Thread: AEM guys, need help with vvl...

Alright guys, very simple. How are you guys switching the vvl solenoids? I had them powered with a 12v signal and used a switched ground output to activate them. Issue is my car breaks up and has insane spikes in duty cycle when the cross over happens then it clears up and runs fine. Has anyone used the HS1 output to activate and ground the solenoids to the block/chassis? This is my last issue to fix before hitting the rollers. Any input is appreciated. Thanks!

give the solenoids 12v(battery) constant and switch gnd. I use the low side driver for injector 6 for my vvl. Its also a good idea to use a relay(weak trigger to strong trigger) between the ems and the solenoids. Been running like this for 3years and my vvl has zero issues. Also make sure to configure the output so it comes on by rpm and ignores temp and throttle.

Yeah I know I have used injector 6 before but still ran into issues. I am going to try a different set of solenoids so hoping this will resolve the issue. I'll report back.

make sure to use a relay between the ems and the solenoids. the on board driver burns out very easy. if your using a series 1 ems they have some funny gnd issues.

Currently running a series 2. Just basic relay? First time hearing of that. A lot of guys I noticed ran it straight up.

agreed. Mine would always say the voltage was a volt lower than it really was.

I noticed with the greddy mss that it would drop the cams in and out due to the on board relay. Yes you should be able to run them straight off the ems but I have seen enough outputs get burned for various reasons. a relay is cheap insurance and it ensures strong signal gets to the item being activated. its the same concept of running a stabilizer relay on your fuel pump. any 30amp or 40amp 12 volt relay will do.

Definitely going to look into doing that. Swapped new solenoids over and car still breaks up on the high cam. Currently talking back and forth with some of the techs over at AEM to try and figure out whats causing this misfire. Leaning towards the ecu being fucked. Something is not adding up.

I ran my vvl solenoids separate on my aem. Have u tried doing that?

I haven't but I am going through some other issues with it that I am trying to sort. At this rate, it looks like a potential part out. We haven't been having luck up here.