Ranger High Idle function

Goochie · Wed Nov 21, 2018 7:31 pm

Is there any way to achieve a high-idle function on Ranger PX2? This is available on Land Cruiser 79 (GXL) and is very useful for maintaining high current output whilst running winches etc.

The Cruiser has a simple dash mounted push button but that's clearly not standard fit on Ranger.

Wed Nov 21, 2018 8:59 pm

Goochie wrote: ↑Wed Nov 21, 2018 7:31 pmThe Cruiser has a simple dash mounted push button but that's clearly not standard fit on Ranger.

That was very handy, all 4x4 should have it.

It would have been very handy 2 weeks ago.

Thu Nov 22, 2018 6:43 am

Nothing in software.

If you're keen you you could intercept the throttle signal or run a manual cable to the peddle, bit of fab work would be involved.

Email iDrive and ask them to add a high idle option as they intercept the throttle peddle so could easily be achieved. Whether they would re write the firmware for the iDrive is doubtful though.

Goochie · Thu Nov 22, 2018 8:18 am

I did try another seller of electronic modules for Ranger but their response put me right off "Hi..... I think we could do this because the engine idles higher on hot days when the AC is turned on so we could maybe trick the ECU into thinking it was a really hot day to make it idle higher"

I've contacted someone I know "on the inside" and await his response which, may take a couple of weeks as he'll need to refer it to someone else.

Thu Nov 22, 2018 11:22 am

saeb wrote: ↑Thu Nov 22, 2018 6:43 am Email iDrive and ask them to add a high idle option as they intercept the throttle peddle so could easily be achieved. Whether they would re write the firmware for the iDrive is doubtful though.

I did that after my recent trip, their reply.....

Thank you for your enquiry, great to hear you're loving the iDRIVE. An idle up function is definitely something we are looking into, the only issue is every iDRIVE's voltage pattern is calibrated differently depending on the vehicle so the idle up function has to be programmed specifically for each vehicle application. Due to our strict product testing requirements and the fact that an idle up function has the potential to be dangerous if it malfunctions, we have to source a wide variety of cars and test each one individually to ensure there are no programming errors, which unfortunately takes time.

Thu Nov 29, 2018 11:45 am

The Stealth controller has a fast idle setting

Features include the following
- Voltage Reader (Works like a Voltage Gauge)
- Low Voltage signal warning
- 13 Performance Modes (10% more responsive compared to the 3.0, 20% more responsive compared to Chinese units windboost/edrive/udrive/idrive/Vitess/potent/cammus etc)
- 7 Fuel Saving Modes (optional modes)
- Auto IQ Intelligent Mode II (set and forget setting that changes to suit your driving)
- Anti Theft Mode (locks the accelerator, 100% optional)
- Memory Function (retains last setting)
- MANUAL IDLE RPM CONTROL, for offroad winching, jump starting, launch control, allows you to set the RPM's on idle. Can assist in diagnosing engine issues.
- Sturdy Stainless Metal Casing
- Shock proof / Screen is water proof
- Glass Screen (with protector)
- Latest German Chip for max performance and reliability
- USA MADE Delphi Harnesses
- USA MADE Connectors/Looms
- Programming made in Australia
- Circuit Board made in Australia
- Re-programmable again and again (can be reprogrammed at home to suit different vehicles)
- Lifetime warranty
- 14 day free returns
- Optional double OBD2 harness, or instructions on hard wiring to 12V Accessories available.
https://www.revhigh.com.au/stealth-thro ... structions

Goochie · Wed Jan 23, 2019 8:40 am

Following up on this after a conversation with an extremely reliable source today.

High idle is basically not achievable by CAN or any other sensible method on the Ranger. The only way to do it is the same as the Stealth controller suggested above and spoof the output from the accelerator pedal position sensor. If you wanted to be crude about it the easiest way is to simply buy another accelerator pedal sensor, mount it somewhere secure and set it to a partially open position. Then when you want to use high idle you switch (electrically) from the pedal mounted position sensor to the secondary one.

To achieve the same as the Stealth controller, you need a PLC of other device that simulates the position sensor signals to fool the ECU into thinking the accelerator has been pressed.

However, all of this is theoretically pointless because the Ranger's smart charge system will take care of it by itself. When it sees a large battery drain or the battery level drops below pre-set level, it will automatically high-idle and demand full charge capability from the alternator. The RPM reached during this process is dependant on whether its a manual or auto and on auto models whether its in P or D at the time. The highest idle speed is reached on an Auto model when in P - Perfect for winching.

Tue Jan 29, 2019 11:28 pm

Goochie wrote: ↑Wed Jan 23, 2019 8:40 am Following up on this after a conversation with an extremely reliable source today.

High idle is basically not achievable by CAN or any other sensible method on the Ranger. The only way to do it is the same as the Stealth controller suggested above and spoof the output from the accelerator pedal position sensor. If you wanted to be crude about it the easiest way is to simply buy another accelerator pedal sensor, mount it somewhere secure and set it to a partially open position. Then when you want to use high idle you switch (electrically) from the pedal mounted position sensor to the secondary one.

To achieve the same as the Stealth controller, you need a PLC of other device that simulates the position sensor signals to fool the ECU into thinking the accelerator has been pressed.

However, all of this is theoretically pointless because the Ranger's smart charge system will take care of it by itself. When it sees a large battery drain or the battery level drops below pre-set level, it will automatically high-idle and demand full charge capability from the alternator. The RPM reached during this process is dependant on whether its a manual or auto and on auto models whether its in P or D at the time. The highest idle speed is reached on an Auto model when in P - Perfect for winching.

Thanks for posting your finding Goochie.