You CAN install this unit without the RAM Mount and use the supplied suction cup / windshield mount it comes with. Installation is the same but you do not need the 5' HDMI cord. But the COOL factor is with the Ram Mount. Also out of sight and out of mind. One thing less to worry about when you leave your truck from prying eyes. Also, since the BDGT unit is so small to read, this is a perfect way to watch your engines VITALS at Eye Level keeping it safer to read it.
Follow the Bullydog Instructions it comes with, UPDATE if needed and you'll be good to go on to the next steps:
Tools Used:
Small Flat head to remove the trim surrounding the Driver Side handle
10mm Socket and Rachet to remove the Oh Sh*t Handle
Assorted small Allen Wrenches (forgot what size to use, but easy to figure out)
Test Light
My Install time: 30 Minutes. Your time may vary.
Installation Difficulty?: If you can install an intake system, this should be a walk in the park.
Programming the Unit?: Just YES or NO questions, You can increase you RPM, Speed Limits etc. But i didn't mess around with it. Until you figure it out, just use the basic settings.
My setttings: Performance, 2* degree timing advance, NO WOT. Throttle Adj HIGH.
Once you have your BullyDog / Ram Mount on, you can re-mount the mirror in reverse order. Pull down slightly on the headliner and run the BullyDog 5' HDMI extension. I have a auto dimming mirror so it came with the wire cover, re-install that as well if you have it.
Remove the Driver side handle with a 10mm socket, pull the liner/weather stripping from the door and pull aside the plastic pillar moulding. NOTE: Some trucks come with the Side Air bags so you need to run this between the A-Pillar and the air bags so if they deploy the HDMI cable does not interfere with it. Connect the supplied cable of the BullyDog into the extension cable and run it towards the OBDII Port, Plug in OBDII Adapter Plug into the Port and attach the HDMI Main WireHarness from the BDGT. The OBDII adapter has a switch to power up your unit but you would have to turn if on/off all the time.
I choose to use, The GT/Watch Power Wire. It connects into the OBDII adapter and you run that wire down and behind the A/C unit / Center Console. I used a wire coat hanger to push it thru the backside from the driver to passenger side, Once you push the wire out string it along towards the passenger fuse box compartment.
I had a Test light and choose the RADIO fuse that is controlled by the Key. Pull the fuse with the factory fuse puller, insert the wire and push back the fuse. It's tedious but easy to do and now the BDGT now turns on with the key instead of the switch on the OBDII adapter.
Re-read your BullyDog instruction sheet and/or Retrace your steps, making sure everything in place. It should power up with the key and backlit lighting will change with the lights on.
Put all your panels back in place AFTER checking power and you should be all good to go.
BullyDog BDGT has a driving coach to tell you that you are abusing the power (i.e. wasting gas) and you will see your actual MPG. The settings can be easily changed and you WILL notice a big difference. You DO have the option to shut off the coach and the beeping off. ~I Did. Who drives light footed? Lol
My opinion hands down is the
BullyDog BDGT, though... HyperTech & SuperChips has a comparable item but the coolness factor of the watching all the temperatures at a glance not to mention your MPG (-/+) differs with driving style.