I'm upgrading from my 2005 Class C motorhome with a Ford V10 to either a 2012 Fleetwood Bounder 35H or Thor Hurricane 35C, both equipped with V10 engines. My current Class C has an UPFORD Ultra tune that I installed about five years ago, and I've been extremely satisfied with the performance improvements - better gear holding, reduced downshifting from 5th to 4th to 3rd, lower RPMs, and significantly less engine noise.
UPFORD offers a transfer service where I can move my existing tune to the new motorhome for a fee, but I'm wondering if I should consider switching to a different tuning company instead. The main alternatives I'm looking at are Banks Power and 5 Star Tuning, since these seem to be the three most popular V10 performance tune options for RV applications.
From a cost-effectiveness standpoint, would it make more sense to transfer my current UPFORD tune to the new Class A, or are there compelling reasons to start fresh with Banks or 5 Star? I want to make sure I'm getting the best possible performance and value, especially since all three companies seemed to offer similar benefits when I originally researched this five years ago.
Banks, UPFORD, and 5 Star V10 tunes all deliver similar improvements for RV use. Since you are happy with UPFORD, transfer your existing tune to the new coach. Transfer fee is more cost-effective than buying new tune from different provider.
Since you're already extremely satisfied with your current tune on your 2005 Class C V10 and it's delivering the exact improvements you want (holding gears longer, lower RPMs, reduced noise), there's really no compelling reason to switch to Banks or 5 Star for your new Class A purchase. The 2012 3-valve V10s in both the Fleetwood Bounder 35 and Thor Hurricane 35C will respond similarly well to the tune you're familiar with. For around $200-300 transfer fee (verify current pricing with your tuner), you can move your existing tune and maintain the same excellent performance and support relationship you've built with your tuner over 5 years.
Your research from 5 years ago was accurate - all three major V10 tuners (established tuning companies, Banks, and 5 Star) deliver very similar performance gains because they're all addressing the same fundamental issues with Ford's conservative factory tuning. The stock tune is programmed for worst-case scenarios with low-grade fuel and extreme conditions, leaving significant performance on the table.
Banks Power focuses heavily on marketing and has excellent brand recognition, but their Derringer tuner typically costs $600-800 and doesn't offer significantly better results than other $400-500 solutions. 5 Star Tuning offers custom tunes starting around $400-600 and has good technical support, but again, the actual performance differences are minimal - common gains include similar improvements in horsepower and torque.
The 2012 3-valve V10s in your target Class A units will actually respond even better to tuning than your 2005 3-valve engine did, as Ford improved the engine design but kept the conservative tuning parameters. All three tuners address the same transmission shift points, fuel mapping, and timing advance that create the improvements you've experienced.
The advantage of staying with your current tuner isn't necessarily in raw performance numbers, but in their customer service, installation simplicity, and the fact that you already have an established relationship with proven results on your current V10.
SAFETY WARNING: Always disconnect the negative battery terminal and wait at least 15 minutes before working on any engine control modules to prevent electrical shock and system damage. PCM modifications may void your vehicle warranty and improper installation can cause permanent engine control system damage requiring expensive repairs.
Before making your Class A purchase decision, contact your tuner directly to confirm the transfer process and cost for moving your tune to either the 2012 Bounder or Hurricane. They typically charge $200-300 for tune transfers and will need the VIN of your new RV to create the proper calibration file. Document your current tune's performance baseline by noting specific metrics like highway RPM at 65 mph, typical shift points, and fuel economy.
Research the specific transmission differences between your 2005 and the 2012 models, as the newer units likely have the updated 5R110W transmission with different shift programming. Your tuner will account for this in their tune transfer, but understanding the differences helps set proper expectations.
If you're genuinely curious about alternatives, contact Banks and 5 Star for specific quotes on your target 2012 V10s. Banks typically requires their Derringer module plus iDash display for full functionality, while 5 Star offers mail-in PCM tuning or handheld programmers. Compare total costs including any required hardware or installation complexity.
Consider the timing of your purchase and tune installation. If trading your Class C to the dealer, you'll need to return it to stock tune first, then have your tuner create a new tune for your Class A. If selling privately, you could potentially include the tune as a selling point to another V10 owner.
Contact your tuner's customer service to initiate the tune transfer process, providing them with your current order information and the VIN of your intended Class A purchase. They'll create a return authorization for your current tuning device and prepare the transfer paperwork. This typically takes 2-3 business days once they have all information.
Before removing your current tune, document your Class C's performance with the tune installed - record highway RPM, shift points, and any specific improvements you want to ensure carry over to the new RV. Take photos of the installation location and wiring for reference.
SAFETY WARNING: Ensure the engine is completely cool and the ignition is off before removing any tuning hardware to prevent burns and electrical damage.
Remove the tune from your Class C following the manufacturer's instructions, typically involving unplugging the module. Note that returning the PCM to stock programming requires professional equipment and technical knowledge. Package the tune hardware according to return instructions, usually requiring original packaging and specific shipping methods.
Once you've completed your Class A purchase, provide your tuner with the final VIN, engine code, and transmission information. They'll program your transferred tune for the specific 2012 V10 configuration and ship it back to you, usually within 5-7 business days.
Install the transferred tune on your new Class A following the manufacturer's instructions for the 2012 model year. WARNING: Incorrect tune installation or PCM corruption can cause serious engine damage - verify all connections and follow instructions precisely. The installation process may differ slightly from your 2005 due to PCM location changes and wiring harness updates, but proper instructions should be provided for model-specific installation.
Test drive the newly tuned Class A and compare performance to your documented baseline from the Class C. The 2012 3-valve V10 should show even better results than your 2005, with more aggressive shift points and improved power delivery throughout the RPM range.
Contact your tuner's technical support immediately if the tune transfer doesn't deliver the same performance improvements you experienced on your Class C. Reputable tuners stand behind their transfers and will work with you to optimize the calibration for your specific 2012 Class A configuration.
Consider professional installation assistance if you're uncomfortable with the PCM location or wiring differences in your new Class A compared to your familiar Class C setup. Many RV service centers are experienced with aftermarket tunes and can handle the installation for $100-200 labor.
Reach out to other V10 forums and communities if you want real-world comparisons between tuners on 2012 Class A units specifically. While performance differences are minimal, you might find user experiences that highlight specific advantages of one tuner over another for your exact use case.
Get professional diagnosis if your new Class A exhibits any unusual symptoms after tune installation, such as rough idle, check engine lights, or transmission issues. While rare with reputable tuners, 2012 model years can have specific quirks that require custom calibration adjustments.
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