New TCI TCU #377500 vs PCS

[cubes]

The new TCI Transmission Control Unit looks a lot like the Powertrain Control Solutions Universal Automatic Transmission Controller almost like a rebadged box. Did TCI buy out PCS and if not does the new TCI unit have the extensive features of the PCS. I am about to purchase a built 4R70W and prefer the PCS over the Baumantor(purpose built for Ford trans) but don't know enogh about the TCI, I would also like to adapt this to a shrifter and have someone experienced in trans computers tuning my chosen unit for a carb engine.

[cubes]

Just noticed streetfytr68 has experience with the TCI unit and tuned both, any opinions of one over the other ?

[cubes]

Ok found this answers most of mt potential questions but is the new TCI a reone PCS?

Thanks. We try. And we're having fun at this which helps a lot. Now that we've gotten into converters, we really feel like we can provide the best possible autmatic experience--bar none.

We sell mostly TCI computers because they offer the best manual mode--hands down. TCI offers manual mode features like automatic 1st gear restarts if you bring the vehicle to a full stop. That is handy to prevent you from leaving in high gear by accident. Also if you switch from auto to manual on the fly, the TCI controller starts out in whatever gear you were in while in automatic mode.

Other than that, the Powertrain Control Solutions piece is superior. But manual mode is true manual--just like a stick. You must have your brain turned on at all times.

All of the controllers work excellent...TCI, PCS, Baumann, Compushift. I try to match people with the best controller for their needs.

[Steve Chryssos]

Yup Comp cams now owns both TCI and PCS. The new Fast controller is plug and play system that might lack some of the PCS controller's full features. If you are happy with the PCS unit and willing to turn your brain on for the install and set up, feel free to stick with the PCS unit.

I have one TCI car in house and two PCS cars. The additional tuning capability of the PCS controller can literally be felt while driving. My car, with PCS, feels piano wire tight--unlike any other automatic.

[cubes]

Thanks Steve, that clears up things a bit, the only thing that is confusing is now that the #377500has taken over from the #377000/377001 and Fast/TCI/Comp Cams now owns PCS waht is the pecking order of there product line and how does the older TCI differ from the new TCI ?

[Steve Chryssos]

I'm still selling 377000's Haven't tried a 500 yet. Supposed to be somewhere right in between the 377000 and the PCS. I think PCs users might be disapointed by the 500 since they are used to more tuning capability. I said "might be disappointed". Haven't tried it yet.

[cubes]

Thanks, the 500 only lists GM 4l60e and 4l8e trans in the pdf manual would these be compatible with a ford 4r70w seeing as their is a 37001 for the ford boxes. I will be picking up my trans this weekend(well the shop in the US sendding it to me will, I am in Australia) so I will be looking at getting a computer to hook up to my shrifter I want to run ;-). What experience have you guys had with Ford controller like the Bauman TCS and the TCI 37001 TCU or even a PCS. A guy on the Modular Ford Forums has both the TCS and The PCS and like you have stated bfore the PCS is worlds ahead in tweakability in his opinion as well to the point where he is selling the Bauman. It has been said the Baumanator is a litle slower in processing and the lockup functions are not always where you want them, a simple and easy computer to get started but with limitations.
yia sou Ross.

[Steve Chryssos]

I have not personally tried a Baumann controller. I prefer not to critique any product that I have not tried. Heard good things, though. I would insist on PCS over TCI for a Ford application. Ford harnesses vary, so PCS can help you dial in the right harness for the right year trans.

[cubes]

Thanks, that's a fair call on the bauman, hope I didn't come across like I was putting words in your mouth or keyboard in my previous post. Althogh I would prefer the PCS o9ver the other boxes there are currently two TCI units and a Bauman for sale that I know of which might be a good deal on cutting my teeth on tuning and setting up a trans controller, I wil pm or email directly for more direct product info , thanks again.

[Steve Chryssos]

On the TCI, just double check that the main trans plug matches your case. If you get that right then the TCI will work fine for you. I offer lifetime technical support on the TCI controllers--setup and tuning--so don't let the software scare you. You will be a pro in 20 minutes. It's nothing like programming fuel injection. Much easier.