First experience with VEMS, planning the installation on a Fiat/Lancia 5 cyl. engine.
Since I have limited experience with engine management the timeframe for this project is pretty much unlimited.
Step one is to figure out how the OEM ECU triggers and if the same triggers can be used with VEMS. The stock ECU is a Bosch Motronic M 2.10 using 5 coil-on-plug's. Firing order is 1-2-4-5-3. TDC & RPM sensor use a 58+2 (60-2) missing tooth trigger wheel, probably a VR sensor?? The injection timing sensor is a Hall effect sensor mounted at the exhaust camshaft.
In the workshop manual for the engine all sensors used by the stock ECU is listed, so I reckon it's possible to dig out some information regarding the sensors through that. Almost all electronics in the car is Bosch components.
The engine is turbocharged and have a simple hydralic/electric controlled variable valve timing system. 5 high impedance Bosch injectors rated at 330cc/m at 3 bar fuel pressure.
Step two is to make up a complete list of everything I will need in terms of hardware.
As I've understood it I will need 5 logic-level (TTL??) outputs for the COP setup. Further more I need to drive 5 injectors, high impedance for starters. Then a couple of outputs for idle-, VVT and fuelpump control.
Extras, that would be nice to have is WB02 and EGT inputs, along with an external 3 bar MAP sensor. I do not want to be on the limit of what the MAP sensor can take in terms of boost pressure. Since I have two OEM knock sensors, it would be great to atleast have the ability to use them. (Even though figuring out the frequencies are not the first thing I'll do.) Bonus would be to make it all work with the OEM immobilizer.
The boost pressure itself will not be controlled by the VEMS, but an external electronic boost controller.
Since the plan is, in my eyes, quite extensive I will allow plenty of time for this install, as I am quite inexperienced with this kind of work. But I do know how to handle a soldering iron and computer hardware is my game. My programming abilites are a bit short, but not non-existant. So I hope it'll all work out for the best.
As I've read about both Audi and Volvo 5 cyl. engines running VEMS it should also be possible on an italian stallion. ;-)