I'm not sure if this is the correct forum, if not I apologize. I'm swapping an LQ4/T56 into my '84 Trans Am and don't want to use the stock guages. I will get an aftermarket guage set a few months after it is up and running, but I had an idea until then. Could I use basic tuning software in place of guages to monitor engine parameters? If so, which would be the best to start out with (i.e. cheapest) that can be upgraded later on for more in depth tuning capabilities?

 

Both HPTuners and EFILive have fully functional and editable guage screens but I'm not sure if that's what you are looking for?

 

I am looking for something like that, but is there a cheaper version to start out with that can be upgraded to the fully functional version later on?

 

HPT has 2 'models' but its really worth just getting the "pro" version to begin with. Also without a laptop mount it would be a little difficult to use the gauges as you drive.

 

You can buy a EFILive V1 scan only for $250 that will let you do every thing but flash in new tunes (read, scan, ect). You can down load the software for free and see what all it can do and what it looks like. There is sample dash pages, and they are fully customizable for the gauges you want and the layout. You can alway upgrade it to scan and tune down the road. Feel free to ask my any questions about it.

http://www.efilive.com/download.aspx