Chevy Colorado & GMC Canyon banner

Whats your favorite base setting?

Pedal Commander

311K views 1K replies 241 participants last post by  Thunderpig 
#1 ·
Well, I just ordered a device from Pedal Commander that hooks up to the accelerator harness to help with what I call, a sometimes dead pedal feel that these fly by wire throttles have. I had my trucks engine and trans computers re-flashed about a month ago and 98% happy with the results but still do not like the lag that I feel when hitting the throttle so I will keep you updated to what happens when it gets here and I install it. Looks like a pretty sweet setup and has nothing to do with the tune of the truck so it does not change the stock tune whatsoever. It works with the throttle circuit only as I understand it. If it does what they claim then I will be really happy with the overall way my truck runs. Right now, this has been only complaint. At 61 years young, I like the idea of plug and play, since I am not any good with the whole tuning thing, tried it but just couldn't get a grasp of it so I went completely back to stock tune and had GM redo both computers and for the most part very happy, I have no shudder with trans and it works as it should.
 
#530 ·
As discussed with some members in private messaging, I am not the most technically minded person out there. I have been a mechanic for 25 years and have dealt with, driven and worked on many many different brands and sizes of vehicles. Some vehicles have more or less throttle response than others. That is just the nature of things. Of course, likewise, all people are different and what they expect and want out of their vehicles is also different. You can take two people, put them the same vehicle and wind up with very different responses from them on how the vehicle drives and handles.

That being said, I began offering the pedal commander mainly because my loyal customers from the past wanted them. I did not begin offering them until I had done quite a bit of watching and waiting to see the reviews from others and those reviews have been astounding to say the least. I have yet to hear of anyone being disappointed in the units. This is one of the main reasons I went ahead and began offering them. I have only offered them for the past month and in that time I have sold about 100 units total. Of those units sold, not a single complaint and as a matter of fact, every single one of them has raved about how much they like the results. One customer, (as mentioned to others in PM) has a brand new 2017 Ford Raptor Ecoboost. Now his biggest complaint before receiving the Pedal Commander was lag when he stepped on it. According to him, upon installing the PC, the lag was gone. But he also likes to pay attention to his fuel economy (even though the word Raptor and fuel economy are rarely used in the same sentence). His results? With that larger twin turbo vehicle, he has seen a legitimate 2.5mpg gain over the stock mileage within a week of running it. That week included a road trip with his family for vacation that totaled just over 1100 miles.

Obviously results will vary as much as driving styles do and the way that people use the PC will vary as much as the ways in which people mod and customize their vehicles. But the thing I do like about the Pedal Commander is that it provides four modes with eight different settings per mode so that the individual customer can fine tune the settings where they want it to be to fit what they like the most and can change things up according to their mood anytime they want to.

My personal experience with the PC? I have none. Mainly because before becoming an authorized dealer for them, I tore my truck apart for some maintenance and upgrades and I have been so busy working on customer vehicles and online that I have not had time to finish my current project. The pic below is how the truck sits at the moment, although my son has the next week off and has promised to help me try to get it done with a week long thrash session. Wish me luck....
 

Attachments

#533 · (Edited)
Talking out my ass here (what else is new?) but my perception is this as it relates to my diesel with the PC:

There is a lot more to it than simply fooling the ECM that the driver has pushed the pedal farther than they really have. The stock "response curve" to the gas pedal's motion is not even close to being linear to what the ECM actually delivers via the "fly by wire" system. The initial travel of the pedal is far less than a "1:1 ratio" and then it sharply steepens it's response later in the pedal's travel. I suppose this is for fuel economy and perhaps also public restroom ass gasket engineering to sanitize the vehicle for our protection.

The PC modifies the ratio to whatever the user selects. The settings I settled on (City -2) for my truck on feel very "1:1" to me. Dial in 1/8 throttle and instead of giving 1/16 throttle, it gives 1/8 throttle. Push the pedal farther and it incrementally and perfectly responds in kind, instead of lagging and then finally waking up and giving the goods 2/3 of the way into the pedal's travel. The PC equipped pedal give exactly what I am looking for, no lag, no fooling around. I know it does not make the truck more powerful, but it sure feels more linear, powerful and alive post PC.

The PC is a feel and enhancement mod, but I really like it for the diesel. The pedal works like it is supposed to now. It does irk me to have to spend $270 to get it to work like it should out of the box, but that is the reality in my view.

Could be the gas engine trucks are different. All I know from my personal experience is the PC is a great mod for the diesel.
 
#534 · (Edited)
It has been posted a 1000 times over since I have researched the chugging problem, that some twins run perfect right out of the box as they should. Others, like myself, received a POS that GM cannot or won't fix for it not to drive like an "old truck". Some, as it has been beat to death, have no need for a PC, those of us that received a POS from GM are damn thankful that PC came into our lives without voiding the warranty. For me $270. was a steal for the relief it has given my truck.
 
#536 · (Edited)
With the diesel, try giving the pedal short, part throttle revs in park. You will notice the turbo spool up quickly. You can't duplicate that without the PC no matter what you do. Obviously that means things will be good once you put it in gear. It doesn't matter how it works. The main thing is it works great like everyone says.
 
#551 ·
Just thought I would report back on my experience with my new pedal commander especially with current conversation is going. My truck did OK stock but there were times I would hit the pedal and nothing would happen. After installing this thing, I noticed an immediate change in attitude of the Colorado! If you drive a big truck for a living, you know the importance of "throttle control". This pickup had a vague to say the least throttle before the pedal commander and now it is crisp and every motion of your foot has meaning (throttle control). After about 3 tanks of gas, I have actually seen an improvement in fuel economy, about three quarter a mile per gallon, not much but I'll take it especially averaging 18 mpg before! Also, the transmission does seem to shift better up and even down at least on my pickup and when you use the cruise control, you can see how stupid the computer really is compared to a good throttle pedal, now I can easily beat the cruise in all ways. Under cruise control, it is always shifting down on the slightest incline or gust of wind, with the pedal commander on a setting of city +1 you can easily cruise using only 1/3 of the pedal travel than before. To answer the "Scammed" comments, if you could improve throttle response, gain a little fuel economy and have a bigger grin on your face for $270 would you do it? I obviously can't answer for anyone else but I know I would! :smile2:

Had wondered many times why GM never installed a dead pedal on the left side of the floor board that has gotten commonplace, well, they did install one, on the right side! :grin2:
 
#553 ·
If I already get over 20 MPGs why would I think 18 is an improvement. The only way PC would be worth even $50 is if it could operate the pedal without my assistance, and even that would be questionable. What are we 28 pages into this thread and still not 1 happy customer can tell me what the PC does that my right foot cant.
 
#555 ·
As the ole' saying goes, "you can't have a battle of wits with a man that's unarmed." I'm done with this, I think there are people who just like to argue no matter what, there is nothing you can say or do that will make a difference. This ole' 61 year old guy is done with this thread and I am more than happy that there have been many who have found this product very beneficial for their truck. Good luck to those who would argue that this is a waste of money... May you enjoy your truck just as it is, you can stop ridiculing those of us who have bought it and are enjoying out newfound driving experience with our trucks. Bye...Bye....
 
#557 · (Edited)
I for one want to thank you for bringing this product to the attention of intelligent people. It has been a huge benefit to me and I am the only one I have to please. Chevy couldn't do it, but thanks to you and Don S. who referred me to this post, I have my problem solved.

A friend on another forum has as his signature: "Never argue with a moron they will drag you down to their level and beat you with experience".
 
#556 ·
I too am VERY sceptical. I'm sure I can use my foot to control my throttle. I'm thinking the PC just makes it feel more like a cable is opening the throttle plate? Straightens out the dip in the curve I guess you could say.
I am probably going to have to try it, I wish it was a bit cheaper though....Trust me I can afford it but one of the reasons I can is I don't like to waste money. Im on the fence right now. But if I do try it I will give an honest review and if I like it I won't consider it a waste. Maybe if someone promised me free return shipping that might push me over the edge. OR a little better price.

p.s. The problem I think that people don't like about the drivability is two things. The ECM controlling the throttle (to save fuel) AND the trans is programmed to stay in a high gear as long as possible (to save fuel) I believe some day soon the only way car makers are going to be able to meet MPG standards in go all electric...

Oh, and can anyone interpret the PC graph that was posted? I get the overall idea of it all but what exactly is Hz/s? And whats with the silly numbers that don't make sense? 250, 500, 10.000, 20.0000 Maybe "." should be "," ? shouldn't the numbers change as the throttle is pushed? maybe someone was in a big hurry when they made that thing? LOL I know it doesn't really matter how it works as long as it does.These are just things I want to know.
:nerd:
 
#558 ·
I

Oh, and can anyone interpret the PC graph that was posted? I get the overall idea of it all but what exactly is Hz/s? And whats with the silly numbers that don't make sense? 250, 500, 10.000, 20.0000 Maybe "." should be "," ? shouldn't the numbers change as the throttle is pushed? maybe someone was in a big hurry when they made that thing? LOL I know it doesn't really matter how it works as long as it does.These are just things I want to know.
:nerd:
Yeah, it should be a comma. This is how they display it in the EU, where this product originated.
 
#559 ·
If there truly was a known issue, why is it only a small percentage that have it? If it were a real issue it would be more widespread.


You mean the "known issue" that GM put out the PIP update to fix? Is the the elusive known issue you're talking about? I'm not going to count, but if you've read this entire thread then you know there's a ton of people that the PC works for and makes their truck drive like it should. You obviously don't have or want a PC, so why are you bad mouthing something that you have absolutely zero knowledge or experience with? I see some nerf bars, bumpers, rims, bull bars, etc. that people have put on their trucks on this forum that are ugly as sin...and you couldn't pay me to add to my truck. But you know what? I don't get on here and bad mouth them, or pretend to have knowledge about what they have chosen to add to their trucks when I know nothing about the product. And if you have a few of rear ending someone because you can't control your right foot (or think you can't control your right foot with the PC...again, when you know nothing about it) then maybe you should hang up the keys.

Go back under your bridge, troll. Nobody cares about your opinion that's based on ZERO knowledge of a product.
 
  • Like
Reactions: brobox and WDuke67
#560 ·
Well, I'm not going to join the argument that's going on. I'm just going to say that I love the Pedal Commander...... For those who are on the fence thinking about it, just get it. So like Forrest Gump " that's all I gotta say about that": Peace everyone!
 
#561 ·
I will most likely end up with one of these, depending on the new vendor's group buy pricing.

Looks like there was some heat going back and forth here, definitely is no need to ridicule anyone for picking one of these up. Frankly if you believe that any stock GM vehicle is factory-tuned for good drivability and shift characteristics you pretty much lose all credibility in an argument against something that improves it.
 
#567 ·
After reading all the bashing posts, I think the troll has made the point of how well the PC has worked for most of us. We no longer have to mash the peddle to make the truck go. There is nothing more aggravating in heavy traffic than to try to second guess how hard to hit the peddle to keep up with traffic. I no longer have to play the mash the peddle game and hope I win. With my truck it was constantly different, now it is constantly the same. That was worth every bit of $270. to me.
 
#570 ·
I love my PC. I read 24 pages of this before pulling the trigger. Everything was positive until the Troll showed up in this thread. If you're considering getting one just do it! It's hands down the best gadget I ever bought for one of my vehicles. It improves the overall drivability and makes my truck the way it should have been the day I bought it from GM. Don't try to wrap your head around how it works. A 14 day money back guaranty makes it a no risk situation. Get one and enjoy!
 
#571 ·
I also want to thank Chetter'S Z for starting this thread. I have now had my PC for several days and have been able to experience all types of driving conditions. I have pretty much settled on City +2. I did boost it up to +3 in some strong winds but reset it to +2 soon afterward. You just have to experience the difference the PC makes. It really brings this little 305 hp V6 to life. Thanks again for finding this great product.
 
#572 ·
My 2017 8 Spd. is pretty good but my 2016 Equinox with the 3.6 6 spd hangs more in the lower gears than I like and the MPG is worse than the Colorado that is not even broken in at 1500 miles. I have been waiting to see some MPG improvement posts from PC allowing the transmission shift into higher gear faster but it appears PC mainly helps with throttle response. Anyone here notice MPG improvement?

I also want to comment about vehicle difference with our experience with skid-loader controls that are electric over hydraulics. Because of all of the variables with temperatures and manufacturing tolerances of the hydraulic components (pumps & wheel motors, etc.), many of the equipment manufacturers struggle with consistency in how one machine handles compared to another. We can receive two brand new units built the same day and most likely they will behave differently. Manufacturers have written the software portion so adjustments can be made to get the unit closer to how the operator feels more comfortable to offset the issue just as PC has different modes and and variables within the modes to tweak. Basically equipment manufacturers have allowed operators access to adjust the electric over hydraulics, but car manufacturers I am guessing can't because of Government safety rules or liability issues I suppose. If one GM vehicle owner is happy with his vehicle's controls, that does not mean the next vehicle down the assembly line will respond the same way due to the internal variables.
 
#573 ·
I think people complaining that the PC is just tricking the ECM into thinking your pushing the pedal down further are over simplifying the problem. It's not a linear actuation. The stock throttle has you push the pedal 1/4, and you get 1/4 response. Push the pedal 1/2, and it's still only giving you ~ 1/4 throttle. Push it 3/4 and you get 3/4 (or more), which causes the tranny to drop 2 gears and RPMs to rise way too high. With the PC, you get a more predictable response relative to amount of pedal you give it, and you can tailor it to your desired responsiveness.
 
#574 ·
Good explanation. I totally agree. I have experienced the same... several times. You basically get nothing or all. I press the pedal and nothing. I press more and nothing. Keep pressing and the truck downshifts and takes off like a wild bronco. The flat spot in the throttle can be dangerous if you need to make a quick move. But then you press down more and it takes off in an unpredictable tear, which in itself can also be very dangerous.
 
#575 ·
Well all i can say is i've had mine about three weeks and i love it. Good luck to you all.
 
#577 ·
@JScottM
I know you have been on the fence for awhile. I hope you will give us your opinion of the PC after you have it connected in your truck. I will be looking forward to your opinion.

Speaking of mileage, I have kept my foot out of it on this tank as I have done all my testing and settled on City +1. At 1/2 a tank I am up to 16.9 on the DIC, but our snowbird traffic leaving may have a lot to do with that, still to soon to tell.
 
#578 ·
@JScottM

Speaking of mileage, I have kept my foot out of it on this tank as I have done all my testing and settled on City +1. At 1/2 a tank I am up to 16.9 on the DIC, but our snowbird traffic leaving may have a lot to do with that, still to soon to tell.
Yes! The RV parks are emptying out along 80. I saw/passed 5 RV's with their toads pulling out last night and this morning during the work commute.
 
  • Like
Reactions: brobox
#579 ·
I have read this whole thread, and others, and spoke to Jax via email, he was cool, but, I ended up going with the Vitesse motorsports throttle controller, it was $185 shipped. Took 5 minutes to install, and another 30 seconds to program the pedal position. Done. Has 7 settings on ECO, and 9 setting on sport. Also displays the throttle position while driving. I have a few friends that put it on their vettes, and love them. Warranty is a year longer on PC, but Vitesse has a 30 day return policy if you don't like it.
I have a 17 V6 4X4 CCSB all terrain canyon, I'm interested to see how it plays out in the next week or two to see if its really worth keeping. Big difference between eco and sport. BIG. but I'm not sure if I really NEED it!


Setting it too sensitive in the city is actually annoying. Jerks with the lightest press of the pedal. Eco 2 in the city, sport 3 on the highway.. seems to be working so far.
I am not a speed demon anymore.. When I want to go fast, Ill use the vette, not the truck, and that's on the track. However, a little more control is nice.
 
#580 ·
Hmm, interesting. This install looks a little bit more involved, if similar to the Camaro vid. Nice price though
For the 17, it is just more a fine tuning of a personal preference, since the pedal is already nicely responsive from the factory.
 
#584 ·
There are more settings on the PC. If I set the unit to ECO 7, its just very slow to respond, set it on Sport 9, and its instant. Im sure it works just like the pedal commander, and Ive heard nothing but great review on the PC, I just tried the Vitesse unit, and it works great, and its cheaper. On the highway, the sport setting is nice for passing. No lag. In the city, I have left it in ECO2 or 3. I don't need the passing while Im driving in bumper to bumper NYC/Brooklyn traffic. On the NJ turnpike, its nice to be able to pass quickly if needed. Although the truck throttle response was pretty good to begin with, this just refines it a little more.
ECO mode is definitely less responsive than stock.
 
#588 ·
J One thing I just thought of is using cruise. I hope it doesn't mess with the sensitivity of cruise control or do anything goofy with that. My guess is it wouldn't on mild settings said:
actually it improves cruise. without P.C. my truck would occasionally 'struggle' finding a gear to downshift to maintain set speed when going up a grade on the interstate
 
#592 ·
Oh gosh, then that means it improving the cruise operation in psychological? I think mine is here today. Maybe I can find out what else is psychological? :(
 
#590 ·
Installed mine yesterday and all I got was the -4 light flashing red. None of the buttons did anything. Engine responded to throttle pedal input so I'm assuming that the connectors must be connected. Waiting to hear back from Pedal Commander.
 

Attachments

Top