Kenne Bell help?

tharv71

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Just picked up a clean '99 rag top a few months ago. Came across a good deal on a used Kenne Bell 2.1 kit (mostly complete) from a guy who's LS swapping.

Trying to get install instructions from KB, but ZERO communication from them. Anyone have a set to sell? Would have to pay them anyway.

Also, I believe the kits came with a tuner of some sort? The guy didn't have it. What mfg tuner did they use? Any way to get a file, or other suggestions for a base tune so I can get it out of the garage once the install is done?

Thanks in advance!
 

scottydsntknow

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Install on a KB is pretty straightforward. Go download a manual for another similar one and you should be able to figure it out if you have basic mechanical knowledge and some experience with these cars. As for the tune file... get a good local or remote tuner to write you a tune, don't waste your time and effort with the KB tune.
 

SVTdreamin04

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Kenne bell doesn't seem to be the best when it comes to someone buying a used blower. They also claim their tunes are like the best you can do. Good luck with the install.


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tharv71

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I did read their tech article about tuning, and how their's were the best option. Certainly wouldn't mind trying it, but if I can't even get a phone call or email, I'm guessing it's not going to happen..... I'm sure I can reason my way through the install. Just thought it would be nice to have a reference. Might go quicker.

Anyone have an remote tune company they would recommend? VMP seems to have some good reviews?
 

SVTdreamin04

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I did read their tech article about tuning, and how their's were the best option. Certainly wouldn't mind trying it, but if I can't even get a phone call or email, I'm guessing it's not going to happen..... I'm sure I can reason my way through the install. Just thought it would be nice to have a reference. Might go quicker.

Anyone have an remote tune company they would recommend? VMP seems to have some good reviews?

Hit up 04sleeper on here.


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52merc

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I thought KB made only a handful of kits for the 99-01s, and the ones they did were pretty pricey. Good luck with the install. I had looked at getting one years ago when they were available, but just couldn't justify the cost at the time.
 

tharv71

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I'm guessing it was pretty limited production. There's jack for information available online. Even on the KB site there's nothing. Really lucked into finding the kit at a good price. Perfect for what I want. Was going to Eaton swap, but this looks easier....
 

scottydsntknow

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I know there was a 1.7 for the 99/01 4V... there was a 2.1 as well IIRC.

And no their tunes are not the best, whoever told you that was either a KB employee or full of shit or both. There is zero chance that a "one and done" tune is the "best" for every car that runs a KB blower...
 

TK1299

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Bro, Kenne bell’s customer service is horrid, ask me how I know. You have to keep calling and hope for the best, Or the instructions should be on the internet somewhere.
The install should be pretty straightforward up to the serpentine system. On fox mustangs you have to modify the accessory bracket, but I’m not sure about your car.
 

railroad

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I think the discussion for the installation and users was on the Corral site. Do not know if anything can be found.
The tune was on a chip/board that the user installed after opening the ECU.
 

SVTdreamin04

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I know there was a 1.7 for the 99/01 4V... there was a 2.1 as well IIRC.

And no their tunes are not the best, whoever told you that was either a KB employee or full of shit or both. There is zero chance that a "one and done" tune is the "best" for every car that runs a KB blower...

But..but!!!! They took the time to explain why their tunes are the best and that Dyno tuning after an install would not gain you anything! Lol

I always wanted a Kenne Bell Cobra...then I read of their customer service. I went VMP after that.


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Dirks9901

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Only thing i can add is a good local tuner will shit on KB’s “one size fits all” tune.


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tharv71

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Bro, Kenne bell’s customer service is horrid, ask me how I know. You have to keep calling and hope for the best, Or the instructions should be on the internet somewhere.
The install should be pretty straightforward up to the serpentine system. On fox mustangs you have to modify the accessory bracket, but I’m not sure about your car.

I've looked/searched the web for the instructions. No dice. KB doesn't even offer a PDF. Have to buy a paper copy for $20 plus shipping.

I've seen a few pictures of the finished product, and it looks fairly simple. Hoses are the main concern for me. Guess I'll have to play super sleuth and figure it out.
 

tharv71

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Only thing i can add is a good local tuner will shit on KB’s “one size fits all” tune.


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There's a shop not far from home. But without a base tune, I'm not sure it'll even run enough to drive it there....
 

tharv71

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But..but!!!! They took the time to explain why their tunes are the best and that Dyno tuning after an install would not gain you anything! Lol

I always wanted a Kenne Bell Cobra...then I read of their customer service. I went VMP after that.


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Have you had any tunes sent to you from VMP? Was kind of looking at them as an option?
 

SVTdreamin04

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There's a shop not far from home. But without a base tune, I'm not sure it'll even run enough to drive it there....

Contact @04sleeper on here. You won't be disappointed. You will need to have a wideband to datalog with.


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scottydsntknow

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Lol if someone with a blower DOESNT have a wideband they deserve to be punched in the dick. That's "required reading" if you want a blower or want any sort of "real" tune put on the car.
 

GodStang

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I have pdf instructions but it's for an 03-04 so not sure how helpful it would be. As far as customer services they are fantastic. I have had KBs for 15 years and have never had an issue. Sometimes I would have to call back a second time because line was busy but they are a small shop. Even when I did my 1 off swap that was not their kit, they would talk with me about it for a long time.

The reason they say their tune is the best is that their tune is 50 state legal and it is a very safe tune for their kits meaning you should not blow the engine. Best for Legality and engine life NOT best for Horsepower. I agree that you need a custom dyno tune not a canned tuned if you want the best power.

Their kits are fantastic and make great power and are a blast to drive.
 

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