Frequently Asked Question

A Spitronics ECU (Engine Control Unit) is a fully programmable, standalone computer that manages all aspects of an engine’s operation, including fuel injection timing, ignition timing, idle control, boost management, and auxiliary outputs. Unlike factory ECUs, which are locked to factory parameters, the Spitronics ECU allows custom calibration for modified engines, engine swaps, or motorsport applications. It supports multiple fueling strategies such as batch, semi-sequential, and full sequential injection, and works with a variety of ignition systems, including distributor-based, wasted-spark, and coil-on-plug configurations. The ECU can also integrate with additional systems like nitrous, boost control, and launch control.

The Spitronics TCU (Transmission Control Unit) is a standalone gearbox controller that provides precise, programmable control over electronic automatic and semi-automatic transmissions. It manages shift timing, solenoid actuation, hydraulic line pressure, torque converter lock-up, and manual override functions such as paddle shifting. By replacing the OEM TCU, it enables the pairing of transmissions with non-original engines and allows complete customization of shift characteristics for both performance and economy driving.

The Spitronics TxW (Throttle-by-Wire) unit is an electronic throttle controller that replaces the mechanical cable system with an electronic interface. It processes accelerator pedal input via dual-track potentiometers and translates it into precise throttle body movements. This allows for programmable throttle curves, adjustable sensitivity, and integration with safety features like limp mode, traction control, and cruise control. The TxW system is essential when using modern drive-by-wire throttle bodies with older engines or standalone ECUs.

Spitronics products cater to performance enthusiasts, race teams, custom car builders, off-road specialists, and professional tuners. They are ideal for projects involving engine conversions, kit cars, drift cars, drag racing, off-road buggies, and replacing obsolete or restrictive OEM control units.

Legality depends on local regulations. In many regions, a standalone ECU is permitted if the vehicle still meets emissions and safety requirements. Some areas require emissions testing, so tuners must ensure their calibrations meet these standards. Motorsport-only builds have no such restrictions.

Not always. If you are only managing an engine, you may only require the ECU. Transmission swaps to electronic automatics may need a TCU. Drive-by-wire conversions or modern throttle bodies require the TxW. Many advanced builds use all three for complete powertrain control.

All Spitronics units are designed, manufactured, and tested in South Africa using automotive-grade components. They are assembled under strict quality control to ensure reliability in both daily use and competitive motorsport environments.

No, Spitronics is busy developing a Diesel version, but it will only be finished in the near future.

Spitronics products are unique in their own connectors and operation. Some of the signals can be interfaced with the standard units to maintain other functions, such as instruments.

All kits come with harnesses to connect to existing engine or transmission connectors. It does not include the engine or transmission connectors, as there are too many variations. You simply solder the harness onto your existing connectors. We do stock some of the connectors, but we will only quote them on enquiry. Then the ECU kits come with a 2.5 Bar Map sensor, which may be changed on request to a different type. Note that dealers pack kits according to your requirements, so it may not be the same as the basic kit setup in the main photo due to the variations in applications.

No, it is more like Wire & Play. Meaning that there is a certain amount of installation time, soldering, and wiring to be done before the unit can be switched on. Then you may need to tune it to your engine's parameters due to minor variation differences between engines.

These products were developed for the DIY market. But you do need a fair bit of knowledge and hand skills to complete this project. Most auto electrical people should be able to assist if you have difficulties. If you study the manual properly, you should be able to get your engine reasonably drivable with fair consumption and performance.

No, but we do put a startup MAP on the unit. These units are universal for different engines, and they cannot cater to all variations in sensor and driver setup, like injector sizes, fuel pressure, etc. In some units, that is engine-specific, we will load a tuned MAP on it for that type of engine. It should start and be drivable around 90%. But a fine setup will make it more efficient.

No, but it is under development with the Diesel development, which will be finished in the near future.

Throttle-by-wire is in the testing phase and sold using ECU software. The throttle-by-wire software will follow soon.

No, this is a standalone computer and does not require any other electronic units apart from its own units and the sensors on the engine. But with clever connections and sharing of the OEM signals, it can be used with the OEM ECU to add fuel or perform different tasks.

No, knock sensing may be developed in the near future.

No, the units do have loop control with the oxygen sensor and idle valve, but all tuning is done in open loop, and these systems will fine-tune in real time to optimize fuel mixtures. It is under development in the near future.