Hey y'all,
Your typical truck forum is filled with a bunch of hyperbolic opinions about AFM that really isn't rooted in any understanding of how it works or mechanically what could go wrong. Therefore, I don't really take their opinions seriously. I trust tuners. Y'all have a vast understanding of how it all works together from a engine management and mechanical standpoint.
What's your experience with AFM in the following categories:
1) Mechanical - are there actually reliability issues with the lifters themselves? Simply disabling AFM doesn't change the lifters are a weak point. Also, are there any other related issues like with torque converters? I understand that some slip is enabled in AFM mode.
2) Tuning perspective - is it just easier/more predictable to eliminate the variables? If you make adjustments to fueling/timing do those translate over to AFM mode? Can AFM be optimized in any way so that it stays in the mode longer? I notice that if I cruise in tow/haul mode it actually engages AFM much more often because it stays in a higher gear.
Basically, I notice that I get hands down better fuel economy with AFM enabled. Driveability is reduced though. But for me, when I want to play around, I just put it in M-whatever, tow/haul, and disable traction/stabilitrak. When I'm just cruising and don't plan on fooling around, I just let it do it's thing.
Thanks in advance for your opinions!