head/cam swap. I am also very interested in building a ITB setup, but that would be later down the road once the rest of the chassis has been upgraded.

I am looking to purchase now to at least fix the knocking issue, as well as use HPTuner as a diagnostic tool. I would learn as I go.

I have some theorical knowledge about AFR, timing, engine operation and such.

Here are my questions:
1. What do I need as far as MPVI for doing this? Is the PRO something I should consider or am I wasting my money?
2. Do you guys have any literature/videos/documentation I could start with? I am not looking to do a master's degree in engine tuning, but I would like to understand what I am doing, the effect of my changes and especially not destroy my engine, as aluminium LS engines are both uncommon and VERY expensive around here.

Thanks for your time!

[Bill@HPTuners]

1. you should consider using the pro and a wideband
2. you can purchase the tuning school GM advanced course here https://www.hptuners.com/product/the...tuners-course/

[NoradIV]

What does the advanced course vs the basic course covers?

[Bill@HPTuners]

What does the advanced course vs the basic course covers?

BASIC Summary

• + Learn to tune using HP Tuners 4.X software specifically on Gen III & Gen IV LS vehicles (for an overview list of engine types, see below)
• + Topics include:
  
  • + The basics of how to use the HP Tuners software
  • + What tables need to be changed for your tuning needs
  • + What the tables mean, how to understand them and how to adjust them properly for your vehicle modifications
  • + The correct order of tuning, such as when to adjust fuel, spark, etc.
  • + Separate guide for MAF & VE tuning (covers Virtual VE)
  • + 4 Speed Automatic Tuning Guide
  
  
• + Learn a safe and effective repeatable process that you can use over and over again for three different vehicle modification types:
  
  • + Bolt-ons
  • + Heads/Cam
  • + Forced Induction
  
  

*FULL VERSION OF THE SOFTWARE NOT INCLUDED Your Course Includes

• + 336 page full color manual written in a process-oriented format for safe and effective tuning
• + 60 page separate full color manual on MAF and VE Tuning & Now Virtual VE is included.
• + Laminated checklists for quick reference on the tuning process for each vehicle modification type (bolt-ons, heads/cam, forced induction)
• + Digital download with example tune files that guide you through the changes made for certain more complex tables
• + One year of technical support through our Online Ticket System

Our course material is based on late model GM LS and Vortech Vehicles. This includes the:
LS1, LS6, LS2, LS3, LS7, LS9 and LSA.
Vortech V8 4.8L, 5.3L, 6.0L, 6.2L and 8.1L ranging from 1998 to 2015.
What it is NOT directly covered by the course material:
Direct injection (which is covered by our Gen V course)
4 cylinder and 6 cylinder application
Ecotech Engines
Front wheel drive LS4's
Northstar V8's

[Bill@HPTuners]

ADVANCED
*Level 1 GM course is a prerequisite*

This course will teach you advanced tuning knowledge in a topical format for Gen III / Gen IV GM vehicles. Learn about such topics as You can tune with confidence knowing that we have developed a safe, effective and repeatable process for you to follow. We also include one year of technical support to guide you along the way as needed. Topics include:

• Concepts covered
  
  • Adaptive Idle Tuning (Proportional, Integral throttle controls)
  • Idle and Part Throttle Power Tuning (Economy and power)
  • Scaling the Tune (MAF range extension)
  • Scaling the Tune (Larger injectors than allowed)
  • 2 and 3 bar Speed Density Tuning - GEN III
  • 2 and 3 bar Speed Density Tuning - GEN IV
  • E85 (Straight) Tuning
  • Flex Fuel Tuning
  • Race Fuel Tuning
  • Alcohol / Methanol / Water Injection Tuning
  • Dry Shot Nitrous Tuning
  • Wet Shot Nitrous Tuning
  • False Knock detection Process
  
  

• + 225 page full color manual written in a topical format for safe and effective tuning
• + One year of technical support through our Online Ticket System

[Bill@HPTuners]

you can find more information at www.thetuningschool.com