MR2 Turbo TEC³ Installation: Overview

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Tachometer Amplifier	Computer	Wiring	Parts List

These sections describe how to install an Electromotive TEC³ EMS in a 1991 MR2 Turbo. Most of this information applies to other year MKII MR2 Turbos, but you should verify each step (particularly those in the wiring section) against the BGB and wiring diagram for your model year. This information is provided out of the kindness of my heart and only as a guide to help those embarking on this difficult transformation. What you do to your car is completely your responsibility and I make no claims that the information here is accurate, complete or will result in a satisfactory outcome even if you follow it to the letter.

My primary goal from this installation was to obtain a highly tunable platform on which I could continue to build up my 3S-GTE. My secondary goal was to achieve an installation that appears to be a stock setup to pass the visual portion smog inspections. For this reason, I used the stock engine wiring harness, kept the EGR and mounted the TEC³ unit in the well-hidden stock ECU location in the trunk. Be aware that the TEC³ system lacks a CARB exception number and it is not legal for you to drive around on public roads with one controlling your engine in some states. I take no responsibility for the outcome should you install a TEC³ in your car and then discover that it doesn't pass emissions in your area. It is possible to tune a TEC³ installation so that your engine is as clean or cleaner than stock but that requires tuning expertise and knowledge beyond the scope of this installation guide to provide.

I strongly recommend anyone considering upgrading their MR2 Turbo to a TEC³ (or any other EMS for that matter) first contact a local Electromotive dealer who can provide all the required components and aid in the tuning process. I do not recommend anyone attempt this upgrade by themselves unless they have very good-to-excellent mechanical and electrical skills. If you have never soldered and shrink-wrapped wires together, I suggest you sit down with a soldering iron, tubing and matches for a couple of hours and practice making high quality connections that will last the life of the car. I do not believe in crimp connectors and wire taps--they will last for a while and then go flaky one day. You do not want to turn your well-built, reliable Toyota into a heap that you are afraid to drive around in. You will need access to proper tools and location to perform the installation. I suggest that you thoroughly review each section and note down what you will need that you do not have and buy, rent or borrow it before you rip your car apart.

Obtaining a well running properly tuned setup, should you manage to successfully install your unit, will require patience and expertise. Your dealer should be either able to provide this expertise or help you locate someone who has it. The patience you must supply yourself. Do not expect to use my or anyone else's  TEC³ program to safely operate your car as each setup is different. For example, I run 550cc injectors, water injection, upgraded intercooler and an aftermarket exhaust system that makes my MR2 different from probably any other. Running my program will probably result in a blown engine on a stock 3S-GTE setup, so I probably won't give it to you even if you ask nicely. Do not expect me to help you tune your engine--I'm not an expert and I will not be held responsible for the outcome should you be foolish enough to take any tuning advice from me.

You should read through each section here and read the TEC³ installation guide before you embark on your installation. There is a lot of information in the installation guide that you should be familiar with.

The information shown here represents what I believe to be the fastest way to professionally install a TEC³ on an MR2 Turbo.  I discuss several optional things that you can do during your installation but keep in mind that these will increase your installation time if you choose to do them. My own installation differs in some respects because of my peculiar setup.

Well, enough warnings and admonitions. I had a ton of fun with my TEC³ installation and am still having a lot of fun tuning and driving the car around. I hope that things go as well for you if you should decide to undertake this serious upgrade.