Questions
The things we get asked most, grouped by platform. If yours isn't here it's probably specific enough to be worth a conversation.
Pretty much anything concerning the computers in your vehicle. Advanced diagnostics, repair/replacement, retrofitting, cloning, performance tuning, and more.
We specialize in GM and Stellantis (aka FCA, Dodge/Mopar/Chrysler/Jeep/RAM). When it comes to these makes, we can do almost anything. We also offer performance tuning and replacement services for Ford, as well as service other brands such as: Audi/VW, Nissan/Infiniti, and more. Toyota/Lexus is the one brand we don't touch at all.
Yes. That was how we got started. There is an "on-site services" charge applied based on distance.
Darkfall Commission is based out of Lodi, CA, but we do not have a shop, as the nature of our business doesn't tend to require one. It helps us keep prices reasonable by cutting out unnecessary overhead. This may change in the future.
Most of Northern California and areas close to the Nevada/California border. We will pretty much travel anywhere if the client needs us to.
All services are appointment-based. We do charge a deposit for booking, and we tend to be booked 2-4 days out, so bear that in mind when you want to schedule.
Over the years, one thing has been proven true time and time again; if a client doesn't pay a deposit, they are likely not to show up or simply reschedule at the last minute. A deposit shows you are serious about having the services performed, and a client who puts a deposit down will almost never miss an appointment. It also goes towards the total cost of the services being performed.
Yes, all services and hardware are warrantied unless otherwise noted. If you have an issue with anything, we will do our best to remedy the situation whether by fixing the issue or replacing/reprogramming hardware. If we are unable to get things sorted out for you, we will issue a refund (only after we have exhausted any other method of repair/replacement/re-tuning, etc).
Well, not much. We can get power out of almost any vehicle, stock or not. It is courtesy and proper (not to mention safe) to make sure your brakes and tires are in good condition, your transmission is functioning properly, your clutch is not slipping, and that you do not smoke, leak ANY fluids whatsoever. Basically, if you vehicle is unsafe, not streetable (needs MORE than a tune), or leaks or smokes, then you need to address those issues before we tune it. We are NOT responsible for any damage to ANY components on the vehicle during or after the tuning session.
First off, we will NEVER force ANY vehicle to shoot flames. Period. Don't even ask.
For pops/bangs, we can do that but it does REQUIRE your catalytic converters to be removed. All of them. The reason is 2-fold. To start, it will destroy your cats in very short order (explosions coming from outside of the engine in the exhaust), and you also will not be able to hear the sound you are looking for.
No. We will never do that. Your rev limiter is there for a reason, and most likely, that is not what you are wanting anyway. Some a**hole decide to use that term "rev limiter delete" or something similar to describe the sound of a park or neutral rev with pops/bangs and bouncing off the limiter. This is called a "hard-cut limiter" or "spark-cut limiter". It has nothing to do with revs. Yes, we can do that, but if you want the sound of a 2-step launch control, we suggest purchasing a 2-step launch controller.
Anything from 1999 and up. GEN III, GEN IV, GEN V, Global-A/B. We offer no diesel services at this time.
Yes. We have extensive experience with LS swaps with GEN III/IV/V ECUs and programming computers as a standalone system, including: VATS/O2/EGR/EVAP deletes (and associated DTCs), non-electric automatic and manual transmissions, electric fans, transmission upgrades/swaps (like 4L60E to 4L80E).
We can modify your current computer, or source one that will be programmed to your needs and sent to you or you can come pick it up. Our vendors give us 1 year warranties on all hardware, and we pass that directly to you.
Yes, absolutely. We have worked many of the current modern big brand name cams out there. Brian Tooley Racing, Sloppy Mechanics, Summit, Crower, Comp, Texas Speed, etc. Our approach to tuning the cams is always custom, always right. We don't use any pre-made or saved data or templates. That way you get the right tune for YOUR build.
Only 2015 and newer vehicles have their PCMs locked from the factory. This includes ALL Dodge, Jeep, Chrysler, RAM, and Fiat vehicles from 2015 and up.
No. We have all of the tools needed. You just need to have the keys and the vehicle, and anything else discussed at the time of scheduling.
No. If your vehicle has a tune from a system other than HP Tuners, then we will be needing the PCM flashed back to stock before we begin. If your previous tuner has used HP Tuners or an HP Tuners RTD (flashed from your phone/remote tuning), then we can usually piggy-back off of the current tune.
Yes. Most GM ECUs with the exception of a few can be programmed to run by themselves, and yes, we can do that.
Yes. Contact us and tell us your specifics of the swap and we can find and program an ECU and send it to you.
Yes, depending on the ECU, you may be stuck with an electric (aka "drive-by-wire" throttle body), but that is not a bad thing. This is a typical question for someone doing a GM GEN III swap (99-07ish). Check out the build tips or contact us if you need advice that you cannot find in the build tips section.
Yes. Absolutely. There are a few catches if you do this though. Usually you will need to purchase a speedometer analog to digital signal adapter. The ECU NEEDS to see a speed signal so it moves out of the idle tables after it sense you moving over 0 MPH. Without it, it will fall on it's face.
This is kind of our specialty. Yes. We can program every single module in your swap. We have done many dozens of these types of swaps. One thing to note: These swaps require EVERY module reprogrammed with the correct mileage, VIN, etc from the CHASSIS (not the swap/donor). If not, the vehicle either will not start, will lose functionality, or both, and will not pass inspection. Changing all of the is REQUIRED for a street-legal vehicle and registerable vehicle.
You need to provide proof of ownership of the vehicle itself, and some sort of receipt from the auction/person/shop that sold you the donor vehicles engine, transmission, etc..
WE WILL NOT WORK ON STOLEN VEHICLES NOR PARTS. DO NOT send us, hire us, or engage in any sort of BS related to stolen gear.
Well, short answer is, yes. Long answer: there are a small handful of people in the US that openly advertise such services, and we are one of them. It takes specialized equipment, knowledge, and software (we even wrote our own software for stuff like this and more.). Of course, these are trade secrets, and thus aren't likely to circulate in forums much.
Yes. Usually that happens from someone trying to program one or more of the computers without having a solid working knowledge on how their computer/network architecture functions. We can help. Just shoot us a message
Yes. We can program pretty much any module in any modern dodge as long as the parts are compatible and the wiring has been done correctly. We will match the VIN and mileage to reflect that of the chassis.
Yes, absolutely. The important thing to remember is to ALWAYS keep the "bad" module. Even though it may not be functioning properly, many times we can at least salvage the EEPROM data (where you VIN and security data is located) and transfer it to the new ECU/PCM/TCM/ABS or pretty much any other module you can think of, providing an inexpensive, effective plug-and-play replacement.
Unfortunately, it does limit us somewhat, but usually we can pull this data from the Body Control Module (or another module if the BCM is not part of the immobilizer like most vehicles). If we cannot get the security data from anywhere else (Dodge/Chrysler owners, don't worry. This part does not apply to you), then we would only be able to send a module programmed with the right calibration ("tune"), VIN, and mileage, and you would need to do a key relearn or some other marriage process, typically done with dealership tools or some aftermarket scantools/software.
Every build has something in it that no page anticipates. Tell us the vehicle and what it needs to become, and we'll tell you exactly what it takes.
Start a conversationRules of thumb for GM and Dodge/FCA builds — what to settle before the car comes apart.
Read the build tips