BMWLink - BMW E36 M50TUB25

Product Warranty Statement

LINK ENGINE MANAGEMENT LTD – LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY

All Engine Control Units (ECUs) manufactured or distributed by Link Engine Management Ltd are subject
to the following LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTIES, and no others.

Link Engine Management Ltd warrants only to the original purchaser of the ECU, for the lifetime of the
ECU, (subject to the limitations set out below), that the ECU shall be free from defects of materials and
workmanship in the manufacturing process. This warranty ceases to apply and does not apply to ECUs that
have not been manufactured or distributed by Link Engine Management Ltd for a period of greater than
one year.

An ECU claimed to be defective must be returned to the place of purchase. Link Engine Management Ltd,
at its sole option, may replace the defective ECU with a comparable new ECU or repair the defective ECU.

This limited lifetime warranty is not transferable and does not apply to any ECU not properly installed or
properly used by the purchaser or end user, or to any ECU damaged or impaired by external forces. The
above warranties are the full extent of the warranties available on the ECU. Link Engine Management Ltd
has no liability to the original purchaser or any other person for any loss, injury or damage to persons or
property resulting from the use of the ECU or any failure of or defect in the ECU whether by general,
special, direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, exemplary, punitive, or any other damages of any kind or
nature whatsoever. Link Engine Management Ltd specifically disclaims and disavows all other warranties,
express or implied, including, without limitation, all warranties of fitness for a particular purpose, warranties
of description, warranties of merchantability, trade usage or warranties of trade usage.

For off-road use only, not intended for highway vehicles. This ECU contains a user-configurable software
programme, which is updated by Link Engine Management Ltd from time to time. The user must ensure the
current correct version of this programme is downloaded from the website of Link Engine Management Ltd
and installed in the ECU prior to use. This limited lifetime warranty does not apply where the ECU has
been installed with the incorrect version of the software programme. The user is solely responsible for the
setup and testing of all user-configurable features.

Link Engine Management Ltd License Agreement

The software programme in this ECU is licensed not sold. Link Engine Management Ltd grants the user a
license for the programme only in the country where the programme was acquired. No other rights are
granted under this license and the programme may only be used on one machine at a time. If the
programme is transferred a copy of this license and all other documentation must be transferred at the
same time. The license may be terminated by the user at any time. Link Engine Management Ltd may
terminate the licence if the user fails to comply with the terms and conditions of this license. In either event
the copy of the programme must be destroyed.
 Contents 3

Table of Contents
Part I Introduction 5
1 Safety ...................................................................................................................................
Notice 5
2 Disclaimer
................................................................................................................................... 5
3 Support
...................................................................................................................................
Options 5

Part II Pre-Installation 6
1 Internal
...................................................................................................................................
Ignitor 6
BMWLink .......................................................................................................................................................... 6

Part III Installation 7

1 ECU Handling
...................................................................................................................................
Procedures 7
2 Fitting...................................................................................................................................
the ECU 7
BMWLink .......................................................................................................................................................... 7

Part IV Additional Sensors 9

1 MAP Sensor
................................................................................................................................... 9
BMWLink .......................................................................................................................................................... 9
2 IAT Sensor
................................................................................................................................... 9
BMWLink .......................................................................................................................................................... 9
3 Expansion
...................................................................................................................................
Connector 9
BMWLink .......................................................................................................................................................... 10

Part V PC Tuning 11
1 Installing
...................................................................................................................................
PCLink 11
2 Communicating
...................................................................................................................................
With Your ECU 11

Part VI Pre-Start Configuration 12

1 Firmware
...................................................................................................................................
Version 12
2 Base Configuration
................................................................................................................................... 12
3 MAP ...................................................................................................................................
Sensor Calibration 12
4 TPS Calibration
................................................................................................................................... 12
5 IAT Sensor
...................................................................................................................................
Selection 13
6 Input ...................................................................................................................................
and Output Setup 13
7 Trigger
...................................................................................................................................
Calibration 13

Part VII First Time Startup 15

1 Final ...................................................................................................................................
Checks 15
2 Essential
...................................................................................................................................
Tuning Adjustments 16

Part VIII Pin Functions 17

1 BMWLink
................................................................................................................................... 17

Part IX Pinouts 18
1 BMWLink
................................................................................................................................... 18

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 4 PlugIn Installation Manual

Part X CAN Information 20

1 BMWLink
................................................................................................................................... 20

Part XI Known Issues 21

1 BMWLink
................................................................................................................................... 21

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 Introduction 5

1 Introduction
Thank you for purchasing your Link Plug-In Engine Control Unit (ECU), an advanced, fully programmable
microprocessor controlled Engine Management System.
G4+ software employs high resolution fuel and ignition tables with configurable load and RPM centres. When
coupled with up to six dimensional fuel and ignition mapping, barometric pressure compensation and intake
air temperature correction this gives an unprecedented level of tuning accuracy. All Link G4+ ECUs are in-
field upgradeable, there is no need to return the unit for software updates.
All Link G4+ Plug-In Engine Management Systems are designed with flexibility and ease of installation in
mind. Link Plug-In systems are designed to replace the circuit board inside the factory ECU enclosure.
This provides an invisible install that requires minimal modification to vehicle wiring and ECU mounting.
Installing and tuning any after market engine management system is not to be taken lightly. G4+ ECUs give
the tuner the control & flexibility that only top after-market engine management systems in the world can
provide. While every effort has been made to keep G4+ ECUs as user friendly as possible, it should be
recognised that added features bring added complexity.
The complete setup of your ECU can be divided into two important tasks:
1. This manual covers the installation of your G4+ ECU. While it is not strictly essential that this work is
performed by an automotive electrician, the knowledge and tools available to these professionals makes it
highly recommended. Regardless of who does the installation, it is of utmost importance that instructions
provided in this manual are followed exactly throughout the installation.
2. Once the G4+ ECU has been installed it will need to be tuned using a laptop computer with PCLink
software. Information on the configuration and tuning of the G4+ ECU is detailed in the online help section
of PCLink. G4+ ECUs are shipped pre-loaded with a base configuration that should be close enough to
get most engines running after a few application specific adjustments have been made. While hearing the
engine running on the new ECU for the first time is always a satisfying feeling, it is important to realise that
the job is not complete. The amount of tuning performed and the experience of the tuner are the two most
important factors in determining how happy you will be with your engine management system.

1.1 Safety Notice

Your Link Plug-In ECU is designed to enhance the performance of your vehicle. However in all cases, your
vehicle must be operated in a safe manner. Do not tune your vehicle while operating it on public roads.
WARNING!
Failure to follow all installation and operating instructions may result in damage to
the Link ECU, personal injury, or harm to property.

1.2 Disclaimer
All care has been taken to ensure the pin outs and interconnections of the ECU to the vehicles wiring
harness are correct. However due to variations between vehicle models it is the installers responsibility to
check wiring connections BEFORE installing the ECU. Link will not be held responsible for any damage
caused by the incorrect installation of this product.

1.3 Support Options

Should any issues arise during installation, the following options exist for technical support:
1. PCLink help, press F1 while running PCLink
2. Contact your nearest Link dealer. A Link dealer list is available on our website.
3. Link website: www.LinkECU.com with Online Discussion Forum.
4. Technical Support Email: tech@LinkECU.com
The majority of questions received by the technical support team are clearly answered in the manuals.
Please consult the manuals to make sure that your question has not already been answered.

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 6 PlugIn Installation Manual

2 Pre-Installation
Before installing theLink G4+ ECU into the vehicle some pre-installation checks must be performed.

2.1 Internal Ignitor

2.1.1 BMWLink
The G4+ BMWLink plug-in ECU is equipped with internal ignitors to meet the requirements of the factory
wiring loom. (This means that ignition coils are wired directly to the ECU).

The internal igniter can drive 10 amps of current through each ignition channel. It is important not to exceed
this current when setting dwell times or fitting aftermarket coils.

The G4+ BMWLink plug-in ECU is capable of being used with an external igniter (6 channels) or with direct
spark coils (with built in igniters). To carry out this upgrade each of the ECUs ignition outputs will require the
following steps:

1. Disconnect the wiring from the ECUs ignition output to the ignition coil.
2. Wire an external igniter to the ECUs ignition output.
3. Fit and wire a 470 Ohm resistor between the ECUs +5V pin and the Ignition output. Make sure this the
resistor and all connections are secure and well insulated.
4. Use PCLink to connect to the ECU. Navigate to the following area ECU Settings > Ignition > Ignition
Setup > Ignition Main > Spark Edge and set the Spark Edge to Rising.

The ECU will now invert the ignition signal so that the external igniter will work correctly. The diagram below
shows the correct wiring setup.

Notes
Each ignition output requires its own pull-up resistor and igniter channel.
470 Ohms is a guideline for the correct resistor value, the ideal value will depend on the external igniter
being used.
The Spark Edge setting effects all ignition outputs, so all ignition outputs must match and either have a
Rising or Falling Spark Edge.

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 Installation 7

3 Installation
This guide provides information on correctly and safely installing your new Link G4+ Plug-In ECU.

3.1 ECU Handling Procedures

WARNING!!!
The following installation process will require handling of both the Link ECU and
factory ECU. Both of these are highly sensitive to electrostatic discharge and are
easily damaged. Follow the anti-static precautions given in this manual carefully
to avoid damaging electronic components. Warranty claims for ECUs damaged
by electrostatic discharge will NOT be accepted.

ANTI-STATIC HANDLING GUIDELINES

Your body builds up an electrical charge as you move around. This charge can reach very high
voltages. Whenever given the opportunity this energy will attempt to discharge (usually through
your finger tips!). This can be fatal to most electronic components. Most people have
experienced an electrostatic discharge when they step out of their car or touch a metal bench
top.
1. The following guidelines describe precautions that can be taken to reduce the possibility of
damaging your ECU:
2. Work only on a conductive surface. A clean steel bench is suitable.
3. Always wear a wrist strap that is electrically connected to the conductive working surface.
4. Touch the working surface regularly.
5. Do NOT touch components on the circuit board.
6. Where possible, only handle the ECU by its plastic header.
7. Do NOT carry the ECU around without anti-static packaging.
8. Do NOT touch the bare terminals in the ECU header.
Observing the above procedures will minimise the chance of damaging the ECU. Note that
failure due to static damage often does not appear until well after it was caused.

3.2 Fitting the ECU

Information is provided to assist in fitting the ECU into the vehicle.

3.2.1 BMWLink
The following steps outline the installation procedure:
1. Remove the factory ECU from the vehicle: Ensure the key is in the OFF position. The factory ECU is
located behind a black panel inside the engine bay on the firewall. Unplug the wiring harness from the
factory ECU and remove any mechanical fasteners holding the ECU in place. DO NOT touch the exposed
pins in the factory ECU connector.
2. Remove the factory ECUs circuit board from its enclosure: Ensure you are following the given anti-static
guidelines and ARE WEARING A CONDUCTIVE WRIST STRAP connected to a conductive working
surface. Remove the top cover by carefully bending the locking tabs back. Remove the factory circuit board
from the bottom plate by removing the retaining screws holding the heatsink down and releasing the plastic

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8 PlugIn Installation Manual

clip holding the board in the centre. Hold it only by the plastic header and place it aside.
3. Remove the Link ECU from its packaging and place it immediately on the factory bottom plate. Place the
factory ECU in the packaging your Link ECU came in for its protection.
4. Secure the Link ECU onto the bottom plate of the factory enclosure using the factory screws.
5. Drill two holes in the top cover of the case, one for the vacuum line and one for the tuning cable. Thread a
length of vacuum hose through the hole and connect it using a cable tie to the hose joiner on the small
length of vacuum hose attached to the Link ECU. Thread the tuning cable through the second hole.
6. Connect the ECU to the factory wiring loom.
7. Secure the ECU back in the vehicle using the factory fasteners and install all covers. Extra holes for the
tuning cable and MAP hose may need to be drilled through covers.
8. Connect the vacuum hose to a stable manifold pressure source. It is important never to share a vacuum
source with devices such as mechanical boost gauges and blow off valves. Teeing into the fuel pressure
regulator vacuum source often provides a good pressure reading.
9. Do NOT attempt to start the vehicle. Proceed to read through the remaining sections of this manual first.

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 Additional Sensors 9

4 Additional Sensors
G4+ Plug-In ECUs offer various options for the installation of additional sensors and devices. As a minimum
it is recommended that all ECUs are installed with a Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor and Intake
Air Temperature (IAT) sensor. These parts can be purchased if required from your nearest Link dealer.

4.1 MAP Sensor

It is important that the pressure source for a MAP sensor be taken from a stable pressure source after the
throttle body. It is common to 'T' into the fuel pressure regulators pressure signal. Do NOT share this signal
with other devices such as boost gauges or blow off valves.

4.1.1 BMWLink
The G4+ BMWLink Plug-In ECU supports several options for fitting of a MAP sensor. Any one of the following
options can be used:
1. Internal MAP Sensor – To ease installation the G4+ BMWLink ECU is fitted with an internal MAP sensor.
This sensor is rated to 4.0 Bar absolute pressure (3.0 Bar of boost). The internal MAP sensor is wired to
An Volt 1.
2. MAP Sensor Wired Through AFM – To avoid running additional wires into the engine bay, a MAP signal
can be brought in through either of the AFM signal wires. The AFM signal is wired to An Volt 6. Refer to
factory wiring manuals for AFM wiring connections. Make sure the AFM can not be reconnected.
3. MAP Via Expansion Connector - The expansion connector provides power, ground, and analog channels
for the connection of a MAP sensor.
Make sure that the correct An Volt channel has been selected as MAP sensor in PCLink and a MAP
calibration has been performed before attempting to start the vehicle.

4.2 IAT Sensor

It is highly recommended that an IAT sensor be fitted in all applications to provide an input for correction of
fuel and ignition based on the engines air charge temperature.
An IAT sensor should be fitted in the intake system in a location that accurately represents intake
temperature. The most common location is just prior to the throttle body. Installing in the manifold is not
recommended due to heat soak issues. A fast response sensor must be used in all forced induction
applications.

4.2.1 BMWLink
From factory, models supported by the G4+ BMWLink Plug-In ECU are fitted with an IAT sensor. This has
been connected to AnTemp2. Ensure this channel is selected as IAT Sensor in PCLink.

4.3 Expansion Connector

The expansion connector is provided to allow easy connection of additional ECU inputs. An “expansion cable”
needs to be purchased from your Link dealer.
Important points when wiring to the expansion connector:
Do not overload the +5V Out pin. Although this is protected against ECU damage the +5V out signal also
provides power for other sensors.
Do not connect the ground pin to chassis ground. This could cause ground loops and introduce
unnecessary interference. Use this pin only to ground external sensors that are isolated from chassis
ground.

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 10 PlugIn Installation Manual

4.3.1 BMWLink
The following expansion connector inputs/outputs are provided:

TEMP3 Temperature sensor input

TEMP4 Temperature sensor input
VOLT4 Analog 0-5V input
VOLT5 Analog 0-5V input
DI8 Digital Input
DI7 Digital Input
+5V Low Current +5V Supply
GND Sensor Ground Only

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 PC Tuning 11

5 PC Tuning
G4+ ECUs require PC/laptop tuning using the PCLink Tuning Software application running on a Windows
based computer. PCLink may be downloaded from www.LinkECU.com. Note that when new versions of
PCLink are released they are posted on the website and may be downloaded at no cost. Also note that G4+
ECUs must be used with the correct version of PCLink.
IMPORTANT!
The G4+ ECU has on board USB.
BEFORE connecting the ECU to your laptop, the USB drivers must be installed.
Failure to install the drivers on your laptop first may result in windows assigning
incorrect drivers. These drivers will not work with the G4+ ECU and are difficult to
uninstall. The correct USB drivers are installed as part of PCLink installation, as
described in the following section. Should internet download not be practical, a
copy of the drivers on CD can be obtained from your nearest Link dealer.

5.1 Installing PCLink

Due to the frequent updates PCLink is no longer shipped with each ECU. You will be required to download
the latest version of PCLink from: www.LinkECU.com
Should access to an Internet connection be impractical, download the latest version of PCLink elsewhere to a
USB drive, and then install on your laptop.
Installing from the web
1. Go to the above website and navigate to the downloads and software updates section.
2. Download the latest version of PCLink. When prompted to run or save the file, select save. It is
recommended to save this file on the desktop.
3. Double click the saved file and follow on screen instructions.
4. When prompted to install USB drivers, select yes. This may take some time.
5. When installed, open PCLink by double clicking on the icon that has been placed on the desktop.

5.2 Communicating With Your ECU

After PCLink installation, you will be able to connect the G4+ ECU to the laptop to perform set-up and tuning
work.
1. Connect the ECU to your laptop using a Link G4+ ECU USB Cable. If not supplied with the ECU, these
can be purchased from a Link dealer. No other adapter or cabling is required. Connect the cable to the
connector labelled USB.
2. If this is the first time you have connected a G4+ USB ECU to your laptop follow the driver installation
instructions that appear. When prompted if you want to install drivers select 'Continue Anyway'.
3. Start PCLink by double clicking on the PCLink icon on the windows desktop.
4. Switch the key to the ON position. This will provide power to the ECU.
5. In PCLink, under the 'Options' menu, select 'Connection'. The connection options dialogue will open.
Select the correct COM Port number from the drop down list or select auto for automatic com port
detection.
6. PCLink offers both mouse and keyboard control. To establish a connection between the PC and ECU
press the F3 key. The same process can be used to disconnect. If a successful connection is
established, PCLink will download settings from the ECU, otherwise you will be warned that an error has
occurred.
7. Make sure the connection shows “ONLINE” in the top right corner of PCLink.
8. To permanently STORE any changes made to the ECU press F4. If this is not done before turning the
ECUs power off all changes made will be lost.

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 12 PlugIn Installation Manual

6 Pre-Start Configuration
Before starting the vehicle, important pre-start configurations need to be made.

6.1 Firmware Version

It is recommended that the Link G4+ ECU is running the most up to date firmware. Firmware version
information can be obtained by connecting to the ECU with PCLink and selecting 'ECU Information' under the
Help menu.
The latest firmware can be downloaded from our website with PCLink.
It is recommended that this is performed by an experienced Link dealer as new features may need to be
properly configured.
The firmware can be updated by selecting 'Update Firmware' under the 'ECU Controls' menu in PCLink.
Follow the on screen instructions to complete the firmware update process.

6.2 Base Configuration

All G4+ Plug-In ECUs are shipped with base configuration settings. Note that these are provided to reduce
initial setup and tuning times. They are NOT recommended tuning values. PCLink includes base
configurations for various models. Download the appropriate base configuration into your ECU with PCLink
by connecting to the ECU (described in the Connecting To PCLink section of this manual), then selecting
'Open' under the 'File' menu. Select the appropriate .pcl file and then select 'Open'. Downloading large
configuration files can take up to a few minutes. Be patient and acknowledge any messages PCLink shows.

6.3 MAP Sensor Calibration

At key on and engine not running the Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor should always match the
Barometric Absolute Pressure (BAP) Sensor. As well as providing altitude correction, the BAP sensor also
allows the MAP sensor to be calibrated prior to tuning.
Link G4+ ECUs use an on-board barometric sensor that is calibrated prior to dispatch. This ensures that all
PCLink Tuning Software programs (pcl Files) give a consistent state of tune throughout the ECU range. This
allows a PCL file to be transferred between G4+ based ECUs giving an equivalent state of tune providing all
factors affecting volumetric efficiency are equal.
Without the ability to calibrate all the available types of MAP Sensors to the BAP Sensor there would be
significant affects on the accuracy of the resulting tune, especially when tuning with Manifold Gauge
Pressure (MGP) as a load index.
To calibrate the MAP sensor:
1. Connect a laptop/notebook PC to the ECU and connect to the ECU using PCLink.
2. Under the Analog Channels menu, select the An Volt channel that has been wired to the MAP sensor.
Select the correct MAP Sensor Type.
3. Under the 'Options' menu, select 'MAP sensor calibration'.
4. Follow the on screen instructions.
5. Select the 'Analog Inputs' tab in the runtime values section of PCLink (lower part of the screen).
6. Compare the MAP and BAP values and ensure they have a similar reading (within 1 kPa).
7. Perform a 'Store' by pressing F4.

6.4 TPS Calibration

The Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) is used by the ECU to calculate various engine management parameters
used by functions such as idle speed control,acceleration enrichment and motor sport features. It is
important that the ECU knows when the throttle is open and closed (or part way in between). The following
procedure calibrates the ECU to match the TPS and is for engines using a cable driven throttle:

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 Pre-Start Configuration 13

1. Connect a laptop/notebook PC to the ECU and connect to the ECU using PCLink.
2. Under the Analog Channels menu, ensure that the correct An Volt channel is set to 'TPS (Main)'. Refer to
the pin functions section of this manual for details.
3. Under the 'Options' menu, select 'TPS calibration'.
4. Follow the on screen instructions.
5. Select the 'Analog Inputs' tab in the runtime values section of PCLink (lower part of the screen).
6. Ensure the Throttle Position value reads 0% when the throttle is closed and 100% when fully open.
7. Perform a 'Store' by pressing F4.

For engine setups that use Electronic Throttle Control the Foot Position Sensor (FPS) and Throttle Position
Sensor (TPS) need to be calibrated.

For Link Plug-in ECUs see PCLink Help > G4+ ECU Tuning Functions > Electronic Throttle > Electronic
Throttle Control TPS and FPS Calibration

6.5 IAT Sensor Selection

This section only applies when an Intake Air Temperature (IAT) sensor has been wired and fitted to the intake
system. It is important that the ECU is calibrated to match the sensor installed in the engine. This procedure
is as simple as selecting the correct sensor type as follows:
1. Connect a laptop/notebook PC to the ECU and connect to the ECU using PCLink.
2. Click on 'Analog Channel' in the configuration tree.
3. Select the An Temp channel the sensor has been wired to.
4. Ensure that channel (and only that channel) is set to 'Inlet Air Temperature'.
5. Select the correct 'Temp Sensor Type'.
6. Select the 'Analog Inputs' tab in the runtime values section of PCLink (lower part of the screen).
7. Ensure that IAT reads the correct temperature.
8. Perform a 'Store' by pressing F4.

6.6 Input and Output Setup

As the Link G4+ Plug-In ECUs are designed to run several models there are a few items that must be set-up
to make the ECU specific to your model.
The Pin Functions section of this manual gives a list of the functions of each channel based on the target
vehicle.
It is the tuners responsibility to make sure that the following channels are set-up correctly for the vehicle
model the ECU is fitted to:
All Auxiliary Output Channels
Use the 'Test On' or 'Test PWM' (at 10 Hz) functions to test the wiring of channels.
All Digital Inputs
Look at the Digital Inputs runtime values (lower section of the PCLink screen) to confirm each channels
operation.
All Analog Volt and Temperature Inputs
Look at the Analog Inputs runtime values (lower section of the PCLink screen) to confirm each channels
operation.

6.7 Trigger Calibration

The following instructions assume that all pre-start set-up instructions given in previous sections have been
completed. Only after all pre-start checks have been made should an attempt be made to crank the engine.

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14 PlugIn Installation Manual

The following steps must be performed before an attempt is made to start the engine to ensure the G4+ ECU
is calibrated to precisely measure engine position.
1. Connect the ECU to PCLink.
2. Select 'Fuel', then 'Fuel Set-up':
a. Set ‘Injection Mode’ to OFF. This will prevent the engine from trying to start while the triggers are
calibrated.
b. Perform a Store (press F4) to make sure fuelling is not re-enabled if power to the ECU is lost.
3. Click on ‘Triggers’ then ‘Calibrate Triggers’.
4. Perform the correct trigger calibration procedure specific to your vehicle as described in the PCLink online
help (Press F1).
Note that trigger calibration must be performed again once the engine is running. Due to the acceleration and
deceleration of the crankshaft at low speeds, an inaccurate measurement of engine timing is usually made.
Also it is often harder to see timing marks with a timing light at slow engine speeds. Trigger calibration
should be checked again at between 2000-4000 RPM where engine speed is stable and a more consistent
timing reading can be obtained.

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 First Time Startup 15

7 First Time Startup

After performing all set-up instructions given in previous sections, including trigger calibration, the engine is
now ready to be started. The following procedure should be used for first time start-up.
1. Turn the ignition key OFF then ON. The fuel pump should prime momentarily upon power up.
2. Connect the ECU to PCLink.
3. Access the runtimes values by pressing the F12 Key, click the 'Analog' tab:
a. TPS – spans from 0 to 100% when throttle is pressed. If not, perform a TPS Calibration.
b. MAP – should read approx 101 kPa (at sea level) with the engine not running. If not, check the MAP
Sensor Type setting and perform a MAP Calibration.
c. ECT – should read current engine temperature.
d. IAT – should read current intake air temperature.
e. Digital Inputs (click the 'Digital' tab) – Operate switches connected to any digital inputs while watching
the runtime value to ensure they operate as expected.
4. Rectify any faults found in Step 3.
5. Locate the 'Master Fuel' setting. This can be found in the ECU Settings Menu under: Fuel > Fuel Setup >
Fuel Main.
a. This will need to be adjusted during or just after start-up.
6. Crank the engine until it starts. Some throttle may be required for first time start-up due to imperfect
tuning. If necessary adjust the Master setting to enrich/lean the engine (increase to enrich).
7. If the engine fails to start after several attempts, do not crank it endlessly. Stop and determine the
problem before continuing.
8. Check the Trigger Error Counter (found under the Triggers runtime values tab). If this value increases
during cranking/running then there is a trigger setup fault. It is not unusual for this number to count one or
two on the first engine revolution.
9. Once the engine starts, adjust the ‘Master’ (under fuel settings) setting to achieve best possible running.
10.The engine should now be allowed to fully warm up. It may be necessary to readjust ‘Master’ several
times to maintain smooth running. Don’t forget to keep an eye on engine temperature.
11.Once the engine is warmed up and running well, perform another trigger calibration (known “as setting the
base timing”).
12.Perform a Store by pressing F4.

7.1 Final Checks

To avoid potential engine damage and wasted time, the adjustments presented in the following sections must
be made before attempting to start the engine.
For further help on any of the settings discussed below, consult the online Help in the PCLink Tuning
Software. Online help can be invoked by pressing F1, or right clicking any item and selecting ‘What’s this?’.
Pre-set-up Checks
Before attempting to configure the ECU, ensure the following tasks have been completed:
1. Ensure the ECU and all associated components are connected and correctly wired/installed.
2. Fully charge the vehicle’s battery, as the engine will be required to be cranked during the set-up procedure.
3. Check all oil and water levels are correct.
Connecting to PCLink Tuning Software
Use the following procedure to establish a connection between your Link ECU and PCLink Tuning Software
tuning software.
1. Make sure your laptop battery is fully charged or plugged in to mains power.
2. Connect the ECU to your laptop and connect to PCLink Tuning Software as described in the
'Communicating with your ECU' section of this manual.

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 16 PlugIn Installation Manual

7.2 Essential Tuning Adjustments

It is assumed that at this stage all set-up procedures described in previous sections have been completed
and the engine is running. The following steps detail correct set-up procedures for some of the more critical
ECU parameters (note that MAP Sensor Calibration should have already been completed by now):
Injector Voltage (Dead-time) Correction
There is always a delay between the injector being energised and the injector actually opening. Likewise,
there is a small delay between the injector being de-energised and the injector closing. The opening time is
considerably longer than the closing time, however the overall result is that less fuel will flow for a given pulse
width than would be expected with an 'ideal injector'. To compensate for this the injector pulse widths are
increased to compensate for this 'dead-time'. The dead-time for a given injector is a function of the battery
voltage, differential fuel pressure and the type of injector driver (saturated or peak and hold). A typical dead-
time at 3 Bar differential fuel pressure and 14 volts is just under 1ms (ms = millisecond = 1 thousandth of a
second).
In applications with a linear 1:1 fuel pressure regulator (i.e. not a rising rate regulator), the differential fuel
pressure (difference between manifold pressure and fuel pressure) will be constant. Therefore the only
variable that is changing will be the battery voltage (this changes with electrical load and sometimes engine
speed). Without correction, the changes in dead-time will cause the engine to run lean when the voltage
drops. If the Injector Voltage Correction is properly set-up then changes in the battery voltage will not affect
the air/fuel ratio.
The injector dead-time table allows the dead-time for different battery voltages to be entered. The values
represent the dead-time in milliseconds. These should increase with falling system voltage.
Injector dead-time for a particular set of injectors can be determined using a flow bench or on a running
engine.
To determine the injector dead-time using a flow bench, the injectors need to be operated at the intended
operating pressure (normally three bar) and at a constant duty cycle as well as a set voltage. Vary the
supply voltage to the injector and measure minimum pulse width at which the injectors will flow for a
particular voltage. This is the required dead-time for that injector at that tested voltage.
To determine injector dead-time on a running engine, with the engine fully warmed and operating at stable air/
fuel ratios (a very precise AFR meter is required – a narrow band O2 sensor will not suffice), electrical drain
needs to be applied to the system; the preferred method is disconnecting the alternator main fuse. Battery
load testers are also useful here too.
Watching the air fuel ratios change while the battery voltage drops, the dead-time table can be trimmed to
maintain the same stable air/fuel ratio. Injector dead-time can be viewed as a row graph. A smooth curve
needs to be maintained at all times.
NOTE: any change to the fuel pressure or injectors will require a recalibration of the injector dead-times.
Master
Master should be set so that the numbers in the middle of the fuel table end up around a value of 50. This is
to allow sufficient span of the numbers in the main fuel table.

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 Pin Functions 17

8 Pin Functions
A list of pin functions is provided, this is useful when configuring your ECU through PCLink.

8.1 BMWLink
BMWLink

Auxiliary Outputs
Aux 1 Idle Speed Control (Close)
Aux 2 Idle Speed Control (Open)
Aux 3 Camshaft Solenoid
Aux 4 Fuel Consumption Signal
Aux 5 Tachometer
Aux 6 Check Engine Light
Aux 7 Throttle Valve Position (for Transmission Control Module)
Aux 8 Fuel Pump Relay
Aux – Ignition Outputs
Aux - Ign 7 Air Con Compressor
Aux - Ign 8 Purge Solenoid

Analog Channels
An Volt 1 MAP
An Volt 2 TPS (Main)
An Volt 3 Oxy Sensor
An Volt 4 Expansion Connector
An Volt 5 Expansion Connector
An Temp 1 ECT
An Temp 2 IAT
An Temp 3 Expansion Connector
An Temp 4 Expansion Connector
Digital Inputs
DI 1 Speed
DI 2 A/C Request
DI 3 Blow er Idle Up
DI 4 Timing Intervention Request (for Transmission Control Module)
DI 5 Automatic Trans Range Sw itch (for Transmission Control Module)
DI 7 Expansion Connector
DI 8 Expansion Connector

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 18 PlugIn Installation Manual

9 Pinouts
Pin information is provided to assist when troubleshooting. All pinouts are looking into the ECU (wire side).

9.1 BMWLink

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 Pinouts 19

Pin ECU Function

1 Aux 8
2 Aux 1
3 Inj 5
4 Inj 6
5 Inj 4
7 Aux 3
8 Aux 6
11 Aux 7
13 An Volt 3
16 Trig 1
17 Trig 2
23 Ign 4
24 Ign 6
25 Ign 5
29 Aux 2
31 Inj 3
32 Inj 2
33 Inj 1
34 Gnd
36 Ign 8 (Aux)
41 AnVolt 6
42 DI 1
46 Aux 4
47 Aux 5
48 Ign 7 (Aux)
50 Ign 1
51 Ign 2
52 Ign 3
54 +14V
57 DI 4
59 +5V
64 DI 3
65 DI 2
69, 70 Knock
73 AnVolt 2
77 AnTemp 2
78 AnTemp 1
81 DI 5
Internal MAP Sensor AnVolt 1
Expansion 1 Gnd
Expansion 2 +5V
Expansion 3 DI 7
Expansion 4 DI 8
Expansion 5 AnVolt 5
Expansion 6 AnVolt 4
Expansion 7 AnTemp 4
Expansion 8 AnTemp 3

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 20 PlugIn Installation Manual

10 CAN Information
The following CAN (Controller Area Network) information is provided:

10.1 BMWLink
The G4+ BMWLink Plug-in ECU has two CAN buses. These CAN buses exist to support aftermarket CAN
devices.

CAN bus 1 uses a 5 pin connector and is labeled on the ECU as 'CAN 1/RS232'.

CAN 1/RS232 Connector

Pin Function Colour
1 Comms GND Brown
2 CAN1 L Green
3 CAN1 H White
4 RS232-RX Grey
5 RS232-TX Yellow

CAN bus 2 uses a 5 pin connector and is labeled on the ECU as 'CAN 2/OBD'.

CAN 2/OBD Connector

Pin Function Colour
1 GND Brown
2 CAN1 L Green
3 CAN1 H White
4 NC Grey
5 +14V Yellow

To learn more about CAN see PCLink help.

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 Known Issues 21

11 Known Issues
All plug-in ECUs are fully tested on a range of relevant vehicles, although there are often variations that have
not been tested. For this reason issues can arise.

WARNING: Always download the latest Installation Manual from LinkECU.com and check the latest status of
known issues before installing the ECU.

Please contact your nearest Link dealer when suspecting a compatibility issue.

11.1 BMWLink
There are currently no known issues.

© 2 0 1 7 Link