# The Torque Lab - Full Reference

> The Torque Lab is a specialist dyno tuning and ECU remapping workshop based at 32 Ellis Street, Frankton, Hamilton 3204, New Zealand. We share a facility with Gas Pedal Fabrication, combining tuning and custom fabrication under one roof. Open Monday to Friday, 7am to 4:30pm.

## About

The Torque Lab is Hamilton's specialist dyno tuning and ECU remapping workshop. Founded by Dayne Tyler, the workshop has 30+ years of combined experience and has tuned over 1,200 vehicles. We are the #1 dyno facility in the Waikato region. We tune Japanese imports, European cars (BMW, Audi, VW, Mercedes), diesel utes and 4WDs, classic cars, agricultural and marine engines, and forced induction vehicles.

### Team

- **Dayne Tyler** - Founder
- **Chris** - Lead Tuner
- **Dion** - Approved ECU Installer

### Facility

- Mainline hub dyno (connects to wheel hubs - no tyre slip, accurate and repeatable results)
- Full ECU installation and wiring workshop
- Custom fabrication through Gas Pedal Fabrication (same facility)
- Real-time data logging with wideband O2, EGT, and knock sensors

## Services

### Dyno Tuning
Custom tuning on our Mainline hub dyno - not a generic file remap. Every vehicle is different: engine wear, modifications, fuel quality, and altitude all affect performance. A custom dyno tune accounts for all of these variables. We tune Skylines, Silvias, Supras, RX-7s, classic Aussie muscle, and everything in between.

**Includes:**
- Full power runs with real-time data logging
- Air/fuel ratio, ignition timing, and boost optimisation
- Before and after dyno sheets for every tune
- Safe, conservative base maps with progressive tuning

**Pricing:** Standard naturally aspirated tune from ~$500-$700 NZD. Turbo/forced induction $800-$1,500+. Full standalone ECU tunes vary by complexity. Contact for an accurate quote.

### ECU Tuning & Remapping
Haltech, Link ECU, and HP Tuners - installed, wired, and tuned. Whether upgrading to a standalone ECU or remapping a factory unit, we handle installation, wiring, configuration, and custom calibration on the dyno. Japanese imports are a specialty - SR20, RB, 2JZ, rotary.

**ECU brands:** Haltech (Elite and Sport series), Link ECU (G4X, Thunder, Fury), HP Tuners (VCM Suite with MPVI3), MoTeC.

**Includes:**
- Standalone ECU installation and wiring
- Factory ECU remapping via OBD or bench flash
- Full sensor calibration and diagnostics
- Idle, cruise, and full-load map optimisation

**Timeframe:** Straightforward remap 2-4 hours. Standalone ECU tunes can take a full day. Full builds with new ECU installation may span multiple days.

### Diesel Tuning
Power, torque, and economy across the full range of diesel vehicles. We tune utes (Ranger, Hilux, Navara, D-Max, Amarok, BT-50, Triton), SUVs and 4WDs (Prado, Fortuner, Patrol, Pajero, MU-X), European diesels (BMW, Audi, VW, Mercedes), light commercial vehicles (Hiace, Transit, Sprinter), and agricultural and marine diesel engines. All tunes are DPF-safe and emissions compliant.

**Includes:**
- Diesel ECU remapping for power, torque, and economy
- DPF-safe tuning that maintains emissions compliance
- Utes, 4WDs, SUVs, light commercial, agricultural, and marine
- European diesel platforms - BMW, Audi, VW, Mercedes
- Before and after dyno sheets for every tune

**Pricing:** Diesel ECU remap $600-$1,200 NZD. Performance diesel tune $1,000-$1,800. Agricultural and marine POA.

#### Diesel Tuning FAQs
- **What is diesel tuning?** Modifying ECU calibration to optimise fuel delivery, injection timing, boost pressure, and torque limits. More power, torque, throttle response, and improved economy.
- **Is diesel remapping safe?** Yes when done on a dyno with real-time monitoring of EGT, boost, AFR, and rail pressure. A dyno-calibrated remap is significantly safer than a generic mail-order tune.
- **Will a diesel remap void my warranty?** A remap modifies the factory calibration which the dealer can detect. We can return to stock at any time. Many customers tune outside factory warranty.
- **Remap vs tuning box?** A remap directly modifies the factory ECU calibration for precise control. A tuning box intercepts and tricks sensor signals - less precise, more potential issues.
- **Are your diesel tunes DPF-safe?** Yes. All tunes are DPF-safe and emissions compliant. We do not remove, bypass, or disable DPF, EGR, or any emissions equipment. WoF compliant.
- **How much power from a diesel tune?** Typical gains on utes (Ranger, Hilux, Navara, D-Max): 20-30% more power, 25-35% more torque. European diesels often see larger gains.
- **Will a diesel remap improve fuel economy?** In most cases yes - 5-15% improvement under normal driving through optimised injection timing and fuelling efficiency.
- **Can you tune for towing?** Yes, towing is one of the most common reasons for a diesel remap. More low-end torque, earlier turbo spool, more confidence under load.
- **How much does diesel tuning cost?** Standard diesel ECU remap $600-$1,200 NZD. Performance diesel tune $1,000-$1,800. Agricultural and marine POA. Before-and-after dyno sheets included.

[Read more](https://thetorquelab.co.nz/diesel-tuning-nz)

### European Car Tuning
Factory ECU remapping for the full European range - BMW, Audi, Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, Skoda, MINI, and more. Both turbo petrol and diesel platforms. European factory ECUs are heavily detuned for global markets, and a custom remap unlocks significant gains in power, torque, and throttle response.

**Brands:** BMW (1/2/3/4/5 Series, M Sport, X range), Audi (A3/A4/A5/A6, S and RS range), Volkswagen (Golf GTI/R, Polo GTI, Tiguan, Amarok), Mercedes-Benz (A/C/E Class, AMG, GLC), Volvo, Skoda, MINI Cooper S/JCW.

**Includes:**
- Factory ECU remapping via OBD or bench flash
- Turbo petrol and diesel platforms
- Stage 1 and Stage 2 tunes available
- Before and after dyno sheets for every tune

**Pricing:** Factory ECU remap $600-$1,200 NZD. Performance Stage 1 $800-$1,500. Diesel remap $600-$1,200.

#### European Car Tuning FAQs
- **Can you tune European cars?** Yes - factory ECU remapping for BMW, Audi, VW, Mercedes, Volvo, Skoda, SEAT, MINI, and more. Over 2,800 vehicle applications. Turbo petrol and diesel.
- **How does European ECU remapping work?** We read the factory calibration, modify fuel maps, ignition timing, boost targets, and torque limiters, then write the optimised calibration back to the factory ECU. No aftermarket boxes.
- **Is remapping safe for European cars?** Yes. European engines are built to handle significantly more output than the factory calibration allows. We tune conservatively within proven safe limits.
- **How much power will my European car gain?** Turbo petrol engines typically 15-30% more power and torque. Turbo diesel 20-35% more torque. Golf GTI: 40-55 kW. Golf R: 50-65 kW.
- **Do you tune diesel European cars?** Yes. BMW 20d/30d, VW/Audi TDI, Mercedes CDI, Volvo D4/D5. DPF-safe calibrations maintaining emissions functionality.
- **Can you remap a Golf GTI or Golf R?** Yes, among our most popular European tunes. EA888 2.0 TSI responds very well. GTI: 40-55 kW gain. Golf R: 50-65 kW gain.
- **How long does a European ECU remap take?** Typically 2-4 hours including baseline dyno run, ECU read, calibration, write, and verification. Bench flash platforms may take slightly longer.
- **What about NZ fuel quality?** NZ 98 octane fuel is high quality and well-suited to performance tuning. Many European factory calibrations are conservative for lower-grade global fuel.

[Read more](https://thetorquelab.co.nz/european-car-tuning)

### Custom Fabrication (via Gas Pedal Fabrication)
Intake manifolds, intercooler piping, exhaust systems - built in-house through our sister workshop Gas Pedal Fabrication. Parts designed around the tune, not the other way around.

**Includes:**
- Custom intake manifold fabrication
- Intercooler piping and turbo plumbing
- Exhaust manifolds and full exhaust systems
- Fuel system upgrades and installation

### Diagnostics & Data Logging
Not every job needs a tune. Dyno runs for baseline measurements, pre-purchase inspections, and fault diagnosis using OEM and aftermarket scan tools.

**Includes:**
- Baseline dyno runs and power measurements
- Data logging with wideband O2, EGT, and knock sensors
- Fault code scanning and live data analysis
- Pre and post-modification comparison runs

## Custom Engine Builds

Custom engines built on site - from mild street engines to full race builds. Everything assembled in-house and dyno-tested before it leaves.

### Build Types

1. **Street Engines** - Reliable power for daily-driven and weekend cars. Forged internals, performance cams, head work, balancing and blueprinting.
2. **Race Engines** - Full race builds for drag, circuit, and time attack. Billet components, dry sump, custom engine management.
3. **Engine Rebuilds** - Factory-spec rebuilds with quality parts. OEM tolerances, new bearings, rings, gaskets, timing components.
4. **Turbo & Forced Induction** - Bottom-end builds for boost. Forged pistons and rods, head gasket and stud upgrades, matched to turbo sizing and ECU tuning.

**Pricing:** Mild street freshen-up from ~$3,000-$5,000 NZD. Full forged bottom-end for turbo $8,000-$15,000+. Full race engines vary by spec. Contact for accurate quote.

## Trusted Partners & Suppliers

- Haltech
- Link ECU
- HP Tuners
- Mainline Dyno
- Aeroflow
- PCM Tech
- Alt Tune
- Partsman
- Gas Pedal Fabrication

## FAQs

### General
- **Where is The Torque Lab located?** 32 Ellis Street, Frankton, Hamilton 3204, NZ. Shared facility with Gas Pedal Fabrication.
- **What vehicles do you tune?** Cars, utes, diesels, classics, European - Japanese imports, Aussie muscle, American V8s, BMW, Audi, VW, Mercedes, agricultural, marine, carburated and fuel-injected.
- **Do I need to book in advance?** Yes - dyno schedule fills up quickly. Call 0800 427 733 or use the contact form.
- **What's the difference between a dyno tune and a remap?** A remap modifies ECU software. A dyno tune calibrates that software under real-world load on a dynamometer.
- **Can you tune turbocharged vehicles?** Yes - factory turbo remaps and custom standalone ECU tunes on built engines.
- **Do you offer custom engine builds?** Yes - from mild street to full race, assembled and dyno-tested in-house.

### Services
- **How much does dyno tuning cost in NZ?** NA from ~$500-$700. Turbo/forced induction $800-$1,500+. Includes before/after dyno sheets.
- **What is the difference between ECU tuning and remapping?** Remapping = modifying factory ECU calibration data. ECU tuning = broader term including standalone ECU installations.
- **What is a hub dyno and why does it matter?** Connects to wheel hubs instead of rollers - no tyre slip, more accurate, can properly tune AWD/4WD.
- **Do I need a tune after installing an exhaust or intake?** Yes - any airflow change means the factory calibration is no longer optimal.
- **What ECU brands do you work with?** Haltech, Link ECU, HP Tuners, MoTeC. Factory remapping for most Japanese, Australian, American platforms.
- **How long does a dyno tune take?** Remap 2-4 hours. Standalone full day. Full builds with new ECU multiple days.
- **Is dyno tuning safe?** Yes when done properly - conservative base maps, progressive tuning, real-time monitoring of knock, AFR, EGT, boost.
- **Can you tune diesel vehicles?** Yes - utes (Ranger, Hilux, Navara, D-Max, Amarok), SUVs (Prado, Fortuner, Patrol), European diesels (BMW, Audi, VW, Mercedes), light commercial, agricultural, and marine. DPF-safe, emissions compliant.
- **Can you tune European cars?** Yes - factory ECU remapping for BMW, Audi, VW, Mercedes, Volvo, Skoda, MINI, and more. Turbo petrol and diesel. Every remap verified on the dyno.

### Engine Builds
- **How much does a custom engine build cost?** Street freshen-up from ~$3,000-$5,000. Forged turbo build $8,000-$15,000+. Race engines vary by spec.
- **How long does an engine build take?** 2-6 weeks depending on parts availability and complexity.
- **Do you build engines for any make and model?** Yes - Japanese, Australian, American, European. If we can source the parts, we can build it.
- **Can you supply parts, or do I need to bring my own?** We source and supply all parts. We select components that work together.
- **Do you dyno-test every engine build?** Yes - every build is run on the Mainline dyno before handover.
- **Can you build an engine for a project that's already partially assembled?** Yes - we'll assess what's done and work from there.

## ECU Tuning & Remapping NZ

Dedicated service page covering ECU tuning and remapping in New Zealand. Factory ECU remaps (OBD and bench flash) and standalone ECU installations (Haltech, Link ECU, HP Tuners, MoTeC). Covers Japanese, European (BMW, Audi, VW, Mercedes), diesel, Australian, American, and classic vehicles. Pricing ($500-$900 for factory remap, $800-$2,000+ for standalone, $600-$1,200 for diesel). Every tune is custom-built on a Mainline hub dyno with before-and-after dyno sheets.

### ECU Tuning FAQs
- **What is ECU tuning?** Modifying the software inside your vehicle's Engine Control Unit to optimise fuel delivery, ignition timing, boost pressure, rev limits, and other parameters. Every tune at The Torque Lab is custom-built on the Mainline hub dyno.
- **What is the difference between ECU remapping and ECU tuning?** Remapping modifies the calibration data inside a factory ECU. ECU tuning is broader and includes standalone ECU installations (Haltech, Link ECU).
- **How much does ECU tuning cost in NZ?** Factory ECU remap $500-$900 NZD. Standalone ECU installation and tuning (Haltech, Link, MoTeC) $800-$2,000+. Every tune includes before-and-after dyno sheets.
- **What is ECU chip tuning?** Originally referred to replacing the EPROM chip inside an older ECU. Modern ECU tuning is done via software through the OBD port or bench flash. We handle both modern flash tuning and older chip-based systems.
- **Is ECU remapping safe for my engine?** Yes, when done properly on a dyno with conservative base maps, progressive tuning, and real-time monitoring of knock, air/fuel ratios, exhaust gas temperatures, and boost pressure.
- **Do you offer ECU flashing and bench flashing?** Yes. OBD port flashing where supported, and bench flashing for platforms that require it (common on newer diesel platforms and some Japanese factory ECUs).
- **Can you tune a piggyback ECU?** We can, but recommend either a proper factory remap or a full standalone ECU instead. Piggyback units intercept sensor signals which is a compromise.
- **Where are you located?** 32 Ellis Street, Frankton, Hamilton 3204, NZ. We serve Auckland (1.5 hours), Tauranga (1.5 hours), Rotorua (1.5 hours), and the wider Waikato.

[Read more](https://thetorquelab.co.nz/ecu-tuning-nz)

## Regional Pages

The Torque Lab serves customers from across the North Island. While based in Hamilton, we attract vehicles from Auckland, Tauranga, the wider Waikato, and Rotorua.

- [Dyno Tuning Hamilton](https://thetorquelab.co.nz/dyno-tuning-hamilton): Hamilton's dedicated dyno tuning and ECU remapping facility at 32 Ellis Street, Frankton
- [Dyno Tuning Auckland](https://thetorquelab.co.nz/dyno-tuning-auckland): Why Auckland enthusiasts drive 1.5 hours for a proper hub dyno tune
- [Dyno Tuning Tauranga](https://thetorquelab.co.nz/dyno-tuning-tauranga): Serving Tauranga, Mount Maunganui, and the wider Bay of Plenty
- [Dyno Tuning Waikato](https://thetorquelab.co.nz/dyno-tuning-waikato): Covering Cambridge, Te Awamutu, Morrinsville, Huntly, Matamata, Thames, and Tokoroa
- [Dyno Tuning Rotorua](https://thetorquelab.co.nz/dyno-tuning-rotorua): Central North Island tuning for Rotorua, Taupo, and surrounding areas

## Blog

### What Is Dyno Tuning? A Complete Guide
Covers what dyno tuning is, how the process works on our Mainline hub dyno, the difference between a custom dyno tune and a generic file remap, what vehicles can be tuned, and pricing overview. Standard NA tune $500-$700, turbo $800-$1,500+. Hub dyno connects to wheel hubs for accurate results.
- **Is dyno tuning safe?** Yes when done properly with conservative base maps, progressive tuning, and real-time monitoring of knock, AFR, and temperatures.
- **How long does a dyno tune take?** Factory ECU remap 2-4 hours. Standalone full day. Full builds with new ECU multiple days.
- **Do I need a tune after modifications?** Yes - any airflow change (exhaust, intake, turbo) changes how the engine runs.
[Read more](https://thetorquelab.co.nz/blog/what-is-dyno-tuning)

### How Much Does Dyno Tuning Cost in NZ?
Transparent pricing breakdown: NA tunes $500-$700, turbo/supercharged $800-$1,500+, standalone ECU $800-$2,000+, diesel $600-$1,200. What's included and what affects the price.
[Read more](https://thetorquelab.co.nz/blog/dyno-tuning-cost-nz)

### ECU Tuning vs Remapping: What's the Difference?
Explains the difference between factory ECU remapping (modifying existing calibration) and standalone ECU tuning (replacing the factory engine management). When to choose each approach.
[Read more](https://thetorquelab.co.nz/blog/ecu-tuning-vs-remapping)

### Dyno Tuning Carburated Engines
How we tune Weber DCOE, Holley, SU, and Stromberg carburettors on the dyno using wideband O2 data. Covers the process from baseline runs to final verification.
[Read more](https://thetorquelab.co.nz/blog/tuning-carburated-engines)

### DPF Delete vs Diesel Remap in NZ
Legal implications of DPF deletion in New Zealand, what a DPF-safe diesel remap delivers (15-30% torque, 10-20% power, 5-15% economy), and why a compliant remap is the smarter choice. As of 2024, removing or tampering with emissions equipment is illegal under NZ Land Transport Rules. Vehicles with deleted DPFs can fail WoF and attract fines.
- **Is a DPF delete legal in NZ?** No. Removing or tampering with emissions equipment is illegal. Vehicles with deleted DPFs can fail WoF inspections and attract fines.
- **Will a diesel remap damage my DPF?** Not when done correctly. A DPF-safe remap is calibrated to work within the DPF's regeneration parameters.
- **How much does a diesel remap cost?** $600-$1,200 NZD depending on vehicle and platform. Every tune includes before-and-after dyno sheets.
- **Can you fix a blocked DPF?** We diagnose DPF issues and advise on the best course - forced regeneration, cleaning, or replacement. A remap can help prevent future DPF problems.
[Read more](https://thetorquelab.co.nz/blog/dpf-delete-vs-diesel-remap-nz)

### Weber DCOE Carburettor Tuning Guide
Practical guide covering Weber DCOE fuel circuits, main jet selection, emulsion tubes and air correctors, idle and progression tuning, and accelerator pump calibration.
[Read more](https://thetorquelab.co.nz/blog/weber-carburettor-tuning-guide)

### Engine Rebuild Cost in NZ
Pricing guide: basic freshen-up $3,000-$5,000, performance street build $5,000-$10,000, full forged turbo build $8,000-$15,000+, race engines $15,000-$30,000+. Standard rebuild includes complete disassembly, crack testing, block and head machining, new bearings/gaskets/seals, reassembly, run-in, and dyno testing. Cost depends on engine type, parts quality, machining requirements, performance level, and parts availability.
- **How long does an engine rebuild take?** Straightforward rebuild 2-3 weeks. Full custom builds 4-8 weeks depending on parts.
- **Do you supply parts?** We source quality components at competitive prices. We also work with parts customers bring in.
- **Do you dyno test every rebuild?** Yes. Every engine is installed and dyno-tested on our Mainline hub dyno before handover.
- **Can you rebuild rotary engines?** Yes - 13B and 20B rotary engines. Street port to bridge port race engines.
[Read more](https://thetorquelab.co.nz/blog/engine-rebuild-cost-nz)

### Ford Ranger Tuning in NZ
Guide for NZ Ranger owners. Covers 3.2 TDCI and 2.0 Bi-Turbo models. Expected gains 20-40kW power, 60-100Nm torque. DPF-safe tuning. Process takes 3-4 hours. Supporting mods: performance exhaust, high-flow intake, transmission tune, intercooler upgrade.
- **Will tuning void the warranty?** A tune can affect powertrain warranty claims. Many Ranger owners tune after warranty period.
- **Can you tune the 2.0 Bi-Turbo?** Yes, both 3.2 TDCI and 2.0 Bi-Turbo. The Bi-Turbo responds particularly well with strong torque gains.
- **How much power gain?** 3.2: 20-30kW and 60-80Nm. 2.0 Bi-Turbo: 25-40kW and 80-100Nm.
- **Is the tune DPF-safe?** Yes. All calibrated to work within DPF regeneration parameters. Emissions compliant.
[Read more](https://thetorquelab.co.nz/blog/ford-ranger-tuning-nz)

### Now Tuning Diesel & European Cars
Announcement: The Torque Lab now offers diesel ECU remapping and European car tuning. Covers utes, 4WDs, SUVs, BMW, Audi, VW, Mercedes, agricultural, and marine. Over 2,800 vehicle applications. DPF-safe, dyno-verified. ECU file calibration service for vehicles that can't run on a dyno.
[Read more](https://thetorquelab.co.nz/blog/now-tuning-diesel-european-cars)

### Toyota Hilux Tuning in NZ
ECU remap guide for the Toyota Hilux. Covers KUN series (2005-2015, 3.0L 1KD-FTV), GUN series (2015-2024, 2.8L 1GD-FTV), and GD series (2024+). Expected gains 15-25 kW power, 50-80 Nm torque. DPF-safe, emissions compliant. Process takes 3-4 hours. Supporting mods: performance exhaust, high-flow intake, intercooler upgrade.
- **How much to tune a Hilux?** $600-$1,000 NZD depending on model. Every tune includes before-and-after dyno sheets.
- **Will tuning void the warranty?** A remap modifies factory calibration which Toyota can detect. Many owners tune after warranty period.
- **Is the Hilux tune DPF-safe?** Yes. All DPF, EGR, and emissions equipment remain fully functional. Vehicle continues to pass WoF.
- **Can you tune for towing?** Yes - towing improvement is the most common reason. More low-end torque, earlier turbo spool.
[Read more](https://thetorquelab.co.nz/blog/toyota-hilux-tuning-nz)

### 4WD Tuning in NZ
Guide to 4WD ECU tuning in New Zealand. Diesel remaps for utes, SUVs, and 4x4s. ECU file calibration for vehicles that can't run on a dyno. DPF-safe, emissions compliant. Covers Ranger, Hilux, Navara, D-Max, Prado, Fortuner, Pajero Sport, Patrol, and European 4WDs.
[Read more](https://thetorquelab.co.nz/blog/4wd-tuning-nz)

### Classic Car Tuning in NZ
Dyno tuning for classic cars. Carburated and fuel-injected - Holdens, Falcons, British cars, American V8s, and Japanese imports. Weber DCOE, Holley, SU carburettor tuning with wideband O2 data. Hub dyno eliminates tyre slip on narrow classic tyres. Carb tune: $500-$900 NZD. EFI/standalone: $800-$1,500+.
- **Can you dyno tune a carburated car?** Yes - classic carburettor tuning is a regular part of our schedule. Weber DCOE, Holley, SU, Stromberg, Mikuni, and others.
- **Is a hub dyno safe for classics?** Yes - safer than roller dynos. No risk of tyre slip or vehicle jumping off. Better for narrow or non-standard tyres.
- **How much does classic car tuning cost?** Single carb $500-$700. Multiple carbs $600-$900. EFI/standalone $800-$1,500+.
- **Do you tune LS-swapped classics?** Yes. LS swaps with aftermarket or factory GM ECU, plus RB, SR20, 2JZ, Barra swaps in classic chassis.
[Read more](https://thetorquelab.co.nz/blog/classic-car-tuning-nz)

## Contact

- **Phone:** 0800 427 733
- **Email:** sales@gaspedalfab.co.nz
- **Address:** 32 Ellis Street, Frankton, Hamilton 3204, New Zealand
- **Hours:** Monday-Friday 7:00am-4:30pm, Saturday-Sunday closed
- **Facebook:** https://www.facebook.com/p/The-Torque-Lab-61579277443003/
- **Instagram:** https://www.instagram.com/thetorquelab2025/