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Holley terminator x max

MetalMulishaMarcus

MetalMulishaMarcus

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Hello all,
So I've got an 01 5.3 vortec (LS based) that I've been thinking of running a holley terminator x max on, who would be purchased through a member on here (@folkenheath).

I know there's tons and tons of videos and reviews online about the Holley Terminator but have any of you used this system? Have you or know anyone that has encountered any problems?

I recently seen a video on YouTube of a guys x max ecu going bad and not working at all but holley is fixing the problem (waiting for his youtube update).

I also read last night about the fiasco @sweetk30 has had with holley, although it is a different system..the customer service part scares me a little.

So do any if you guys have any feedback?
 
I have used the Terminator X, original Terminator(which uses HP/Dominator ECUs), and HP/Dominator Systems, they are all a step or five above their entry level Sniper Systems.

The Terminator X (and the X Max) have the most capability for the price you will find. I have used that system on a stock head mild LS2 build (it had a 4" stroke crank of course) and made 590 HP, and then sprayed it with full nitrous control and made 742 HP and 775 lb-ft on 93 octane pump gas(it was only a ~100 shot through my Volcano system), and I just let it tune itself the entire time after inputting all of the correct parameters and targets. The ECU is made in the USA, and the software interface is exactly the same as the higher end Dominator/HP Systems, its just missing some of the functions that the all out systems have, and the vast majority of people will never use.

If you need transmission control, and don't need all the bells and whistles of the Dominator ECU, the Terminator X Max is the way to go. Also, Holley's customer service is also pretty good too. I'm saying this stuff as a member, not just as a vendor, although I also wouldn't try to sell something I don't recommend myself.
 
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folkenheath said:
I have used the Terminator X, original Terminator(which uses HP/Dominator ECUs), and HP/Dominator Systems, they are all a step or five above their entry level Sniper Systems.

The Terminator X (and the X Max) have the most capability for the price you will find. I have used that system on a stock head mild LS2 build (it had a 4" stroke crank of course) and made 590 HP, and then sprayed it with full nitrous control and made 742 HP and 775 lb-ft on 93 octane pump gas(it was only a ~100 shot through my Volcano system), and I just let it tune itself the entire time after inputting all of the correct parameters and targets. The ECU is made in the USA, and the software interface is exactly the same as the higher end Dominator/HP Systems, its just missing some of the functions that the all out systems have, and the vast majority of people will never use.

If you need transmission control, and don't need all the bells and whistles of the Dominator ECU, the Terminator X Max is the way to go. Also, Holley's customer service is also pretty good too. I'm saying this stuff as a member, not just as a vendor, although I also wouldn't try to sell something I don't recommend myself.
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I may take this chance and buy it. Just scared to drop 1200 on something only to have problems later and can't return it or have a hard time getting it fixed.
 
I think if you do have problems down the road, which is unlikely with proper installation, Holley will fix it for you. I had my Dominator ECU for 2 years before I was able to actually use it, and they tested it and sent it back no charge in trying to diagnose an electronic speedo issue, this was before I was a dealer. Turned out it was fine, but they seemed like they would of warrantied it had it been an issue.

I'll do my best to solve any problems for you when you are getting it working too, I don't think you will be dissapointed. I think the Terminator (X too) are a worthwhile upgrade, because the ECU isn't mounted in a TB where you are stuck with that if you are disappointed for any reason. The ECU itself is capable of so much more, which you are aware of since you are starting out controlling a MPFI 5.3 LS and a transmission right out of the gate.

I'm just saying for example, if someone bought a Sniper TB system, and for some reason they didn't like it, they would have to get a new ECU to upgrade.

If someone bought a Terminator or Terminator X throttle body system, and didn't like it, they could just swap intakes, add injectors, and use the same ECU to control sequential MPFI with only some partial harness changes.

That being said I think there are many people out there that are happy with any of the systems.
 
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You got lucky on 2 year out warranty help . Mine never had fuel in it for 1.2 years and i had problems from start . They didnt want to help much but after i told them off a bit they did .

They didnt get the idea you need parts to build a project . But lots of times they eat time up before fire up . I told them i hade pics and video proof of install and fire up dated . That was the deciding factor in tbem helping me .
 
sweetk30 said:
You got lucky on 2 year out warranty help . Mine never had fuel in it for 1.2 years and i had problems from start . They didnt want to help much but after i told them off a bit they did .

They didnt get the idea you need parts to build a project . But lots of times they eat time up before fire up . I told them i hade pics and video proof of install and fire up dated . That was the deciding factor in tbem helping me .
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The Sniper? I know of multiple people that haven't been happy with the Sniper, fuel pressure issues, not running right with dual plane intakes, etc. Some people have great luck with it, I can't say I recommend the Sniper, I suggest people step up to either the Edelbrock ProFlo 4; Holley Terminator X, Terminator, or Dominator/HP. I put them in order of capabilities, but I confidently recommend any of those I mentioned. FAST is good too but currently it would require 3 different FAST boxes to do what one Terminator X Max or Dominator ECU can do if you are controlling an LS and auto trans for example. BigStuff is good too and very capable.
 
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What's a good one for a power adder? I'm planning out my 383 build and keep contemplating a blower.
 
While the ProFlo 4 can work for a power adder, I recommend the Holley Terminator (or X), or HP/Dominator System because they have nearly unlimited potential if you need to do any tweaking of the base fuel tables. The ProFlo 4, although self learning, has limits it has to stay in(this is why you can't use some injectors with some engine setups, etc) and you have select a new "tune" and start over. With the Holley, you can change any part of the tune at any time, with just a handheld, or especially with a laptop if needed. The Edelbrock does have the wireless Bluetooth tablet connection, which is nice. But I feel like the Holley system has a lot more potential if needed. The Edelbrock is easy to use, but if you stick with the handheld, so is the Holley.

Edelbrock does an all around great job with their all inclusive kits that even include the distributor, injectors, manifold, etc. This eliminates mistakes and mismatched parts that frequently cause headaches and delays. If you need I can help piece together a more full list of what is needed with the Holley parts. They also own MSD, Accell, etc, so they also offer a full line of throttle bodies, injectors, distributors, fuel system components,.....enough to make a complete kit. Although I have to admit when I do use Holley EFI I usually still use an Edelbrock manifold and rails as they are quality manifolds 100% made in the USA. Some Holley manifolds are made in the USA and some are cast in China. Most Holley stuff is made in the USA, but not all.

I can supply a base kit or complete kit with hand selected components for each application regardless of brand.

I am not saying you "need" a special distributor, but many people make mistakes or forget to lockout the distributor and then you end up with two things controlling timing, not good. Edelbrock eliminated these mistakes by including one ready to go. Also, they included a dist with a cam sync, this means it is also sequential injection, rather than bank to bank. Holley sells all these parts but they don't necessarily include them in case you want to save money and use parts you already have. The base Terminator X Kits start at around $1000, and include an ECU and wiring harness and 02 sensor, which is most all you need for an LS you already have injectors and TB for(not including fuel system). But for any old V8 you also need a TB, injectors(can be in the TB), or MPFI intake, rails, distributor (can use you old one for TB or non sequential MPFI), sensors, fuel system, etc.
 
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